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NiDCOM CAUTIONS NIGERIANS AGAINST TRAVELLING WITH LASER GADGETS AT SWISS AIRPORTS 08-07-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM has cautioned Nigerians travelling to or through Switzerland to avoid carrying laser pointers at their airports.
This advisory follows the recent detention of a Nigerian Dr. Andrew Etsetowaghan at Geneva Airport for carrying a presentation pointer in his hand luggage after the pointers had been banned in Switzerland since June 1, 2019 of which he was not aware.
The Chairman NiDCOM, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, noted that many immigrants might be unaware of this regulation and urged Nigerian travelers to exercise caution to avoid similar incidents.
The victim Dr. Etsetowaghan whon is a public health expert and Project Director at the Centre for Clinical Care and Clinical Research Nigeria, was detained in May 2024, after attending a United States Department meeting in Geneva.
He explained that Upon going through security at Geneva Airport, he was informed that his presentation pointer was not allowed in Switzerland.
“I was detained, had my belongings and documents seized, and was subjected to several hours of interrogation and solitary confinement in a cell.
“Despite my compliance, the treatment I received was inhumane, including limited access to bathroom facilities and being forced to sign documents in French under duress.”
He called for better awareness of the banned items to ensure travelers are well-informed.