EFCC grabs Nigerian-American for alleged $320,000 vehicle import fraud

By Ayorinde Oluokun

A Nigerian- American man identified as Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams has been arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000 (approximately ₦434.88 million).

Adams, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States of America was arrested by operatives of Ilorin Zonal Directorate of EFCC.

The anti-graft agency said he was arrested for investigation over alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.

According to EFCC, 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 anti-graft agency said its investigations further revealed that, while residing in the United States, Adams 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.

Findings revealed that two victims allegedly paid a total sum of $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.

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.