Nigeria has suspended one of its most highly respected police officers after he was indicted in the US on money laundering charges. Deputy commissioner Abba Kyari is accused of taking bribes from Nigerian Instagram celebrity Ray Hushpuppi, who has pleaded guilty to money laundering in the US. Mr Kyari has denied the allegations.
The allegations shocked many Nigerians as he was known as a "super cop" who went after criminals. Court documents filed in California said the 37-year-old Hushpuppi's crimes cost victims almost $24m (£17m). Hushpuppi, whose real name is Ramon Abbas, posed as real estate developer in Dubai and posted photos of his lavish lifestyle on Instagram, where he had 2.5m followers. He was charged in the US following his extradition from Dubai last year.
Kristi Johnson, acting director of the FBI's Los Angeles office, said Hushpuppi was one of the "most high-profile money launderers in the world". Nigeria's Police Service Commission - which is in charge of disciplining officers - said Mr Kyari would remain suspended pending the outcome of investigations. Mr Kyari described the allegations as ''false'' and said his "hands are clean''.
Square to acquire Afterpay, Australian buy now, pay later platform for $29 billion
Big News! Now Sonu Sood to lead India's special athlete team, became brand ambassador
