From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ilorin Zonal Directorate, have arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, over an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000, approximately ₦434.88 million.
Adams, who holds dual citizenship in Nigeria and the United States of America, is being investigated for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.
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.
The investigation 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.
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Findings revealed that two victims allegedly paid a total sum exceeding $320,000 (over ₦434.88 million) for the 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.
Further investigation also uncovered a prior criminal record involving Adams in the United States, allegedly related to the illegal acquisition of vehicles. In the long run, the suspect was arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC upon his return to Nigeria.
The suspect will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of the ongoing investigations.
