Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, over an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000, estimated at about N434.88 million.
The anti-graft agency said Adams, who holds both Nigerian and United States citizenship, was apprehended by operatives of its Ilorin Zonal Directorate upon his return to Nigeria and is currently being investigated for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.
According to the EFCC, preliminary findings indicate that the suspect is linked to a United States-based syndicate accused of defrauding Nigerians through purported vehicle importation deals.
The commission alleged that Adams advertised a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria while residing in the United States, claiming he would purchase and ship the luxury vehicle on their behalf.
The commission further disclosed that investigations uncovered a previous criminal record linked to Adams in the United States involving the alleged unlawful acquisition of vehicles.
The EFCC stated that two victims allegedly paid a combined sum of $320,000 for the vehicle, with one reportedly transferring $145,000 through an intermediary, while another paid $175,000.
“Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ilorin Zonal Directorate, have arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, for an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000 (approximately ₦434.88 million).
“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 statement read in part.
The EFCC said the suspect would be charged to court on the conclusion of investigations.
