In a major breakthrough in the fight against financial crimes, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has obtained a court order to freeze 1,146 bank accounts linked to individuals and companies suspected of foreign exchange fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing.
The Federal High Court in Abuja granted the interim order on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, following an application by the EFCC.
The accounts, which belong to various individuals and companies, including those in agri-business, logistics, microfinance, and engineering, will be frozen for 90 days pending the conclusion of investigations and possible prosecution.
According to the EFCC, the accounts were identified through a preliminary investigation, which revealed that they were used to illegally manipulate the value of the naira and launder proceeds from unlawful activities. The commission is working to crack down on financial crimes and illegal activities in Nigeria.
The matter has been adjourned to July 23, 2024, for further mention. This development is a significant milestone in the EFCC’s efforts to combat financial crimes and bring perpetrators to justice.