Nigeria Launches Manhunt For Fleeing Binance Executive, Seeks INTERPOL's International Arrest Warrant For Suspect
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has confirmed the escape of Nadeem Anjarwalla, a detained executive of Binance, a cryptocurrency exchange platform, from custody. According to Zakari U. Mijinyawa, the Head of Strategic Communication at ONSA, Anjarwalla managed to flee the country using a smuggled passport.
Anjarwalla's escape occurred under peculiar circumstances. While being detained in Abuja during the ongoing Ramadan fast, security guards accompanying him to a nearby mosque for prayers reportedly allowed him to escape. Upon learning of the incident, ONSA swiftly initiated efforts to apprehend the suspect, collaborating closely with relevant security agencies, government departments, and international entities.
Part of the strategic response involves engaging INTERPOL to secure an international arrest warrant for Anjarwalla, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. The focus on international cooperation underscores the gravity of the offense and the imperative to prevent further flight or evasion of justice. Furthermore, it signals Nigeria's commitment to upholding the rule of law and combating transnational crime.
Anjarwalla, who holds British and Kenyan nationalities, served as Binance's Africa regional manager. Prior to his escape, he was undergoing legal proceedings in Nigerian courts related to investigations into money laundering and terrorism financing activities linked to the Binance platform. Notably, Anjarwalla escaped while under a 14-day remand order by a Nigerian court and was due to appear before the court on April 4, 2024.
As the manhunt intensifies, the Nigerian government has urged the public and the international community to provide any relevant information that could aid law enforcement agencies in apprehending the suspect. The collaborative effort underscores the seriousness with which Nigeria views the escape and its determination to ensure accountability and uphold the integrity of its legal processes.
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