The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised serious concerns over the increasing cases of cybercrime, visa racketeering, and illegal mining in Kaduna State. The Commission is now seeking the support of journalists in raising public awareness and curbing these growing threats.
Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC in Kaduna, Bawa Usman Kaltungo, made this known on Friday during a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council. Kaltungo, who was recently posted to the zone, visited alongside his management team to strengthen ties with the media and seek deeper collaboration in the fight against financial crimes.
Speaking during the visit, Kaltungo expressed appreciation for the NUJ’s continued support over the years and called for even greater cooperation moving forward. He warned that the rise in cybercrime, especially among young people, poses a major risk to the future of the country.
“You are going to see a renewed vigour in the fight against corruption, especially cybercrime. It’s alarming how our youths are getting involved. If they are the leaders of tomorrow and today they’re already corrupt, what future are we building?” he asked.
He said the Commission is working on new strategies to tackle cybercrime before it becomes more widespread, stressing that allowing it to grow will hurt Nigeria’s development.
Kaltungo also raised alarm over the growing issue of visa racketeering in Kaduna, particularly during religious pilgrimages such as the lesser Hajj. According to him, many unsuspecting victims, including married women, have been duped by fraudulent travel agents who promise visas and passports but fail to deliver.
“People are losing their hard-earned money. And to make it worse, even married women are getting involved. We are not happy to arrest any married woman, but the law does not give immunity based on gender or marital status. If you commit a crime, you will face the consequences,” he warned.
He called on families to educate one another and avoid being part of illegal activities that could attract the attention of the EFCC. He also urged the public to verify the legitimacy of travel agents and ensure proper documentation before making payments.
The EFCC boss further expressed concern over the rise in illegal mining activities in the region. He explained that mining is regulated by the federal government, and anyone interested in engaging in the business must obtain a proper license from the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development.
“Illegal mining has links to terrorism and banditry. It’s a serious issue. Anyone found mining without the proper documents will be arrested and prosecuted. We are not going to tolerate it anymore,” he stated.
Kaltungo highlighted the importance of media partnership in educating the public about the dangers of these crimes. He urged journalists to reach out to the EFCC for balanced reporting and to help prevent the spread of false information that could harm the Commission’s image.
In response, the Chairman of the NUJ Kaduna State Council, Abdulgafar Alabelewe, pledged the Union’s continued support for the Commission’s work. He assured the EFCC of the media’s willingness to assist in public enlightenment and in promoting transparency and accountability in society.
“As media professionals, we have a duty to support efforts that protect the public and hold people accountable. The NUJ in Kaduna has always had a strong relationship with the EFCC, and we will continue to work together,” Alabelewe said.
He also assured Kaltungo that the NUJ would always be available to assist the EFCC in its public awareness campaigns and urged both parties to maintain open lines of communication.
The visit is part of the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships with stakeholders and reinforce its mission to tackle economic and financial crimes across the country, especially in areas where such crimes are rising.
