The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested a Nigerian-American citizen, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, for allegedly defrauding two Nigerians of over $320,000 through a fake luxury vehicle import scheme.
Operatives of the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Directorate apprehended Adams following investigations into allegations of criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence in connection with a cross-border vehicle import fraud.
According to the anti-graft agency, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly belongs to a United States-based syndicate that specialises in deceiving unsuspecting Nigerians with promises of purchasing and shipping luxury vehicles from America.
The EFCC said Adams allegedly advertised and circulated photographs of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria while residing in the United States, assuring them that the vehicle would be purchased and delivered after payment.
Investigators disclosed that two victims allegedly paid a combined sum of $320,000, equivalent to about ₦434.88 million, for the luxury vehicle.
One of the victims, Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary, while another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000 for the same vehicle.
The commission further revealed that its investigations uncovered indications that the suspect had previously come under the radar of law enforcement authorities in the United States over alleged vehicle-related offences.
”The suspect is alleged to have presented himself as a reliable vehicle dealer capable of sourcing and exporting luxury automobiles from the United States. Our investigation indicates that substantial sums were collected from victims without the promised vehicle being delivered,” EFCC said.
The agency further revealed that that investigators are working to determine whether other persons may have fallen victim to the alleged scheme.
”This case points to the growing sophistication of cross-border fraud networks. We are expanding our investigations to establish the full scope of the operation and identify any accomplices connected to the scheme,” EFCC stated.
The EFCC also urged members of the public to exercise caution when engaging in high-value international transactions.
”Prospective buyers should conduct thorough due diligence before transferring funds for overseas purchases, particularly where transactions involve individuals or entities operating outside the country.”
According to the commission, Adams was arrested upon his return to Nigeria and remains in custody while investigations continue.
”The Commission remains committed to protecting Nigerians from economic and financial crimes, regardless of where such crimes originate. Anyone found culpable will be made to face the full weight of the law,” EFCC added.
The agency said the suspect would be arraigned before a competent court upon the conclusion of investigations.
