By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Basil Iwoba Ochili, Managing Director of Debasilio Construction and Estate Development Limited, 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 obtained N128 million from a prospective land buyer under false pretences.
According to the petitioner, sometime in September 2022, Ochili allegedly presented himself as the owner of five plots of land located beside the Anambra State Secretariat, near Stamford Hotel, Aroma Junction, Awka, and offered the property for sale.
Relying on the representation, the petitioner reportedly paid N128 million into the bank account of Ochili’s company for the five plots.
The petitioner, however, was allegedly unable to take possession of the land after making the payment.
Preliminary investigation by the EFCC reportedly showed that Ochili was aware that the land encroached on the property of the Anambra State Government Secretariat but allegedly proceeded with the sale.
The suspect also allegedly failed to refund the N128 million and instead issued two “dud cheques” to the petitioner.
The EFCC further alleged that Ochili diverted part of the proceeds of the transaction to settle personal debts.
The Commission also alleged that Debasilio Construction and Estate Development Limited had never been tax compliant.
The EFCC said Ochili would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.