By Milcah Tanimu
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has issued a public appeal for assistance in locating Mr. Nadeem Anjarwalla, an executive manager at Binance for the African region, who has escaped from lawful custody.
Zakari Mijinyawa, Head of Strategic Communication at the Office of the National Security Adviser, announced the launch of a manhunt for Anjarwalla, urging both the Nigerian public and the international community to provide any relevant information to aid law enforcement agencies in his apprehension.
Anjarwalla, a British-Kenyan national and Binance’s Africa regional manager, was under investigation by the Nigerian government for alleged involvement in money laundering and terrorism financing transactions conducted through the Binance currency exchange platform. He had been remanded in custody pending trial by Nigerian courts but absconded while under a 14-day remand order, scheduled to appear in court on April 4, 2024.
According to ONSA, Anjarwalla fled Nigeria using a smuggled passport, prompting security agencies to collaborate with Interpol to obtain an international arrest warrant. Investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his escape, with personnel responsible for his custody already detained pending further inquiry.
Anjarwalla’s escape comes amid ongoing legal proceedings against him and Binance, following their detention upon arrival in Nigeria on February 26, 2024. Allegations of tax evasion and other charges have been leveled against them, leading to heightened scrutiny of the cryptocurrency exchange and its executives.
The Nigerian government, through ONSA, has emphasized its commitment to apprehending Anjarwalla and ensuring justice is served in the investigation into Binance’s activities in Nigeria.
Leave a Reply