Looters Now Hiding Money In Abandoned Houses – EFCC Chairman

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission says due to the current anti-corruption war, big looters have changed tactics. The no longer keep money in banks; they now hide cash in their abandoned houses.

Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, said this at a workshop titled, the ‘Role of Professionals in the Fight Against Corruption’ in Abuja on Friday.

His words, “People are now scared of keeping monies in banks, as it can be traced easily. Monies are now kept in abandoned houses in the country.”

He also charged bureau de change operators and financial institutions to desist from being used as conduit pipes to launder money.

According to him, "BDCs move Billions in a day and there is no proper documentation of money laundered. I appeal to the BDCs to stop that, as we will begin to prosecute bureau de change operators to serve as deterrent. Bankers are also involved in corrupt acts, as they don’t carry out due diligence.’’

Magu charged professional bodies in the country to join hands with the anti-graft agency in the fight against all forms of corruption and economic crimes.

He added, “Instead of conniving with people to launder the proceeds of corruption, I beg you to join hands with the EFCC to fight corruption.

“Many professionals celebrate criminality by doing a lot to foster corruption, which adds more to money laundering. I don’t intend to criticise the work of professionals, but to solicit their support in order to make Nigeria better for the younger generation.’’