$7,000 SCAM BUSTED: ZONE 7 POLICE CRACK FRAUDULENT CAR DEAL IN ABUJA.
By Raymond Enoch
In a decisive anti-fraud operation, the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 7 Headquarters, has cracked a suspected criminal case involving a luxury vehicle scam, recovering $7,000 USD from a fraudulent dealer in Abuja.
According to a press release signed by ASP Mohammed Halima, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Zone 7 Headquarters, said that the case stemmed from a petition filed on June 1,0th, 2025, by a complainant who reported being deceived in a vehicle purchase involving a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. The luxury SUV had been advertised on Facebook for ₦32 million (approximately $20,000 USD), and the complainant was invited to inspect it at a designated car Stand.
After being told the only issue with the vehicle was a faulty power steering system that would be fixed within a week, the complainant paid a $7,000 USD deposit, based on a mutual agreement that the sum would be refunded if she chose not to proceed with the transaction.
However, after a follow-up inspection by a certified Mercedes-Benz mechanic, it was discovered that the car had major mechanical and electrical defects, far beyond what was initially disclosed. When the buyer demanded a refund, the seller, Mr. Peter Ikechukwu Okorie, and an accomplice identified only as Mr. Paul, refused to return the funds unless the car was resold—without offering a clear timeline.
Acting swiftly on the petition, police detectives led by CSP Akinlabi Ogundile invited Mr. Peter Ikechukwu for questioning. During the investigation, he confessed to the fraudulent transaction, and the police successfully recovered the full $7,000 USD.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to apprehend Mr. Paul, who remains at large and will face prosecution once arrested.
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 7, has reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to fighting financial crime and protecting the rights of citizens. He advised the public to exercise due diligence when engaging in online or second-hand vehicle purchases, especially those initiated via social media platforms.
“We will continue to pursue justice and ensure that criminals exploiting unsuspecting buyers are brought to book,” the AIG stated.
