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A man identified as Andrew Agema Akaanan (also known online as Wave Agm) has been arrested by operatives of the Benue State Police Command in Adikpo following allegations of defrauding a female resident of the state to the tune of N7.8 million in a fake car dealership transaction.
According to a detailed public account shared on social media by community figure D’nkaked Elder Sughne, the victim, described as a Benue sister, contacted the suspect via Facebook in good faith to purchase a 2012 Toyota Corolla. Trusting his portrayal as a legitimate car dealer, she transferred the sum of N7.8 million directly into his bank account.
The suspect reportedly informed the buyer that he had travelled to Minna to procure the vehicle. However, two days after the payment, he switched off his phones and became unreachable, cutting off all communication and failing to deliver the car or refund the money.
The victim subsequently reached out for assistance, prompting Elder Sughne to engage the suspect directly through chats, pleading for him to either deliver the vehicle or return the funds. When the suspect refused to cooperate, the matter was escalated publicly on Facebook and formally reported to the Benue State Police Command in Makurdi.
Police intelligence and tracking efforts reportedly led to the suspect’s arrest in Adikpo today. He is currently in police custody assisting with investigations into the alleged fraud.
The incident highlights the growing risks associated with online transactions, particularly vehicle sales conducted through social media platforms without proper verification or physical inspection. Community members have expressed relief at the swift police action, with calls for the suspect to face the full weight of the law.
The Benue State Police Command has not yet issued an official statement on the arrest, but the case underscores ongoing efforts by security agencies to tackle internet-enabled fraud and protect citizens from financial scams in the digital age. Authorities continue to advise the public to exercise caution, verify sellers’ credentials, and avoid large cash transfers to unknown individuals without meeting in person or using secure escrow services.
