Court Orders Final Forfeiture of Bentley and Toyota Venza in Internet Fraud Case

 

A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has granted the final forfeiture of two luxury vehicles—a white Bentley Coupe and a blue Toyota Venza—linked to a suspected internet fraudster, German Onoriode. The decision followed an application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In addition to the vehicles, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu also approved an interim forfeiture of $20,000, CFA 110,000, and a blue Nissan Almera, all suspected to be proceeds of cybercrime.

Background of the Case

According to EFCC’s affidavit presented in court, the items were recovered during a sting operation carried out on August 14, 2023, in Ocean Bay Estate, Lekki, Lagos. While multiple suspects were arrested, Onoriode allegedly evaded arrest, abandoning his vehicles and leaving behind incriminating documents.

Investigations revealed that the Bentley Coupe was imported using funds linked to fraudulent transactions. Additionally, financial records showed that over ₦500 million had been funneled into the suspect’s various local and foreign bank accounts between 2018 and 2023.

Sting Operation Along Seme Border

In a separate but related operation, the EFCC stated that on July 13, 2025, Nigerian Customs Service operatives intercepted a sky blue Nissan Almera near the Seme Border in Lagos. The driver, also a suspected fraudster, abandoned the car and fled upon spotting law enforcement agents.

Upon inspection, $20,000 in cash and CFA 110,000 were found hidden inside the vehicle. The EFCC suspects the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

Court’s Ruling

Justice Dipeolu granted the final forfeiture of the Bentley and Toyota Venza, and interim forfeiture of the cash and Nissan Almera, citing compelling evidence submitted by EFCC investigators. The court also ordered that the interim forfeiture be published in a national newspaper to allow any interested parties to challenge the claim before a final ruling.

Broader Anti-Fraud Campaign

The ruling is part of a broader effort by the EFCC to crack down on internet fraud and cyber-related offenses in Nigeria. This comes amid a wave of arrests across the country, including recent busts in Bauchi and Kano, where dozens of suspected fraudsters were apprehended.