The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday closed its defence in the contentious ownership of N49 million intercepted at the Kaduna International Airport on March 13, 2017.

Counsel to EFCC Joshua Saidi informed Justice S. M Shuaibu of the Federal High Court Kaduna, that the Commission by presenting its only witness had closed its case.

In his testimony, the defence witness identified his sworn affidavit and adopted same; while counsel to the five plaintiffs E. I Dapo didn’t object to its admissibility.

The court further admitted a Certified True Copy of teller depositing the said sum in the custody of the CBN.

It will be recalled that operatives of the EFCC on March. 13, 2017 had intercepted five 750kg bags filled with crispy naira notes at the Kaduna International Airport.

Further investigation revealed the bags contained a total sum of N49 million.

Upon an exparte application for an order of interim forfeiture which was granted by the Federal High Court Kaduna in respect to the intercepted cash, five individuals came forth claiming ownership.

They are: Oyebanji Plaits Steve, Taiye Omoniyi Oluwaleke, Risikat Taimiyu Titilayo, Fausat Oni, and Joshua Kisabo.

Justice Shuaibu has adjourned the matter to June 28, 2018 to allow for the adoption of final written addresses and reply on points of law.

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