EFCC arrests Anambra estate developer over alleged N128m land fraud
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The EFCC's Enugu zonal directorate has arrested the managing director of Debasilio Construction and Estate Development Limited over an alleged N128 million land scam involving five plots beside the Anambra State Secretariat in Awka.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Basil Iwoba Ochili, Managing Director of Debasilio Construction and Estate Development Limited, over an alleged 128 million naira land scam in Anambra State.
According to the EFCC's Enugu Zonal Directorate, Ochili was arrested following a petition that accused him of falsely claiming ownership of five plots of land located beside Stamford Hotel, near the Anambra State Secretariat at Aroma Junction in Awka.
The petitioner reportedly paid 128 million naira into the company's account based on Ochili's assurances, only to discover he could not take possession of the property.
Investigators said preliminary findings indicate Ochili allegedly knew the land formed part of the Anambra State Government Secretariat's property yet still offered it for sale.
When the buyer demanded a refund, Ochili allegedly issued two dud cheques instead. The commission further claimed that part of the money was used to settle personal debts and that the company had never been tax-compliant.
The EFCC stated that Ochili will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.