A Nigerian court has ordered the permanent forfeiture of 36 luxury cars, suspected of being stolen from Canada, according to a recent ruling reported by Channels Television. The exotic vehicles, recovered from auto shops across Lagos, were initially subject to a temporary seizure in November 2023.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, spearheaded the case. Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos granted the final forfeiture after no claimants emerged following a public notice published in a national newspaper, as reported by Vanguard News.
The recovered vehicles include high-end models like Lexus RX 350s, Toyota Tacoma trucks, and a Range Rover, according to Leadership News. The estimated value of the car haul remains undisclosed.
The case raises concerns about a potential international car theft ring targeting Nigeria. While details on the alleged Canadian origin of the vehicles haven’t been publicly confirmed, authorities in both countries are likely to collaborate on further investigations.
“This ruling sends a strong message,” EFCC spokesperson Rasheed Adeeko told reporters, according to an interview. “We will continue to crack down on all forms of illegal activity, including international car theft rings that target Nigeria.”
The saga has sparked public debate. Some Nigerians expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, commending the EFCC’s efforts to combat crime. However, others voiced concerns about the lengthy legal process and the potential for misuse of the forfeited vehicles.
“Transparency is key,” said social commentator Aisha Buhari in a social media post. “The public deserves to know how these cars will be used by the government.”
The Nigerian government is yet to announce its plans for the forfeited vehicles. Previous instances of seized assets have seen them allocated for public use or auctioned, with the proceeds directed towards government coffers.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the global reach of car theft operations and the challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling them. As international cooperation intensifies, similar stories of large-scale car smuggling attempts being thwarted are likely to emerge.