INTERPOL Arrests Fugitive Briton Involved In  P&ID Scam

In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing saga surrounding the $9.6 billion P&ID scam, the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) has apprehended a key figure, Mr. James Nolan, in Italy….READ ALSO

Nolan, an Irish national and director of Process and Industrial Development (P&ID) Ltd, had been on the run since 2022 after jumping bail in Nigeria.

Nolan’s arrest, which occurred on January 27th, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the global effort to bring those responsible for the alleged scam to justice. Sources indicate that he was apprehended while visiting his wife, an Italian national, shedding light on the global reach of law enforcement agencies in tackling transnational crimes.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria has confirmed the arrest, expressing its intention to pursue Nolan’s extradition back to Nigeria to stand trial. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to liaise with INTERPOL to facilitate this process, ensuring that Nolan faces the charges against him in court.

Mr. Paul Erokoro, SAN, legal counsel to Nolan, acknowledged the reports of his client’s arrest, indicating that while he had not spoken directly with Nolan, he had received information suggesting the arrest had indeed taken place. This development underscores the gravity of the allegations against Nolan and the determination of authorities to hold him accountable for his alleged role in the P&ID scandal.

Nolan’s involvement in the controversial Gas Supply Processing Agreement (GSPA) signed in 2010 has been a focal point of investigations. Despite initially pleading not guilty to the charges, Nolan’s failure to appear in court for trial led to the revocation of his bail and the issuance of a bench warrant for his arrest.

With Nolan now in custody, legal proceedings are expected to intensify as Nigerian authorities seek to unravel the complexities of the P&ID scam. The arrest serves as a reminder of the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies worldwide in combating financial crimes and ensuring that justice is served, regardless of geographic boundaries.