By Paul Iyoghojie
Operatives of the Police Special Weapons and Tactical (SWAT) unit have captured two notorious clearing agents who allegedly defrauded a customer of N18.5 million at the Tin Can Island port in Lagos.
The suspects, Nwafor George Uche, 52, and Akaso Danmasani, 63, were arrested after months of evading justice.
Police claim the duo conned their victim, Ezeakor Anthony Osita, by promising to use the money to purchase three Toyota cars—models from 2001, 2004, and 2005—via customs auction.
But when the defendants failed to deliver on their promise and switched off their phones, the victim grew suspicious and alerted the authorities.
After the complaint reached the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) at the Force Headquarters, Lagos, the case was referred to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) overseeing SWAT operations at Adeniji Adele Road.
A swift investigation ensued, and with the help of intelligence and tracking, the SWAT team located and apprehended the suspects hiding out in Lagos.
According to police sources, the clearing agents had introduced themselves to the complainant as trusted customs operatives, claiming they could secure the vehicles at an unbeatable price.
However, after receiving the N18.5 million payment, the agents disappeared, refusing to either return the funds or provide the promised vehicles.
The situation escalated when the defendants threatened to kill the complainant if he continued to press them for answers about the cars and his money.
Following their arrest, the accused were charged before the Tinubu Magistrate’s Court on multiple counts, including conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretenses, stealing, fraudulent conversion, and threat to life.
Police prosecutor DSP Ben Ekundayo outlined the shocking details of the scam, emphasizing that the defendants’ actions were punishable under sections 411, 314, and 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
Despite the overwhelming evidence, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Magistrate O.O. Olatunji granted them bail at N5 million each, with two sureties in like sum.
However, they remain in detention at the Ikoyi Correctional Facility until their bail conditions are met. The case has been adjourned until May 21, 2025, for further proceedings.
