EFCC apprehend Nigerian-American over alleged N434m vehicle import fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a Nigerian-American man over allegations of cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000, which is about ₦434.88 million.

In a statement posted on its X account on Friday, the anti-graft agency said the suspect, identified as Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States, is under investigation for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.

“Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ilorin Zonal Directorate, have arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, for an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000 (approximately ₦434.88 million),” the statement said.

The EFCC said preliminary investigations showed that the suspect allegedly belongs to a syndicate based in the United States that defrauds Nigerians under the guise of importing vehicles.

“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 the United States for them,” it added.

The Commission said Adams allegedly advertised a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG while abroad, promising to purchase and ship the vehicle to buyers in 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 statement said.

It stated that two victims allegedly paid a combined sum of $320,000 for the vehicle, with one victim reportedly paying $145,000 through an intermediary, while another allegedly paid $175,000.

“Findings revealed that two victims allegedly paid a total sum of $320,000 (over ₦434.88 million) for the vehicle,” it said.

The EFCC further disclosed that the suspect had a prior criminal record in the United States relating to the alleged illegal acquisition of vehicles.

The commission added that Adams was arrested upon his return to Nigeria by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate and will be arraigned after investigations are concluded.

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