Binance Executive Detained for Tax Evasion and Other Offenses Escapes Custody in Nigeria

According to a recent Premium Times report, Nadeem Anjarwalla, one of the two Binance executives detained in Nigeria for alleged tax evasion and other offenses, has escaped from custody. Anjarwalla, aged 38 and holding British and Kenyan citizenship, reportedly fled from an Abuja guest house on March 22, where he and his colleague were being detained. Despite entering Nigeria with a British passport, which remains in Nigerian custody, he is said to have departed using a Kenyan passport. Authorities are investigating his escape and attempting to ascertain his intended destination to bring him back into custody.

An immigration official stated that Anjarwalla fled Nigeria using a Kenyan passport, although they are working to determine how he obtained it as he had no other travel documents besides his British passport when detained. Sources suggest that the executives were held in a guest house with various privileges, including access to telephones, which Anjarwalla may have used to plan his escape.

When contacted for comment, the Head of Strategic Communication at the Office of the National Security Adviser said he would inquire further but has not provided a response at this time. Anjarwalla, Binance's Africa regional manager, and his colleague were detained upon their arrival in Nigeria on February 26, 2024. Charges were filed against them, leading to a court order for their remand. Binance has faced legal challenges in Nigeria, with the government alleging tax evasion and other financial crimes.

Resources:

Premium Times