NDLEA Warns Against Fake Vehicle Auction Scam Using Officials’ Names

In a statement released on Friday, the NDLEA said con artists have been using the names and photographs of its top officials to deceive members of the public into believing they are participating in genuine auctions of seized vehicles.

The agency explained that the fraudsters contact victims through phone calls, text messages, and social media platforms, claiming that luxury vehicles seized during anti-drug operations are available for auction at giveaway prices.

Victims are typically asked to pay processing fees, registration charges, or “clearance” money before the supposed vehicles can be released. In many cases, the fraudsters disappear after collecting the money, leaving the victims with nothing.

The NDLEA stressed that it does not run any online vehicle auctions and does not request payments into private accounts for any auction-related transactions. All official auctions, when conducted, are publicly advertised through reputable national newspapers and the agency’s verified communication channels.

The agency urged the public to verify any information relating to vehicle auctions directly through its official website, verified social media handles, or by contacting its headquarters in Abuja.

It also advised anyone who has fallen victim to the scam to report immediately to the nearest NDLEA office or police station, providing all relevant evidence that could assist in tracking down the perpetrators.

The warning comes as cases of similar scams continue to rise across the country, with many unsuspecting citizens losing substantial amounts of money to fraudsters impersonating government agencies.

The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to fighting drug trafficking while also protecting the public from criminals attempting to exploit its name and reputation for fraudulent activities.