The Nigeria Police Force has secured two major court victories, including the permanent forfeiture of assets worth more than ₦2 billion linked to an alleged fraud and money laundering case, while also obtaining judicial backing for its authority to carry out criminal investigations without interference.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said the judgments were secured through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, and represent significant milestones in the fight against financial crimes.
According to the police, on May 14, 2026, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, granted a permanent forfeiture order on assets belonging to Alonge Opeyemi Yetunde and her accomplices in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/274/2026.
The assets, valued at over ₦2 billion, include bank accounts, digital wallets, vehicles, and landed properties located across Lagos, Osun and Delta states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
Police said the principal suspect is currently being held at the Suleja Correctional Custodial Centre and is facing charges bordering on fraud and money laundering.
In a separate ruling delivered on May 13, 2026, Justice Bello Kawu dismissed a ₦100 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by United States-based suspect David Imole Averehi against the Nigeria Police Force and the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of INTERPOL.
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The suit, marked FCT/HC/CV/4119/45, sought to challenge police actions in an ongoing investigation.
However, Justice Kawu held that the courts could not be used to obstruct lawful police duties or shield individuals suspected of criminal activities from prosecution.
The ruling cleared the way for the INTERPOL NCB Abuja to continue legal proceedings against Averehi over allegations of obtaining money under false pretences.
The police described the judgments as a reaffirmation of law enforcement powers and pledged to continue working with international partners to combat financial crimes and safeguard Nigeria’s economic system.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to leveraging international partnerships and the full force of the law to pursue financial criminals and protect Nigeria’s economic integrity,” the statement said.
