EFCC and Australian Police Team Up to Fight Cybercrime

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have signed a new agreement to work together against cybercrime and financial crimes that cross borders.

On Wednesday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale announced the signing at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.

Leilani Bin-Juda, the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, praised EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, and his team for their long-term work with the Australian police.

"Chairman, I want to say a big thank you to you, your leadership, your agency and your amazing officers who have worked closely with the Australian Federal Police," she said.

Bin-Juda highlighted that the partnership has included sharing technology, intelligence, and professional advice, which has helped both countries.

She pointed out that cybercrime is a global issue and added that Nigeria is a key player in fighting it in Africa.

"Cyber matters are affecting many countries, and Nigeria is one of those leading countries in the region. Other African countries look to Nigeria for leadership in this aspect. I commend you for your efforts," she stated.

Sandra Booth, an Assistant Commissioner with the Australian Federal Police, shared that the partnership began in 2004. It has assisted investigations into cybercrime, email scams, and financial offences.

She said the new agreement will create more chances for joint investigations and sharing of expertise.

"We are very grateful for this relationship that we have with you. I look forward to the new MoU providing new opportunities for us to work together, open new horizons, strengthen our relationship and promote professional development between our organisations," she explained.

Booth called the signing an important step for both agencies and expressed happiness to formalize their future cooperation plans.

EFCC Chairman Olukoyede said that working together internationally is now necessary, as financial crimes often cross borders.

"We have discovered that financial crimes take a transnational dimension. What affects Nigeria inevitably affects Australia. That is why countries have to come together because criminals always work together," he mentioned.

He added that the agreement will help with training, support, and sharing information, keeping in mind the laws of both countries.

"There is a network of criminals, and for us to fight this network, we must also network as countries that are serious about the fight against such crimes," he said.

Olukoyede also noted that this partnership will help both countries, no matter where the criminals operate.

The EFCC and the Australian Federal Police had earlier signed an agreement in April 2012 to boost cooperation against transnational crimes.

During the ceremony on Wednesday, the Australian Federal Police honored four EFCC officers for their skills and commitment during a tough investigation.

The awardees were Assistant Commander of the EFCC II Abba Sambo Usman, Assistant Commander of the EFCC II Olufemi Olukinni, Assistant Commander of the EFCC II Omewa Pius Nnaemeka, and Inspector of the EFCC I Owolabi Jude Oyarekhua.