The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has confirmed the escape of Nadeem Anjarwalla, the Binance regional manager for Africa.
According to a statement by Zakari Mijinyawa, head of strategic communication at ONSA, initial investigations reveal that Mr. Anjarwalla left Nigeria using a smuggled passport.
The statement further mentioned that the personnel responsible for Anjarwalla’s custody have been apprehended, and a comprehensive inquiry is underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding his escape from lawful detention.
Anjarwalla reportedly absconded from the Abuja guest house where he and a colleague were being held on March 22.
It’s stated that he took advantage of guards escorting him to a nearby mosque for Ramadan prayers. Although he departed from Abuja using a Middle Eastern airline, the means by which he boarded an international flight with his British passport remains unknown.
The ONSA stated, “Upon receiving this report, immediate action was taken by this office, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, government departments, and the international community, to locate and detain the suspect.”
They also mentioned ongoing efforts with Interpol to obtain an international arrest warrant for Anjarwalla.
The statement emphasized that the Nigerian government has been investigating money laundering and terrorism financing activities on the Binance platform.
Anjarwalla, holding British and Kenyan citizenships and serving as Binance’s Africa regional manager, was undergoing trial in Nigerian courts until his escape.
He fled while under a 14-day remand order, with his next court appearance scheduled for April 4, 2024.
The public and international community are urged to provide any relevant information that could aid law enforcement agencies in apprehending Anjarwalla.
