The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, for alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000, about ₦434.88 million.
The EFCC Ilorin Zonal Directorate said in a statement on Friday that Adams, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States, is being investigated for criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.
—US-based syndicate targeted Nigerian buyers—
Preliminary investigations showed the suspect allegedly belongs to a US-based syndicate that defrauds Nigerians by posing as vehicle importers.
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“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,” the commission stated.
The EFCC said Adams advertised a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG while residing in the United States, circulating photographs of the luxury vehicle and promising to purchase and ship it to buyers in Nigeria.
—Two victims paid $320,000—
Investigations revealed that two victims paid a combined sum of $320,000 for the vehicle. One victim allegedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary, while another paid $175,000.
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“Findings revealed that two victims allegedly paid a total sum of $320,000 (over ₦434.88 million) for the vehicle,” the EFCC said.
The commission further disclosed that Adams had a prior criminal record in the United States relating to the alleged illegal acquisition of vehicles.
Adams was arrested upon his return to Nigeria by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate. The EFCC said he will be arraigned after investigations are concluded.
