The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja, has repatriated a 61-year-old Turkish fugitive to Turkey to serve his outstanding prison sentence.
The fugitive, who was convicted of fraud by the Istanbul Anadolu High Criminal Court earlier this year, fled Turkey shortly after his conviction to evade a sentence of 14 years, eight months and ten days.
According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, he subsequently travelled through the Middle East before arriving in Nigeria.
In July 2025, INTERPOL NCB Ankara issued a Red Notice requesting member countries to locate and apprehend the fugitive.
Acting on this request, INTERPOL NCB Abuja launched discreet, intelligence-led operations that culminated in the fugitive’s arrest in the Nigerian capital.
Following the completion of necessary documentation and in coordination with relevant international partners, he was repatriated to Istanbul to commence his sentence.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, commended the INTERPOL unit for its professionalism, emphasising that Nigeria will not serve as a haven for fugitives or escaped convicts.
He reiterated the Nigerian Police Force’s commitment to fulfilling international obligations, strengthening police-to-police cooperation, and supporting global efforts to combat transnational crime.
Linus Aleke
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