The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to bank staff against aiding internet fraudsters by creating multiple accounts or tipping off customers about investigations.
Addressing bank compliance officers in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, the Acting Zonal Director of EFCC in Rivers State, Assistant Commander Adebayo Adeniyi, urged financial institutions to help strengthen the fight against fraud and corruption. He advised bank staff to avoid compromising investigations by protecting their banks at the expense of the nation’s interests.
Adeniyi called for greater collaboration between the EFCC and banks, stressing the importance of proper customer identification, updating customer records, and adhering to “Know Your Customer” (KYC) principles. He explained that such measures are crucial for effective investigation and prosecution of fraud cases.
He highlighted that banks play a critical role in curbing financial crimes and should enforce ethical conduct and honesty when dealing with customers. He also reminded the officers that failing to comply with KYC guidelines could lead to sanctions.
Edward Keto, one of the compliance officers present, expressed appreciation for the meeting, acknowledging that it would help the bank staff deal with customers more professionally and support anti-fraud efforts.
