By Emma Nnadozie, Crime Editor
The police in Abuja have launched an investigation into a transfer of approximately N1 billion made by bureau de change operator Shamsudeen Ahmed. The funds were sent through three banks to suspected criminals who allegedly offered to sell him $1 million from Dubai, leading to the mysterious disappearance of the substantial sum.
Detectives are particularly examining the role of a third-generation bank (name withheld) in facilitating this illegal transfer. According to information, the suspects provided details of four bank accounts to which the complainant deposited the funds, only to later realize that they had conspired to defraud him.
In a petition submitted on behalf of the complainant by Anthony Odule to the Inspector General of Police, it was reported that on December 8, 2023, Ahmed was contacted by suspects Gambo Dahiru, Ibrahim Mohammed, Shaibu Mohammed, and Francis Azubuike (also known as Frank). They misled him into believing there was a legitimate $1 million for sale from Dubai, which he expressed interest in purchasing.
The petition detailed the bank transfers: Ahmed paid N830 million, N330 million, and N10 million into accounts belonging to Usman Global Investment Limited, Yadiz Oil and Gas Plc Nigeria Limited, and M. Technology Red Set, respectively.
Upon preliminary investigation, it was revealed that the suspects had no actual dollars to deliver and had instead divided the funds among themselves. This situation is particularly troubling for Ahmed, as he borrowed part of the money to make these payments, which could harm his reputation if not repaid.
Upon suspecting foul play, Ahmed quickly alerted all banks involved, requesting they halt any payments and refund the transferred amounts. While one bank swiftly returned a portion of the funds, the third-generation bank has reportedly refused to refund Ahmed, citing a claim from the account owner that they provided value for the money, which Ahmed contests.
He expressed frustration over the bank’s lack of action, questioning why they had not sought evidence to support their claims. Police sources indicated that officials from the implicated bank would be invited for questioning soon. Meanwhile, six suspects have been arrested and have returned some of the funds, but the money transferred through the third-generation bank remains unaccounted for.