EFCC nabs Nigerian-American over alleged $320,000 vehicle import scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has arrested a Nigerian-American over an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000 (about ₦434.9 million).

The agency said this in a statement on its website by its Media and Publicity unit on Friday.

It said that the suspect was arrested by operatives of the EFCC Ilorin Zonal Directorate upon his return to Nigeria.

According to the commission, the suspect, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States, is being investigated for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money under false pretences.

”Preliminary investigations reveal 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.

”Investigators said he allegedly advertised and circulated photographs of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria, claiming that he would purchase and ship the luxury vehicle to them.

”Findings also show that two victims allegedly paid a combined sum of $320,000 for the vehicle.”

The commission said that one of the victims, Ikechukwu Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary, while another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000 for the same vehicle.

The anti-graft agency said further investigations uncovered a prior criminal record in the United States linked to the suspect, allegedly involving the illegal acquisition of vehicles.

The commission said the suspect would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

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