Police Extradite Fraud Suspect from UAE Over Multi-Million Dollar Vehicle Scam

The Nigeria Police Force has successfully extradited a Nigerian fugitive, Abubakar Aboki Muhammed, from the United Arab Emirates in connection with a multi-million dollar fraud case involving forgery and money laundering.

Muhammed, who was declared wanted following an INTERPOL Red Notice issued by the National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, was extradited to Nigeria on Friday, May 23, 2025, following his arrest in Dubai on April 15, 2025.

According to the police, the case stems from a complaint filed in July 2023 by an Abuja-based international businessman. The complainant alleged that Muhammed posed as a shipping agent and secured a contract to facilitate the transport of ten luxury vehicles valued at $307,500 from the UAE to Nigeria.

Investigations revealed that the suspect fraudulently obtained the funds using a third-party bank account at FCMB registered to one Anas Usaini of Kano State, which was then used for money laundering activities in Dubai.

After receiving the full payment, Muhammed reportedly issued a forged bill of lading and then vanished, cutting off all communication with the victim.

The extradition marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s fight against transnational financial crimes. The Nigeria Police Force, led by Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, credited the successful operation to the cooperation of the Dubai Police, INTERPOL NCB Abu Dhabi, and the Nigerian Consulate General in Dubai.

“The NPF will continue to collaborate with international law enforcement agencies to pursue and bring to justice individuals who seek to exploit and defraud citizens through cross-border criminal activities,” said Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

Muhammed is expected to face prosecution at the Federal High Court in Nigeria.