The Nigeria Police Force has revealed that forensic intelligence and investigation into an alleged smuggling of new bank notes totalling N74,950,000 uncovered an attempted theft of N43,160,000 by some police officers involved in the case.

ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, clarified that the incident, which occurred on August 26, 2023, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, has been thoroughly investigated.

The officers involved, including DSP Peter Ejike, Inspector Ekende Edwin, Inspector Esther Okafor, and Sergeant Talabi Kayode, were found culpable and have been sanctioned.

The investigation revealed that the officers unlawfully arrested Andrew Ejah, an employee of FATFAD Cargo Nigeria Limited, who was transporting the cash on behalf of clients. They detained Ejah at Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, and misrepresented the recovered amount as N31,790,000.

Forensic intelligence showed that the officers conspired to steal N43,160,000 of the money, tasking one of them to move the cash out of the Federal Capital Territory for hiding.

The officers then resorted to various tactics to cover their tracks, including spreading false narratives on social media platforms.

ACP Adejobi stated, "These officers have been suspended, being found culpable of serious misconduct, tampering with exhibits, abuse of office, corrupt practice, illegal duty, and acts unbecoming of a police officer".

The Force Public Relations Officer emphasized that the affected officers will be prosecuted upon conclusion of due legal and administrative procedures.

He urged the public and media to refrain from spreading false narratives aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Inspector-General of Police.