DSS nabs businessmen for fraud, terrorism in Abuja

The Department of State Services (DSS) has apprehended two Abuja-based businessmen, Abubakar Sheu and Ibrahim Isyaku Mahuta, in connection with alleged advance fee fraud and terrorism activities.

Sheu and Mahuta are currently in DSS custody, following their alleged involvement in deceiving major federal government contractors and sponsoring terrorism. Their 12 bank accounts, believed to hold proceeds from their illicit activities, have been frozen by a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Court documents reveal that Abubakar Sheu, operating through his companies A. A. Gano Ventures and A. A. Zaks Global Concept, is accused of defrauding several contractors. The DSS’s preliminary investigation suggests Sheu is part of a criminal network targeting federal contractors by exploiting connections with high-ranking officials in various federal ministries and agencies.

The investigation uncovered that funds obtained through fraudulent means were deposited in accounts across Ecobank Plc, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), and Sterling Bank Plc. The DSS has asserted that these activities pose a significant threat to national security.

Justice Peter Lifu authorized the freezing of Sheu’s five bank accounts for 60 days to facilitate a thorough investigation, as per the DSS’s motion under sections 5(3) and 81(1) of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022. The case is documented under Federal High Court number FHC/ABJ/CS/1033/2024, with the motion presented by lawyer Yunusa Idris Umar.

In a separate case, Ibrahim Isyaku Mahuta and his company, Majmahuta Energy Company Limited, face accusations of defrauding Moses Drambi of N48.7 million by falsely promising to ship petroleum products from Ghana to Nigeria. Mahuta’s company allegedly deposited the funds in accounts held with United Bank for Africa (UBA), Ecobank, and Providus Bank Limited.

Justice Lifu has also ordered the freezing of Mahuta’s seven bank accounts for 60 days to investigate and address the fraudulent activities. This action follows the DSS’s motion, documented under Federal High Court number FHC/ABJ/CS/1034/2024, and was argued by Yunusa Idris Umar.