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 N128 million land fraud in Anambra State.
Ochili was arrested by operatives of the EFCC Enugu Zonal Directorate following a petition alleging that he fraudulently obtained N128 million from a buyer through the sale of five plots of land in Awka.
According to the EFCC, the suspect allegedly presented himself as the owner of the five plots located beside the Anambra State Secretariat, by Stamford Hotel, Aroma Junction, Awka, and offered them for sale in September 2022.
The petitioner reportedly relied on Ochili’s representation and paid N128 million into the account of his company for the purchase of the property.
However, the buyer was allegedly unable to take possession of the land after the transaction.
Preliminary investigation by the EFCC reportedly showed that Ochili was aware that the property encroached on land belonging to the Anambra State Government Secretariat but allegedly proceeded with the sale.
Rather than refunding the N128 million, the suspect allegedly issued two dud cheques to the petitioner.
The anti-graft agency further alleged that Ochili used part of the proceeds to settle personal debts, while his company had allegedly failed to comply with its tax obligations.
The EFCC said the suspect would be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
