The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted $1,154,900 and SR135,900 (Saudi Riyals) at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in Kano. The seized amount totals approximately N1,847,493,710, based on current exchange rates. The currency was discovered concealed in palm date packages during a routine baggage check of a passenger arriving from Saudi Arabia. The suspect and the seized currency have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
Meanwhile, in South Korea, domestic banks reported a net profit increase of 5.5% in 2024, reaching KRW 22.4 trillion. This growth occurred despite incurring KRW 1.4 trillion in compensation expenses related to equity-linked securities (ELS). The rise in net profit was primarily driven by a decrease in bad debt expenses, which fell by KRW 3.1 trillion. Interest income nearly reached KRW 60 trillion. The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) emphasized the need for banks to maintain loss-absorbing capacity amid internal and external uncertainties.