The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared a foreign national, Elie Bitar, wanted over his alleged involvement in a cryptocurrency investment scam linked to the online platform Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX).
In an official bulletin posted on social media on Wednesday, the EFCC announced that Bitar, aged 41, is suspected of orchestrating a fraudulent investment scheme that has deceived and defrauded numerous investors across Nigeria.
“The public is hereby notified that Elie Bitar, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for fraud allegedly perpetrated on an online trading platform called Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX),” the statement read.
The EFCC identified Bitar’s last known address as Eng. George Enemoh Crescent, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos State.
The notice was signed by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity for the anti-graft agency.
Public Assistance Requested
The EFCC has called on members of the public to assist in locating Bitar by reporting any useful information to its offices across Nigeria — including Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Gombe, and Port Harcourt.
Reports can also be made via phone at 08093322644 or email at info@efcc.gov.ng.
CBEX Under Scrutiny
Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX) had risen in popularity amid Nigeria’s booming interest in cryptocurrency trading. It attracted users with promises of quick and high returns. However, doubts quickly emerged regarding CBEX’s regulatory status, lack of transparency, and suspicious operations, prompting a deeper investigation by Nigerian authorities.
