Bawa Usman Kaltungo, the Acting Zonal Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Kaduna, has expressed concern over the growing prevalence of visa racketeering, cybercrimes, and illegal mining in the state. He has called on journalists to help raise awareness about the dangers of engaging in such criminal activities.
Kaltungo made these comments during a courtesy visit to the executive of the Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Friday, accompanied by his management team. In his address, he acknowledged the continued support and cooperation of the NUJ, thanking the union for its collaboration with the EFCC over the years and requesting that this support be maintained for the betterment of society.
The EFCC Director further urged journalists in the state to ensure that their reports on the Commission’s activities were fair and accurate to avoid tarnishing its image. He emphasised the importance of a strong partnership between the EFCC and the NUJ, which he described as essential to combating corruption and criminality.
Kaltungo also highlighted the alarming rise in cybercrimes, particularly among the youth, noting that the EFCC was developing new strategies to curb the spread of such criminal activities. He expressed concern over the long-term implications of youth involvement in corruption, warning that if this trend continued, corrupt individuals could eventually occupy positions of leadership, stalling societal progress.
Another issue that Kaltungo singled out was visa racketeering, particularly during the Hajj pilgrimage and the annual Baban Sallah festivities. He pointed out that many people had been deceived by travel agents promising visas and passports, only for them to lose their hard-earned money. The EFCC Director urged married couples to advise their peers to steer clear of such illegal activities, making it clear that no one, regardless of their marital status, is exempt from the law.
In addition to these issues, Kaltungo addressed the growing concern of illegal mining in the region, describing it as closely linked to terrorism and banditry. He stressed that mining activities must be authorised by the federal government, and any individual or company wishing to mine must obtain the necessary licences from the Ministry of Mines. He warned that engaging in illegal mining without proper documentation is against the law and could lead to serious consequences.
In response, Abdulgafar Alabelewe, the Chairman of the NUJ Kaduna State Council, assured the EFCC Director of the union’s continued support in the fight against financial crimes. Alabelewe reiterated that the NUJ is committed to working alongside the EFCC and will always be available to assist in educating the public and promoting a crime-free society.
