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 scam in Anambra State.
Ochili was arrested by operatives of the EFCC Enugu Zonal Directorate following a petition over the alleged sale of five plots of land located beside Stamford Hotel, near the Anambra State Secretariat at Aroma Junction, Awka.
The petitioner reportedly paid N128 million into Ochili’s company account after being assured that he had ownership of the properties. However, the buyer was allegedly unable to take possession of the land.
According to preliminary findings, the EFCC alleged that Ochili knew the property was part of the Anambra State Government Secretariat land but still offered it for sale.
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The commission further alleged that rather than refunding the money, Ochili issued two cheques to the petitioner, which were reportedly dishonoured.
Investigators also alleged that part of the money was used by the suspect to settle debts, while his company was found not to have been tax-compliant.
The EFCC said Ochili will be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
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