Abuja: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a Nigerian-American over an alleged cross-border vehicle import scam involving more than $320,000, the agency said on Friday.
The suspect was arrested by operatives of the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Directorate after returning to Nigeria, according to a statement by the commission’s Media and Publicity Unit.
The EFCC said the suspect, who holds dual citizenship of Nigeria and the United States, is under investigation for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money under false pretences.
Preliminary findings, the commission said, suggest that he belonged to a United States-based syndicate that allegedly defrauded Nigerians by posing as vehicle importers.
Investigators said he allegedly circulated photographs of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to prospective buyers in Nigeria and claimed he would purchase and ship the luxury vehicle to them.
Two victims were said to have paid a combined $320,000 for the vehicle.
According to the EFCC, Ikechukwu Ifeabunike allegedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary, while Godson Azubuike Amans reportedly paid $175,000 for the same vehicle.
The commission said further investigation uncovered a previous criminal record linked to the suspect in the United States, allegedly involving the illegal acquisition of vehicles.
The suspect will be arraigned in court after investigations are concluded, the EFCC said.