The new Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s directorate in Anambra has begun operations, with its head, Atiba Ofen-Imu, seeking a partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. The directorate covers Anambra and Imo.

Mr Ofen-Imu paid a courtesy visit to the NDLEA commander in Anambra, Charles Onubogu, to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and coordinated efforts to combat economic and financial crimes, a statement by the anti-graft agency said on Wednesday.

The visit was also aimed at strengthening efforts at tackling drug-related offences within the zone.

The directorate is expected to improve response time in the fight against corruption, money laundering, property fraud, internet fraud, and other financial crimes.

Mr Ofen-Imu noted that there was a  strong link between financial crimes and drug trafficking, and that effective collaboration between the EFCC and NDLEA remained critical in dismantling organised criminal networks.

Mr Onubogu congratulated Mr Ofen-Imu on the successful take-off of the directorate, describing the development as timely and strategic for strengthening the state’s security architecture.

Mr Onubogu reaffirmed the command’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the EFCC in intelligence gathering, investigation, and the prosecution of suspects.

The two agencies reiterated their commitment to professionalism, transparency and a united front in safeguarding the socio-economic stability of Anambra and Imo states.

They also pledged to consolidate existing partnerships and explore new strategies to curb criminal activities across the zone, he said.

(NAN)