_By Adesakin Adefemi
November 25, 2025_
The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has successfully repatriated Acar Huseyin, a 61-year-old Turkish national, to Turkey to serve a 14-year, 8-month, and 10-day prison sentence for fraud.
He was convicted earlier this year by the _Istanbul Anadolu High Criminal Court on multiple charges of orchestrating sophisticated financial scams, but fled shortly after judgment, entering Nigeria via the Middle East.
In July 2025, INTERPOL Ankara issued a Red Notice, urging member countries to locate and arrest the fugitive. Responding swiftly, INTERPOL NCB Abuja launched discreet, intelligence-led operations, culminating in Huseyin’s arrest in Abuja.
Following meticulous coordination with Turkish authorities and completion of legal documentation, he was handed over to officials in Istanbul on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun lauded the INTERPOL unit for their “_unwavering professionalism_” and reaffirmed Nigeria’s stance: “_We will not serve as a refuge for fugitives or escaped convicts. We honour international obligations, strengthen police cooperation, and combat transnational crime.”
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, added: “This handover sends a clear message—Nigeria won’t shelter escapees. Global justice prevails.”
The operation underscores Nigeria’s intensified fight against cross-border financial crimes and fugitive evasion, reinforcing bilateral ties with Turkey. While details of Huseyin’s schemes remain undisclosed, authorities stress the case sets a precedent.
This repatriation aligns with Nigeria’s efforts to exit the FATF grey list, boosting its anti-finance crime drive. “No hiding place for fraudsters,” Egbetokun warned.
The NPF vows continued collaboration with global partners, pursuing justice beyond borders. Turkey now pursues the sentence; Nigeria scores a law-enforcement win.
