INTERPOL launches probe into importation of N3.3bn damaged solar panels from China
The Nigeria Police Force, through its International Police (Interpol) Unit, has launched a full-scale investigation into the importation of solar panels worth N3.3 billion allegedly damaged by a typhoon prior to shipment from China.
The defective goods, now at the center of a brewing international trade dispute, were imported into Nigeria by a Lagos-based businessman, Amuchi Obi, on behalf of over 50 traders at the Alaba International Market.
According to police sources, a high-powered team of Interpol detectives is being mobilized to China to collaborate with their Chinese counterparts in identifying and apprehending those responsible for the controversial shipment.
The investigation comes amid mounting pressure from aggrieved Nigerian traders who accuse Obi of complicity in the failed deal.
Obi, reportedly now in hiding, has denied any wrongdoing. He maintains that he merely acted as a facilitator in what was meant to be a legitimate bulk importation of solar panels from Hebei-Kewang Import and Export Trading Co. Ltd., a Chinese company with which he had been in contact since March 2025.
In a formal petition to the Inspector General of Police through his lawyer, B.O. Alaka, Obi narrated how the business transaction unfolded.
He said he engaged the Chinese company’s representatives, identified as Anne Wang and Karen Li, with detailed specifications for the panels needed, and was assured that the products were in stock and suitable for Nigeria’s market demands.
Subsequently, Obi made several payments into three foreign bank accounts associated with the company — a Deutsche Bank (Hong Kong) account (No. 9988001272902), a City Bank (Singapore) account (No. 1037040375552), and another Hong Kong account (No. 3996000334466).
However, upon arrival in Nigeria, the solar panels, delivered in nine shipping containers were found to be of the wrong specifications and in extremely poor condition. According to Obi’s petition, most of the products were outdated, damaged beyond repair, and of no commercial value.
“Despite the company’s acknowledgment of the faulty shipment and its initial agreement to send five replacement containers with the correct panels, nothing has been delivered to date,” the petition read. “Calls and follow-up messages to the company’s representatives have been ignored. It is now clear they are not only evasive but also indifferent to the serious consequences of their actions.”
Obi claims he has become a target of threats from fellow traders who collectively funded the importation deal. He expressed fear for his life and said he turned to Interpol as a last resort to either recover the funds or compel the Chinese supplier to fulfill its promise.
Efforts to contact Hebei-Kewang or the sales agents were unsuccessful. Phone numbers obtained by Nigerian authorities reportedly failed to connect, further fueling suspicions of fraud.
When reached for comment, the Commissioner of Police in charge of Interpol, Lagos, CP Bode Ojajuni, confirmed the development but declined to provide full details, citing the sensitivity of the case.
“We are investigating such a case, and our men will be going to China to discuss with our Chinese counterparts. That’s all I can tell you for now”, he said.
The incident has stirred growing concern within Nigeria’s import and trade community, particularly at Alaba International Market, where many fear becoming victims of similar cross-border scams. Traders are now calling for tighter oversight of foreign suppliers and improved mechanisms for dispute resolution in international business dealings.
Investigations into the case are ongoing.
