Nigerian-American Arrested Over Alleged N434m Mercedes Import Scam

(Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams. Photo by Nigeria Stories)

Operatives of a law enforcement anti-corruption agency, Ilorin Zonal office, have arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, over an alleged cross-border vehicle import scam involving more than $320,000 (approximately N434.88 million).

According to the agency, Adams, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States, is under investigation for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money through false pretence.

The agency disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed the suspect allegedly belongs to a syndicate operating in the United States that specialises in defr@uding unsuspecting Nigerians by posing as vehicle purchasers and importers.

The investigations further revealed that while based in the United States, Adams allegedly advertised and distributed photographs of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria, pledging to procure and deliver the luxury vehicle to them.

According to the statement, two victims allegedly paid a combined total of $320,000 for the vehicle.

One victim, Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, reportedly transferred $145,000 through an intermediary, while another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000 for the same vehicle.

Further investigations uncovered that Adams had a prior criminal record in the United States, allegedly related to the unlawful acquisition of vehicles.

The suspect was arrested by operatives of the agency’s Ilorin office upon his arrival in Nigeria.

According to the statement, he will be charged in court once investigations are completed.