The EFCC arrested an American-Nigerian national over alleged N434m car purchase fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested an American citizen of Nigerian descent over an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving over $320,000 (approx. ₦434.9 million).

The agency said this in a statement on its website by its Media and Publicity unit on Friday.

It was said that the suspect was arrested by agents of the EFCC Ilorin Zonal Directorate upon his return to Nigeria.

According to the commission, the suspect, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States, is being investigated for alleged breach of trust and obtaining money under false pretenses.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are allegedly members of a United States-based syndicate that specializes in defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians under the guise of purchasing and importing vehicles from America.

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”Investigators said he allegedly advertised and distributed photos of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria, claiming that he would purchase and deliver the luxury vehicle to them.

“Findings also indicate that the two victims allegedly paid a total of $320,000 for the vehicle.”

The commission said that one of the victims, Ikechukwu Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary, while another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000 for the same vehicle.

The anti-corruption agency said further investigations revealed a previous criminal record in the United States linked to the suspect, which allegedly involved the illegal acquisition of vehicles.

The commission said the suspect would be tried in court once the investigation was completed.