The Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the Managing Director of Debasilio Construction and Estate Development Limited, Basil Iwoba Ochili, over an alleged ₦128 million land fraud.
The EFCC disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying the suspect was arrested following a petition alleging that he obtained money by false pretence in connection with the sale of five plots of land in Awka, Anambra State.
According to the anti-graft agency, Ochili allegedly presented himself as the owner of the five plots located beside the Anambra State Secretariat, near Stamford Hotel, Aroma Junction, Awka, and offered them for sale in September 2022.
The EFCC said the petitioner, relying on the suspect’s representation, purchased the five plots for ₦128 million, with the money paid into Ochili’s company account.
However, the petitioner was reportedly unable to take possession of the property after the transaction.
The Commission said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly knew the land encroached on the Anambra State Government Secretariat’s property but proceeded with the sale.
Rather than refunding the money, Ochili allegedly issued two dud cheques to the petitioner, according to the EFCC.
The anti-graft agency further alleged that preliminary investigations revealed that part of the money was used by the suspect to settle personal debts.
The EFCC also stated that Debasilio Construction and Estate Development Limited had allegedly not been tax compliant.
The Commission said the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to investigating allegations of financial fraud and ensuring that persons found culpable face prosecution in accordance with the law.
By Enitan Mudashiru
MUK TV News
