EFCC arrests Nigerian-American over alleged $320,000 vehicle import fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a Nigerian-American citizen over an alleged cross-border vehicle import scam involving more than $320,000, estimated at about N434.9 million, in what the anti-graft agency described as a sophisticated scheme targeting Nigerians seeking to purchase luxury vehicles from the United States.

The suspect was apprehended by operatives of the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Directorate upon his return to Nigeria, according to a statement issued on Friday by Dele Oyewale, head of the commission’s Media and Publicity Unit.

The EFCC disclosed that the suspect, who holds dual Nigerian and United States citizenship, is currently being investigated for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money under false pretences.

According to the commission, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect is allegedly linked to a syndicate operating in the United States that specialises in defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians under the guise of facilitating the purchase and importation of luxury vehicles from America.

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The agency said the suspect allegedly used photographs and advertisements of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to attract prospective buyers in Nigeria, claiming he had the capacity to purchase and ship the high-end vehicle to them.

Investigators believe the scheme succeeded in convincing at least two victims to part with substantial sums of money for the vehicle, which was allegedly never delivered.

The EFCC revealed that one of the victims, Ikechukwu Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary to secure the luxury SUV.

Another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000 for the same vehicle, bringing the total amount involved to $320,000.

The anti-graft agency said its findings suggest that the payments were made based on assurances that the vehicle would be purchased in the United States and shipped to Nigeria.

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However, investigations allegedly uncovered fraudulent representations surrounding the transaction.

In a further twist, the commission disclosed that its ongoing investigation uncovered a previous criminal record in the United States allegedly linked to the suspect.

The record, according to the EFCC, relates to the unlawful acquisition of vehicles, raising additional concerns about the suspect’s activities and possible connections to a wider international fraud network.

The EFCC reiterated its commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting citizens from fraudulent schemes, particularly those with international dimensions.

The commission added that investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the alleged fraud, identify possible accomplices and establish whether more victims may have been affected.

It stated that the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.