Customs warns public against fake vehicle auction scams
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a stern warning over a surge of fraudulent vehicle auction schemes circulating on social media, urging the public to exercise caution and avoid
- By Afiong Edemumoh
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a stern warning over a surge of fraudulent vehicle auction schemes circulating on social media, urging the public to exercise caution and avoid falling prey to impostors claiming to represent the Service.
The alert comes after the discovery of a fake account promoting discounted vehicle sales, falsely linked to official Customs operations. The development has sparked concerns within the maritime and port sectors, where legitimate auctions of seized vehicles remain vital for cargo enforcement and revenue generation.
Advertisement
300x250
In a statement, the NCS clarified that the circulating claims are entirely false and not sanctioned by the Service. “The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been drawn to a fraudulent social media account currently circulating online, falsely conducting vehicle auctions,” the statement read.
The Service also emphasised that the officer whose image appears in the viral posts is not connected to the scam. Citizens are advised to verify auction information through official NCS channels before engaging in any transactions.
“The officer whose image is being used is not involved in any car sales on social media, and the account is an act of impersonation intended to defraud unsuspecting members of the public,” it added.
Findings show that the fake Instagram account, operating under the name "J.O ATTAH AUTOS" with the handle @nigeriacustom001, falsely presents itself as an authorised dealer of auctioned vehicles.
The page advertises multiple cars, including foreign-used models such as Mercedes-Benz, Toyota Camry, and Range Rover, with listed prices and contact details—creating a deceptive impression of legitimacy.
Advertisement
300x250
However, the Service highlighted the account's fraudulent nature with a bold "Scam Alert" overlay on the image that was shared.
The NCS warned the public to exercise caution and avoid engaging with unverified platforms.
“Members of the public are strongly advised to disregard such messages, refrain from making any payments, and report the account for further action,” the statement read.
Reinforcing its commitment to transparency, the Service urged stakeholders and the public to rely solely on its verified communication channels for accurate information regarding auctions and other activities. It listed its official platforms, including Facebook (Nigeria Customs Service), Instagram (@customsng), TikTok (@customsng), Threads (@customsng), X (@customsng), and its website.
