The Nigeria Police Force has successfully arrested and sent back to Turkey a 61-year-old Turkish national, Acar Huseyin, who was on the run after being convicted for fraud.
Operation and Arrest
Police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the operation on Tuesday. He revealed that Acar Huseyin was convicted by the Istanbul Anadolu High Criminal Court and received a prison sentence of 14 years, eight months, and 10 days. The convict fled Turkey immediately after the judgment to avoid serving his time.
Hundeyin detailed that the fugitive travelled through several countries in the Middle East before finally entering Nigeria. In July 2025, INTERPOL's National Central Bureau (NCB) in Ankara issued a Red Notice, calling on member countries to find and arrest Huseyin.
Acting on this international alert, INTERPOL NCB Abuja launched a discreet, intelligence-driven operation. This professional effort led to the eventual capture of Huseyin in the nation's capital, Abuja.
Repatriation and Official Statements
After finalizing all required documentation and working closely with international partners, Huseyin was repatriated to Istanbul to begin his prison term.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the INTERPOL unit for what he called a highly professional operation. He strongly stated that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives or escaped convicts.
He further emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force is dedicated to fulfilling its international duties. This commitment includes enhancing police-to-police cooperation and backing worldwide initiatives to fight transnational crime.
