The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ilorin Zonal Directorate, has arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, over an alleged Mercedes-Benz import fraud involving more than $320,000 (about ₦434.88 million).
Key highlight:
5 Key Points Summary
- The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission arrested Nigerian-American Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams over an alleged Mercedes-Benz import fraud worth more than $320,000.
- Adams is being investigated for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.
- EFCC investigators claim he was linked to a US-based syndicate that allegedly used fake vehicle importation deals to defraud Nigerians.
- Two victims allegedly paid a combined $320,000 for a purported Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, which Adams claimed he could purchase and ship to Nigeria.
- The suspect was arrested upon his return to Nigeria and is expected to be arraigned in court after investigations are completed.
Adams, a dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, is being investigated for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.
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According to the EFCC, preliminary findings showed that the suspect was allegedly linked to a United States-based syndicate accused of defrauding Nigerians through fake vehicle purchase and importation deals.
Investigators alleged that Adams, while residing in the US, advertised photos of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria, claiming he could purchase and ship the luxury vehicle to them.
The commission said two victims allegedly paid a combined $320,000 for the vehicle. One victim, Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary, while another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000.
The EFCC also said further investigation uncovered a previous criminal record involving Adams in the United States, allegedly connected to illegal vehicle acquisition.
Adams was arrested by EFCC operatives after returning to Nigeria and is expected to be arraigned in court after the completion of investigations.
