Police Arraign Fake Customs Officer

A  man,  Umar Muhammed, 46, who  claimed to be the officer in charge of auctioning of impounded cars with the Nigerian Customs Service has been arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court for allegedly obtaining N5.9 million under false pretences.

He was charged on a four-count of impersonation and stealing.

The police prosecutor alleged that the accused was arrested following a written complaint lodged by  Abubakar Jesema that the suspect falsely introduced himself to him as a serving customs officer in charge of the auctioning of impounded cars and collected N5.9 million to purchase auctioned vehicles for him, a claim he knew to be false.

He further stated that since he collected the money in January 2012 at Ikeja, Lagos, southwest Nigeria, he failed to supply the cars and also refused to refund the money.

He added that he later discovered that he was a fake customs officer, and reported the matter  to the police.

According to police prosecutor Supol. Olakanmi Omisope, the offences are contrary to and punishable under sections 409, 312, 78(a ) (b), 278 and 285 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge and the presiding Magistrate, Mrs. Abegunde Davies, admitted him to bail in the sum of N3 million with two sureties each in like sum who must show evidence of  tax payment to the Lagos State government.

She adjourned the matter till 13 December for mention.

The defendant has been remanded at the Ikoyi Prison until he meets the bail conditions.

—Paul Iyoghojie