EFCC Arrests Nigerian-American Over Alleged $320,000 Cross-Border Luxury Vehicle Import Scam
EFCC Arrests Nigerian-American Over Alleged $320,000 Cross-Border Luxury Vehicle Import Scam
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, over an alleged cross-border vehicle import scam involving more than $320,000, equivalent to approximately ₦434.88 million.
The anti-graft agency disclosed that Adams, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States of America, was arrested by operatives of its Ilorin Zonal Directorate and is currently being investigated for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.
According to the EFCC, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly belongs to a syndicate based in the United States that specialises in defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians under the guise of purchasing and importing vehicles from America.
The commission stated that Adams allegedly used photographs of a luxury vehicle to lure prospective buyers into making huge payments with the promise of securing and shipping the automobile to Nigeria.
“Investigations further revealed that, while residing in the United States, Adams allegedly advertised and circulated photographs of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria, promising to purchase and ship the luxury vehicle to them,” the EFCC said.
Findings by investigators showed that two victims allegedly paid a combined sum of $320,000 for the vehicle, believing the transaction was genuine.
One of the victims, identified as Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary to facilitate the purchase and shipment of the luxury automobile. Another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000 for the same vehicle.
The EFCC noted that despite receiving the substantial payments, the promised vehicle was never delivered, prompting complaints that eventually led to investigations by the commission.
The alleged fraud is believed to be part of a wider scheme targeting Nigerians seeking to import luxury vehicles from abroad.
Investigators are currently working to determine the full scope of the operation and identify possible accomplices linked to the suspected syndicate.
Further investigation also uncovered what the commission described as a prior criminal record involving Adams in the United States, allegedly related to the illegal acquisition of vehicles.
The EFCC said the suspect’s arrest was carried out upon his return to Nigeria, where operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate apprehended him as part of ongoing efforts to combat economic and financial crimes with international dimensions.
The development highlights growing concerns over fraudulent vehicle import deals conducted through online platforms and social media channels, where scammers often use photographs of luxury automobiles to convince potential buyers to part with large sums of money.
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While investigations continue, the EFCC reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians from fraudulent schemes and bringing perpetrators to justice.
“The suspect will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of the ongoing investigations,” the commission stated.
Authorities have advised members of the public to exercise caution when engaging in vehicle import transactions and to verify the credibility of dealers before making payments, particularly in cross-border transactions involving large sums of money.
