EFCC Arrests Nigerian-American Over Alleged ₦434.9m Mercedes-Benz Import Scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a Nigerian-American citizen, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, over an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000, estimated at about ₦434.88 million.

Naijapunchnews reports that the anti-graft agency said Adams, who holds both Nigerian and United States citizenship, was apprehended by operatives of the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Directorate and is currently under investigation for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money under false pretences.

According to the commission, preliminary findings suggest that the suspect is linked to a United States-based syndicate allegedly involved in defrauding Nigerians through fake vehicle importation deals.

Suspect Allegedly Used Luxury Vehicle Advertisements

The EFCC disclosed that Adams allegedly targeted prospective buyers by advertising luxury vehicles online and promising to facilitate their purchase and shipment from the United States to Nigeria.

Investigators said the suspect reportedly circulated photographs of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, presenting the vehicle as available for purchase and importation.

The luxury SUV was allegedly used to convince potential buyers to make substantial payments with assurances that the vehicle would be procured and delivered to Nigeria within an agreed timeframe.

According to the EFCC, the transactions appeared legitimate to the victims, prompting them to transfer large sums of money for the purported purchase.

Victims Allegedly Lost Over $320,000

The commission revealed that two individuals allegedly paid a combined total of $320,000 in separate transactions connected to the deal.

One of the complainants, identified as Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary for the acquisition and shipment of the luxury vehicle.

Another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly transferred $175,000 for the same automobile under the belief that the transaction was genuine.

However, investigators said the promised vehicle was never delivered despite the payments, leading the victims to raise complaints that eventually attracted the attention of the EFCC.

Probe Expands Into Alleged International Fraud Network

The anti-graft agency said ongoing investigations indicate that the alleged fraud may be part of a broader operation targeting Nigerians interested in importing luxury vehicles from overseas.

According to the commission, investigators are currently working to establish the full extent of the suspected scheme and identify other individuals who may have participated in the operation.

The EFCC stated that the case highlights the growing sophistication of cross-border fraud schemes in which suspects exploit digital platforms, social media and online marketplaces to lure victims.

EFCC Uncovers Alleged Previous US Criminal Record

Further investigations reportedly uncovered information suggesting that Adams may have had previous legal issues in the United States relating to the alleged unlawful acquisition of vehicles.

The commission noted that the suspect was arrested shortly after returning to Nigeria, where operatives tracked and apprehended him as part of ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes with international links.

Warning to Nigerians

The development has renewed concerns about fraudulent vehicle importation transactions, particularly those conducted through online channels where photographs of luxury cars are often used to attract unsuspecting buyers.

Security experts and financial crime investigators have repeatedly warned Nigerians to exercise caution when dealing with overseas vehicle vendors and to verify the authenticity of sellers before making payments.

The EFCC reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens from financial fraud and ensuring that individuals involved in economic crimes are held accountable.

The commission added that Adams would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

“The suspect will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of the ongoing investigations,” the EFCC stated.

Authorities have also advised Nigerians engaging in cross-border vehicle transactions to carry out proper due diligence, verify ownership documents and utilise trusted channels when making large financial commitments to avoid falling victim to fraud.