The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused banks in the country of leaking probe details to fraudsters.
The commission however, cautioned their compliance officers against unauthorized disclosure of the commission’s investigation activities and requests made to their customers.
The call to action came from the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Olanipekun Olukoyede, who expressed concern over the detrimental impact of such leaks on the commission’s efforts to combat financial crimes.
In a statement released by the Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Olukoyede decried the unfortunate support fraudsters often receive from the banking sector, posing significant challenges to the EFCC’s operations.
Speaking through the Acting Zonal Director of the Ibadan Zonal Command, Hauwa Ringim, during a stakeholders’ meeting with compliance officers of banks in Oyo State, Olukoyede emphasized the detrimental effects of compliance officers divulging information about EFCC’s investigative activities to clients.
He highlighted how such actions not only jeopardize ongoing investigations but also lead to delays in corruption cases being brought before the law courts.
Olukoyede urged compliance officers to respond promptly to letters received from the Commission, providing certified true copies of relevant documents, including transaction instruments of beneficiaries or sources.
This, he emphasized, would expedite the investigation process and lead to a timely conclusion.
The EFCC chairman addressed the issue of illegal dealings and trading in naira with Point-of-Sale (POS) operators, calling for an immediate halt to such practices.
He pointed out the disparity between the limited withdrawal amounts allowed at ATMs for Nigerians compared to the substantial sums evident in the possession of POS operators.
Olukoyede deemed this situation unfair to Nigerians and emphasized the need to combat it vigorously.
Assuring compliance officers of the commission’s unwavering support, Olukoyede reiterated their significance as stakeholders in the fight against economic and financial crimes.
He emphasized the collaborative effort required to uphold integrity and accountability within the banking sector, crucial for safeguarding Nigeria’s financial system.
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