Celebrity car dealer on FBI 'most wanted' list admits luxury vehicle scam

A celebrity car dealer who had been placed on the FBI’s ‘most wanted’ list faces up to 20 years in jail after pleading guilty to a £420,000 luxury vehicle sales scam.

Afzal Khan (38), who is originally from Edinburgh, handed himself into authorities in the United Arab Emirates in February and was flown back to the US after spending five years on the run.

The US District Court of New Jersey this week revealed that Khan – who is also known as “Bobby Khan” and had previously appeared on the Housewives of New Jersey reality television series – had pleaded guilty to a string of offences linked to Emporio Motor Group, in Ramsey, New Jersey.

US Attorney Craig Carpenito revealed that Khan had obtained loans from the auto finance division of a large bank for cars that he never delivered, but for which the purchaser was still responsible.

“Khan also obtained loans from the victim bank for cars that were delivered, but for which neither he nor Emporio had title,” he said.

“As a result, the purchasers of these cars were liable for the loans, but could not register the cars.

“In addition, Khan offered to sell cars for individuals on consignment, but did not return the cars or provide any money to the individuals from the sale of the cars.

“Khan admitted that as a result of his actions, he exposed the victim bank to a potential loss of at least $550,000.”

Edinburgh Live reported that Khan had appeared on American television in November to say he wanted to surrender to US authorities, but claimed his offers were being ignored by prosecutors.

In a video phone interview with the Fox News network, Khan said he had been hiding out in a country which has no extradition treaty with the US.

He said: "What more do I have to do? I'm basically practically begging you. I'm a fugitive from justice saying 'arrest me'.”