Benin City, Edo State – Justice M. Itsueli in Edo Court Convicts 15 Fraudsters to Jail, Orders Forfeiture of Luxury Cars and Bank Accounts
In a significant ruling aimed at curbing internet fraud, Justice M. Itsueli of the Edo State High Court convicts 15 fraudsters in Benin City to varying terms of imprisonment. Notably, the court found these convicts guilty of internet fraud and obtaining money under false pretences.
The Convicts and Their Charges
The individuals convicted include Seth Chukwumah, Hart James Okoh, Berta Aghogho Akpoveta, Obinna Okoh Patrick, Ugwoke Chinecherem Johnson, and Akpovona–Momoh Malcolm Oghenekome, among others. The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned them on separate one-count charges, ranging from fraudulent representation to unlawful possession of fraudulent documents.
The Legal Proceedings
One of the charges read, “Tsebi Princewill, between 2022 to 2023 in Benin City, did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Tony Richards, a white man.” This is an offence punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48, Laws of Bendel State (as applicable in Edo State) 1976.
Upon their arraignment, all defendants pleaded guilty, leading the prosecution counsel to request their immediate conviction and sentencing. However, defence counsel implored the court to temper justice with mercy.
The Sentences
Justice Itsueli handed down sentences ranging from six months to three years imprisonment, with options for fines. Specifically, Johnson and Obinna received six months imprisonment or a fine of N500,000 each. Chukwumah got two years imprisonment with an option of a N500,000 fine.
Asset Forfeiture and Bank Freezes
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of various luxury cars, mobile phones, and laptops, identified as proceeds of crime. They were forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria through the EFCC. Furthermore, the convicts’ bank accounts in multiple banks were permanently frozen, and the funds therein were also forfeited.
This landmark ruling serves as a stern warning to would-be internet fraudsters.
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