Woman in EFCC net over alleged N165m fake land sale in Delta

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested Salt Udoka, a 48-year-old woman, for allegedly committing property fraud involving a sum of N165 million.

Udoka was apprehended by operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC following allegations that she conspired with two other individuals to defraud a victim by selling a large expanse of land in Delta State under false pretences.

The arrest was confirmed in a statement by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC.

According to the Commission, preliminary investigations revealed that Udoka, working alongside Ndubisi  Iheukwumere, her accomplice,  induced the victim to part with N165 million after presenting themselves as legitimate sellers of a 100-acre parcel of land located at Ewulu Kingdom in Delta State.

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The suspects reportedly assured the victim that all arrangements had been concluded for the sale of the property.

The EFCC said the victim transferred the full amount to Udoka and her accomplice in good faith, relying on the representations made to him.

However, shortly after receiving the funds, the suspects allegedly disappeared and severed all lines of communication with the victim.

Despite repeated efforts, the victim neither gained access to the property nor received a refund of the money paid.

Investigations further showed that the land transaction was fraudulent, prompting the victim to petition the anti-graft agency.

Udoka was subsequently tracked and arrested, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the other suspects linked to the alleged crime.

The Commission disclosed that the suspect has made useful statements to investigators and is cooperating with ongoing inquiries.

It added that she will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The EFCC reiterated its warning to members of the public to exercise due diligence in property transactions and to verify land ownership and documentation before committing large sums of money, noting that the Commission remains resolute in tackling economic and financial crimes across the country.