From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) has sought collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to combat transnational fraud and maritime malpractices.
This development, according to the Head of Media and Publicity for EFCC Dele Oyewale, was announced during a courtesy visit by INTERPOL’s Maritime Security Unit to the EFCC’s Lagos Directorate on Friday, January 17, 2025.
Mr. Ademola Olude, Criminal Intelligence Officer from INTERPOL’s Maritime Security Unit, led the delegation, which included four members from Ghana.
Olude commended the EFCC’s vigorous anti-corruption efforts, emphasizing the need for collaboration to combat transnational crimes.
The Maritime Security Unit is implementing a project called “Agwe,” aimed at providing capacity-building among West African member countries, particularly in investigations and information exchange in the maritime domain. The project is running in 11 West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal.
Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE1 Michael Wetkas, appreciated the delegation’s visit and reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to fighting economic and financial crimes.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration with fellow law enforcement agencies, particularly in combating cybercrime.
Wetkas noted that many internet fraudsters have fled to neighboring countries, making cross-border collaboration imperative. The EFCC is willing to partner with INTERPOL to take the fight against corruption across the West African region.