The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested three persons over the alleged abuse of the Nigerian currency in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The suspects, identified as Adam Muhammad, Muhammad Muhammad and Bashir Musa, were apprehended after a video surfaced on social media showing them allegedly using a ₦500 note to wipe nasal discharge.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, disclosed that the viral footage prompted an investigation by the commission’s Maiduguri Zonal Directorate, which led to the arrest of the trio within the metropolis.
Oyewale said the suspects are currently being held at the commission’s detention facility in Maiduguri as investigations continue.
He added that they would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the probe.
“The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the EFCC has arrested three individuals over alleged mutilation of the Naira.
The suspects were tracked and apprehended following a viral video in which they were seen mishandling a ₦500 note.
They are currently under investigation and will be charged to court in due course,” the statement noted.
The latest arrest comes amid intensified enforcement of laws prohibiting the abuse and defacement of the national currency.
In recent weeks, the anti-graft agency has stepped up actions against individuals accused of violating provisions of the law on the proper handling of the Naira, including the arrest of a Kannywood actor, Saminu Inuwa, over a similar allegation.
The commission said the renewed crackdown is part of efforts to safeguard the integrity and sanctity of the country’s legal tender.