The Nigerian Police Force has arraigned Suleiman Lamu and Anas Abdullahi, before an FCT Magistrates’ Court in Dutse, Abuja, before Magistrate Mariam Muazu for allegedly falsely selling a car used in Nigeria as a direct Belgium to a customer.
The complainants, Manash Paul and Banwo Olagokun, in their statements revealed that they purchased the car for over ₦6 million only to discover it was Nigerian-used which has been registered twice in the country and had stressed its owner out due to breakdowns.
In the suit marked CR/DUT/716/25, the defendants are facing a one-count charge bordering on alleged criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and cheating which contradicts Sections 97, 312, and 322 of the Penal Code.
The charge read “One Manash Paul on behalf of Mr Banwo Olagokun came to the Divisional Police Headquarters, Dawaki, Abuja, and reported you, Suleiman Buba Lamu and Anas Yau Abdullahi, both male.
“That he bought a Highlander Jeep which was falsely presented to him as a direct Belgium car with Chassis No: JTEDP21A540032900 for the sum of N6,100,000.00 only and was issued with Receipt No: 0177, dated 15/04/2025, from A.&S Halal Motors Ltd. During test-running and further investigation about the car, it was discovered that it had been registered by two different buyers.
“By so doing, you have committed the offences for which you are charged.”
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While the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge against them, the defence counsel applied for bail which the prosecution opposed.
According to the defence counsel, the accused persons have rights to bail since their offence is bailable. He further stated that they were ready to stand trial and would avail themselves when necessary.
“They are also prepared to fulfil the terms of the bail conditions granted.
“They will not obstruct investigation, and I believe that in this case, the investigation is concluded,” the defence counsel stated.
On the other hand, the prosecution counsel opposed the bail citing that the defendants would intimidate the witness . He however, requested the court to give conditions for the bail if they must grant it.
“We urge the court to impose conditions that will mandate the defendants to appear before this court daily for their trial.
“The Administration of Criminal Justice Act demands that the defendants deposit a cost which is reasonable as a security for their bail.
“This sum shall be forfeited in the interest of justice if they jump bail,” he suggested.
However, the defence counsel stressed that the defendants have right to bail and the judge agreed with him.
In his ruling, the judge agreed that bail is at the discretion of the court and granted them bail in the sum of N500,000 each, with two sureties residing within the jurisdiction of the court.
“The sureties must swear to an affidavit of means and submit their passport photographs to the court,” he said.
The matter was adjourned to July 28, for hearing.
