Avoid Laser Pointers in Switzerland— NiDCOM Warns Nigerians

Abike Dabiri
Abike Dabiri


NiDCOM advises Nigerians visiting Switzerland not to use laser pointers.


NiDCOM warns Nigerian travelers to avoid using laser pointers in Switzerland, following the arrest of a Nigerian citizen who was unaware of the country's ban on such devices.



NiDCOM warns Nigerian travelers to avoid using laser pointers in Switzerland, following the arrest of a Nigerian citizen who was unaware of the country's ban on such devices.


The warning was issued after Andrew was arrested at Geneva Airport for possessing a presentation pointer, highlighting the importance of being mindful of local rules and regulations.


Laser pointers are portable light sources that produce a focused beam of light, often used for pointing, signaling, and entertainment purposes.


Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the CEO and Chairman of NiDCOM, issued a travel advisory on Friday, June 7, through a statement released by Gabriel Odu, the Head of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols unit. The advisory was issued after a Nigerian citizen, Andrew, was detained at Geneva Airport for carrying a presentation pointer in his hand luggage, which is prohibited in Switzerland since June 1, 2019.


According to Dabiri-Erewa, Andrew was unaware of the policy, highlighting the importance of being informed about local regulations when traveling abroad. The incident prompted NiDCOM to issue the advisory, warning Nigerian travelers to avoid carrying laser pointers and other prohibited items to Switzerland to avoid similar incidents.


Etsetowaghan, a Nigerian citizen, was arrested in Geneva, Switzerland, after attending a department meeting, accompanied by an official delegation, highlighting the need for increased awareness of prohibited items.


The statement quoted him as saying: “Upon going through security at Geneva Airport, I was informed that my 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.”


NiDCOM advises all Nigerian travelers to exercise caution and be aware of prohibited items in Swiss airports to avoid similar incidents, emphasizing the need for greater communication from Swiss authorities.

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