NDLEA Raises Alarm Over Fake Vehicle Auction Scam, Warns Public Against Fraudsters Impersonating Officials

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has alerted Nigerians to a fraudulent scheme in which criminals are impersonating senior officials of the Agency to deceive unsuspecting members of the public with fake offers of forfeited vehicles purportedly being sold at discounted prices.

The anti-narcotics agency said the scammers have been circulating forged private letters, text messages and other communications bearing the names of top NDLEA officials, particularly the Agency’s Secretary, Barrister Shadrach Haruna, in a bid to lure victims into paying money for non-existent auctioned vehicles.

In a statement issued on Friday 03, July, 2026, by the Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the NDLEA described the scheme as a calculated criminal operation designed to defraud members of the public of their hard-earned money.

The Agency categorically distanced itself from the fraudulent offers, stressing that neither Barrister Haruna nor any other NDLEA official has the authority to privately allocate, sell or offer forfeited vehicles or any other assets seized during anti-drug operations.

According to the statement, all vehicles and assets forfeited to the Federal Government as proceeds of drug-related crimes are disposed of strictly through transparent public auction processes handled by duly appointed and government-registered auctioneers.

The NDLEA explained that whenever such auctions are approved, they are widely publicised through national newspapers and the Agency’s official communication platforms, in compliance with extant legal provisions and public procurement regulations.

Describing the fake offers as a “malicious gimmick”, the Agency urged Nigerians to disregard any private correspondence, text messages or social media posts claiming to offer forfeited vehicles on behalf of Barrister Haruna or any other NDLEA official.

The Agency also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with individuals or groups making such claims, warning that the offers are entirely fraudulent and intended to swindle unsuspecting victims.

It further advised anyone approached with such offers to promptly report the incident to the nearest NDLEA command or through the Agency’s official communication channels to enable security agencies investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability and integrity, the NDLEA assured Nigerians that all its activities, including the disposal of forfeited assets, are conducted in accordance with established laws and due process.

The Agency urged citizens to remain cautious and verify any information relating to auctions or disposal of forfeited assets through official NDLEA platforms, warning that falling for unofficial offers could result in financial losses.