The Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a full-scale investigation into the activities of a 31-year-old trader, Oduburu Lucy Oluchi (also known as Eze Chiamaka Lucy), following her arrest for allegedly possessing and attempting to circulate counterfeit currency.
The suspect was apprehended with a total of ₦192,000 in fake ₦1,000 denominations, marked by a suspicious pattern of recurring serial numbers.
Market Bust and Multi-Agency Handover
The incident began on December 23, 2025, at the Eke Nibo Market in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State. Alert traders reportedly caught Oluchi while she was attempting to use the fraudulent notes to purchase goods.
Following her initial detention by the Agunechemba Quasi Security outfit (a local vigilante group), she was transferred to the Department of State Services (DSS). The EFCC officially took custody of the suspect on December 29, 2025, to lead the financial crimes investigation.
The “Six-Serial Number” Trail
A forensic examination of the seized cash by the Commission revealed a blatant lack of variety in the “currency” production. The 192 notes were found to share only six distinct serial numbers:
- A/33 334233: 25 notes
- B/33 334432: 30 notes
- A/83 353504: 51 notes
- A/29 894433: 43 notes
- A/29 894434: 42 notes
- A29/ 898248: 1 note
Legal Implications
The EFCC stated that the alleged acts violate Section 151 of the Criminal Code as well as Sections 4 and 5 of the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act. These laws carry stringent penalties for those found guilty of undermining the nation’s monetary stability through forgery.
Oluchi remains in custody and is expected to be arraigned in court immediately upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.
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