In early January 2022, the EFCC changed its domain name from
efccnigeria.org (which it has been for many years) to efcc.gov.ng
The effect of this is that any links To pages and articles on their
website that use efccnigeria.org as the domain, do not work. This
is a Kazillion of links to their site out in internet-land that no
longer work.
Either every single link to all of these articles and pages will
have to be changed and updated to the new domain ( efcc.gov.ng )
by every single site or webpage which linked to the old domain
( efccnigeria.org ) OR the EFCC will have to make Every Single
Page on its site accessible via BOTH the old and the new domains.
In short, the two domains will have to be made universally equivalent,
so that in effect, for all practical purposes, one is the same as
the other.
419 Coalition knows this can be done, as we did it on our Own site
when we changed our domain from home.rica.net/alphae/419coal to
419Coalition.org .
To be blunt, so far the "rollout" of this new domain by the EFCC
has been an absolute disaster for the agency, given that it has
kaputed Many Thousands of links to the EFCC site internet-wide.
We've told them this in no uncertain terms and have told them
they need to Fix this problem quickly so that ALL the links -
old domain and new domain - to their site and pages and articles
therein Do work.
We await developments..... but are not hopeful
*****************************************************
23 DEC 2022
EFCC Arrest 21-Year-old for Alleged €17,000 Fraud
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested one Irabor
Kennedy Osasogie for alleged fraud.
The 21-years old was arrested recently by the Commission
following a petition by one Antje, a German citizen, complaining
that the suspect defrauded her of €17,000. The petitioner claimed
that she met Osasogie through social media after she was defrauded
of €68,000 by one Michael Patrick. She alleged that Osasogie offered
to assist her in recovering the money but further defrauded her of
€17,000.
Upon arrest, the suspect claimed he only received €12,850 from
the petitioner.
The suspect will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
efcc-arrest-21-year-old-for-alleged-17-000-fraud
****************************************
22 DEC 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Jail Term, Forfeits Cars to FG
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday,
December 21, 2022, secured the conviction of one Thomas Osigbemeh,
an internet fraudster, before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State
High Court, Benin City.
Osigbemeh was arraigned on one count charge of personation by the
Benin Zonal Command of the Commission.
The charge against him reads: "that you, Thomas Osigbemeh sometime
between 2019 to 2020 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Jichag Wook, a
verified and legitimate Bitcoin Trader and thereby committed an
offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (As applicable in
Edo State) 1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, I.K. Agwai prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendant pleaded with the court to temper justice
with mercy as the client was a first-time offender who have become
remorseful for his action.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Osigbemeh to three
years imprisonment with an option of One Hundred Thousand Naira
as fine.
In addition, Osigbemeh is to forfeit one Lexus ES 350; a Lexus
RX350, two Laptops and one iPhone 7 to the Federal Government
of Nigeria. He is also to forfeit the sum of N72, 885.63 found
in his First Bank account and the balance of N 6,926.50 in United
Bank for Africa account to the Federal Government of Nigeria through
the EFCC, while the bank accounts are to be closed
In the same vein, the Benin Command on Tuesday December 20, 2022
arraigned one Opeyemi Michael Adeyemi before Justice Ikponwonba
for obtaining by false pretence.
Adeyemi is alleged to have defrauded one Mohammed Abubakar of
$520USD under the pretence of booking for an apartment in London.
The charge against reads: "That you, OPEYEMI MICHAEL ADEYEMI Sometime
in November, 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
with intent to defraud, did induce one Mohammed Abubakar to obtain
the sum of $520, (Five Hundred and Twenty Dollars) equivalent to
N290,000 for booking of apartment in London which was transferred
to your United Bank for Africa account number 2175103342, a representation
which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 1(1) (b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences
Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act."
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge and
was granted bail in the sum of One Million Naira and a surety in like
sum.
The matter was adjourned till February 14, 2023 for trial.
internet-fraudster-bags-jail-term-forfeits-cars-to-fg
*********************************************
15 DEC 2022
EFCC Sensitizes BUK Students on Cybersecurity
The Kano Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission has today sensitized 36 Criminology
and Security Studies students of Bayero University Kano
on cyber security and financial crime.
Heads of Cyber Crime Sections, CSE Sadiq Olamide and
CSE Musa Bashir Olalekan, lectured the students on the
rudiments of cybercrime and cybersecurity, trends,
vulnerabilities and how they can protect themselves
from becoming victims of cybercrime.
The deputy Zonal Commander, ACE 11 Ufen Sunday Imu who
represented the Zonal Commander, charged the students
to assist in propagating the anti-corruption message
to their fellow students especially in the area of
cyber-crime which is mostly being perpetrated by youth.
The EFCC Deputy Commander encouraged Nigerian youth
to use their ingenuity to develop Nigeria instead of
employing the same to defraud unsuspecting members
of the public.
Sunday finally urged the students to be good ambassadors
of the Commission by sharing the knowledge they have
acquired from the programme with their colleagues in
school who are not opportune to be part of the exercise.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-sensitizes-buk-students-on-cybersecurity
************************************
15 DEC 2022
Be Change Agents, Bawa Charges Corps Members
The Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Abdulrasheed Bawa, has called on members of the National Youth
Service Corps, NYSC, to be change agents and take ownership of
the war against economic and financial crimes, in order to save
the nation from its damaging effects.
He gave the charge on Thursday, December 15, 2022 in a lecture
entitled "EFCC And The Role of Youth in Curbing Corruption" for
members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, 2022 Batch
'C' Stream II, at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Yikpata, Edu Local
Government Area of Kwara State.
Bawa, whose sensitisation lecture was delivered by an Assistant
Commander of the EFCC, Ayodele Babatunde, Head, Public Affairs
Department of the Ilorin Zonal Office of the Commission admonished
the youth to resist the temptation of being lured into cybercrimes
warning that the end could be “perilous and shameful.
Also speaking through Aliyu Bako Doma, Head, Foreign Exchange
Malpractice Section, Port Harcourt Command at the National
Youths Service Corps Orientation Camp at Nonwa-gbam, Tai Local
Government Area, Rivers State, the EFCC boss urged the Corps
members to "become Anti-Corruption Ambassadors and role model
in your respective areas of primary assignments".
"Your energy can be harnessed for the good of the public
by being a whistleblower in your respective places of primary
assignments. The youths must not be mere public spectators
in the anti-graft campaign, rather, they should be responsible
soldiers chanting loud songs against corruption", he said.
At the Edo State Orientation Camp in Okada, Bawa who was
represented by Williams Oseghale, Head of Public Affairs,
Benin Zonal Command urged the Corps members to embrace hard
work as there was no shortcut to wealth and fame. "The fact
that the rate of unemployment is high should not be an excuse
to resort to crime. Acts of criminality might deliver wealth
in the short term but ultimately there will be misery and
gnashing of teeth."
He admonished the youth corps members to be more resourceful
and forward looking. "The internet does not necessarily have
to be an avenue to impersonate, manipulate or fabricate lies
to defraud others. Let the youths begin to use the internet
for socially desirable things, like offering digital solutions
to the needs of industries, homes, government and other engagement
of life," he said.
Superintendent of the EFCC SE Ngoundu Nguetar, who delivered
the Executive Chairman's message at Nasarawa State Orientation
Camp in Keffi, Nasarawa State reiterated the need for Corps
members to join hands with the EFCC in fighting economic
and financial crimes. He encouraged the Corps members to
embrace integrity and report all corrupt practices to law
enforcement agencies.
The Chairman appreciated the leadership of the NYSC for
giving the Commission the opportunity to interact with the
Corps members on the role they can play in curbing the menace
of corruption and sued for greater collaboration for lasting
impact.
The press release contains photos:
be-change-agents-bawa-charges-corps-members
***************************************
15 DEC 2022
Yahoo School Proprietor, 13 'Students' in EFCC's Net in Benin
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Thursday, December 15,
2022 arrested Ese Isaiah, proprietor of a 'Yahoo School',
and 13 of his 'students'.
The suspects are Alex Aimuanosa, Jeremiah Umoru, Destiny
Aghayere, Christian Oghenekevwe, Wisdom Christopher, Daniel
Matthew and Gift Patrick.
Others are Lucky Paul, Godspower Osatuohien, Edafe Isaiah,
John Elvis, Favour Oseghale and Osas Egho.
They were arrested in Benin City based on intelligence on
their alleged activities.
Items recovered from the suspects include mobile phones,
laptops and a Lexus ES350.
They have made useful statements and will be charged to
court as soon as the investigations are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
yahoo-school-proprietor-13-students-in-efcc-s-net-in-benin
419 Coalition comment: Now, this is the kind of story we like to
see, in which the Oga goes down with his trainees and underlings.
Good on the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC, and more grease to
your collective elbows :) More. More, More, of the same!
******************************************
14 DEC 2022
Convicted Internet Fraudster Forfeits N120m to FBI
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City
on Tuesday December 13, 2022 ordered the forfeiture of the
sum of N120,284,986.28 (One Hundred and Twenty Million, Two
Hundred and Eighty Four Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eight-six
Naira, Twenty-eight Kobo) found in the Keystone bank account
of a convicted fraudster, Oghenemine Agbroko to the Federal
government of Nigeria through the EFCC for onward delivery
to the nominal complainant, the Federal Bureau of Investigation,
FBI.
Agbroko was among five internet fraudster convicted and
sentenced five years imprisonment for fraud by Justice
Ikonmwonba.The others are Kennedy Uwuigbe, Odiase Osariemen
Christian, Collins Edobor and Ebichuwa Victory Ovie.
They were arraigned separately on one count charge bordering
on retention of proceeds of crime, personation and unlawful
possession of fraudulent documents by the Benin Zonal Command
of the EFCC.
The charge against Agbroko reads: "that you, Jeffrey Oghenemine
Agbroko (m) on or about 12th November, 2021 in Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did retain the sum
of N120,284,986.28 (One Hundred and Twenty Million, Two Hundred
and Eighty-Four Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eighty six naira,
Twenty Eight Kobo) in your bank account number 6033867739
domiciled in Keystone Bank Ltd knowing that same represent
proceeds of your criminal conduct to wit: Cybercrime and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
17(b) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
(Establishment) Act 2004".
The charge against Kennedy Uwuigbe reads: "that you, Kennedy
Uwuigbe sometimes between 2017 to 4th August, 2022 in Benin
City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be
Luka Romero, a white man and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 48, Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (As applicable
in Edo State) 1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their
respective charge.
In view of their plea, the prosecution counsel, Francis.A.Jirbo,
F.O. Dibang and I.K. Agwai prayed the court to convict and sentenced
them accordingly. However, the defence counsel, Pascal Ugbome,
pleaded with the Court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants
were first-time offenders who have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Agbroko and Collins
Edobor to five years in imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred
Thousand Naira fine each.
The trio Uwuigbe, Christian and Ovie bagged three years imprisonment
or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira each.
The quartet of Uwuigbe, Christian, Edobor and Ovie are to forfeit
the aggregate sum of N12,322.476.72 and $954.02 USD worth of Bitcoin,
two Mercedes Benz cars, a Toyota Camry car, $2000USD and mobile
phones, all being proceeds and instruments of crime to the Federal
Government of Nigeria through the EFCC.
The court also ordered that the bank accounts used in committing
the crime be closed.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
convicted-internet-fraudster-forfeits-n120m-to-fbi
******************************************
12 DEC 2022
Court Convicts 27 Internet Fraudsters in Oyo, Ogun
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and
sentencing of twenty-seven cybercriminals to various
terms ranging from one to eighteen months community
service, one year imprisonment and fine in Ogun and
Oyo States respectively.
The convicts were prosecuted before Justices Bayo Taiwo,
Omolara Adeyemi, Ladiran Akintola and Mohammed Owolabi
of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan and Justice Mosunmola
Dipeolu of the Ogun State High Court, Abeokuta.
The convicts are Abdullahi Ayomide Obigbesan, Olaoye
Segun Fashola, Olasantan Precious Ayomide, Adeleke
Ayomide Olamilekan, Sidiku Ismail Olubudun, Wasiu Adewale
Onabanjo, Akande Adeniran Babatunde, Bello Mustapha Abidemi,
Damilare Adewale Balogun, Azeez Omogbolahan Nofiu, Balogun
Azeez Damilola, Olawale Sodiq Olayiwola, Ibrahim Nasirudeen
Abiola and Ibrahim Sulaiman Olanrewaju.
Others are: Olasunkanmi Sanni Adeyemi, Diyaolu Olamide
Samuel, Ojo Segun Michael, Fasasi Olanrewaju Elias, Olusoji
Bankole Kelly, Abdullahi Kehinde Tawab, Hammed Dauda Akanji,
Samson Oyebode Ayilara, Sanni Taiwo Ayomide, Ogunbanjo Owolabi
Ayodele, Ademola Olamilekan Salami, Fatai Usman Ayomide and
Wasiu Muyideen Omotayo.
They were all prosecuted on one count charge each which
bordered on impersonation and obtaining property by false
pretence.
Upon their arraignment, they all pleaded "guilty" to the
charges filed against them by the Commission.
Afterwards, facts of the cases were reviewed as the courts
were urged to convict and sentence the defendants as charged.
Consequently, Fasasi and Olubudun were convicted and sentenced
to one year imprisonment each, Ibrahim Sulaiman to nine months
imprisonment, Balogun Azeez to three months imprisonment, Onabanjo,
Akande, Bello and Nofiu to six months jail term each.
Also, Ayilara and Omotayo were convicted and sentenced to
eighteen months community service each while Sanni and Ogunbanjo
bagged one year community service each.
Furthermore, Akanji, Adeyemi, Diyaolu, Ojo Segun, Kelly,
Olayiwola, Abiola, Salami, Fatai and Fashola were convicted
and sentenced to six months community service each; Olasantan,
Adeleke and Balogun to three months community service each,
while Tawab bagged one month community service. Obigbesan
was ordered to pay the sum of N150, 000. 00k (One Hundred
and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine.
Also, the convicts were ordered to restitute their various
victims and forfeit items recovered from them, including the
sum of N16.3million domiciled in the Guaranty Trust bank and
Ecobank accounts of Fasasi Olanrewaju Elias, to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
court-convicts-27-internet-fraudsters-in-oyo-ogun
************************************************
9 DEC 2022
'Transgender' Bags Two Year Jail Term for Internet Fraud
in Makurdi
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, December 8, 2022, secured the
conviction and sentencing of one Oblete Sunday Nazarethe before
Justice N. I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court, Lafia, Nasarawa
State on one count charge bordering on Internet fraud.
The charge reads: "That you, Oblete Sunday Nazarethe sometime
in May, 2021 in Makurdi, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court fraudulently impersonated one Christopher Conway through his
Instagram username with screenshot No-20210519024301.png claiming
to be a transgender with intent to gain advantage for yourself and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2)(b)(i) and
punishable under Section 22 (2)(b)(iv) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition
Prevention etc) Act, 2015".
The defendant pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
Upon his plea, the prosecution counsel, M. Yusuf prayed the Court
to convict and sentence him as charged.
Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced Nazarethe to two years
imprisonment with an option of fine of N100, 000.00.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
transgender-bags-two-year-jail-term-for-internet-fraud-in-makurdi
***************************************
7 DEC 2022
Court Sends Four Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin
... Arraigns Another for Fraud
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City
on Tuesday December 6, 2022 convicted and sentenced four internet
fraudsters to prison for fraud.
They are Raymond Oghosa Ogiemwonyi, Chata Okoro, Osagie Ogiemwonyi
and Chukwudi Uwadia. They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command
of the EFCC on separate one count charges of retention of proceeds
of crime and personation.
The charge against Ogiemwonyi reads: "that you Raymond Oghosa
Ogiemwonyi sometime between May, 2022 to 13th October, 2022 in
Benin City within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
did take possession of the total sum of Eight Million, Two
Hundred and Seventeen Thousand, Seventy-six Naira Eighty-eight
Kobo (N8,217,076.88) knowing that same represents proceeds of
Clinton Nosakhare's ( your chairman) criminal conduct to wit;
Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary to and
punishable under Section 17 (b) of the Economic and Financial C
rimes Commission (Establishment ) Act 2004".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their
respective charge.
In view of their plea, prosecution counsel, K.U. Udus and I.K.
Agwa prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
However, the defence counsel, Chris Otasome pleaded with the
court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants were
first-time offenders and have become remorseful for their
actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Oghosa Ogiemwonyi,
Osagie Ogiemwonyi, Chata Okoro to three years in prison with
an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira each while Chukwudi
Uwadia bagged two years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred
Thousand Naira only
The convicts are to forfeit a Lexus RS350, 2010 model car,
the balance of Nine Thousand One Hundred and Seven Naira
Fifty- one Kobo (N9,107.51) found in Raymond Oghosa
Ogiemwonyi's Access bank account; one Laptop and phones
being proceeds of crime to the Federal government of Nigeria.
In a similar development, the Benin Zonal. Command on December
6, 2022 arraigned one Victor Omeni Njoku on a count charge of
possession of proceeds of crime before Justice Ikponmwonba
The charge against him reads: "that you, Victor Omeni Njoku
(M) (trading under the name and style of Adon projects NIG)
on or about 16th December 2021 in Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did have in your
possession the sum of Ten Million Naira (N10,000,000) in
your bank account number 5600175843 domiciled in Fidelity
Bank Plc, transferred from United Bank for Africa bank
account of Aigboboh Sylvester knowing that same represent
proceeds of Mrs Margaret Nwabueze's criminal conduct to
wit; obtaining by false pretense and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under section 17(b)
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( Establishment)
Act 2004".
Upon arraignment, he pleaded not guilty to the charge
prompting the prosecution counsel, I.K. Agwai to pray the
court to remand the defendant at the Correctional Centre
and fix a date for trial .However counsel to the defendant
pleaded with the court to grant his client bail as the
alleged offence was a bailable.
Justice Ikponmwonba granted the defendant bail in the sum
of one million naira with a surety in like sum. The surety
must be gainfully employed and shall be verified by both
the court registrar and the EFCC
The case was adjourned till January 10, 2023 for hearing.
The press release contains photos:
ourt-sends-four-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin-arraigns-another-for-fraud
419 Coalition comment: We are interested in what happened
the 419er "Chairman" Clinton Nosakhare and possible Chairlady
Mrs Margaret Nwabueze. Possibly a later follow up press
release will contain this information, or perhaps the info
was given in an earlier press release that we can't recall
offhand. But we are always interested in reporting on
419er Chairmen, Ogas, etc.
****************************************
6 DEC 2022
[The date focen for the press release is
6 JUL 2022 for some reason]
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court on December
6, 2022 convicted and sentenced one Alfred Kelvin Paul to five
months imprisonment for destroying evidence.
He was convicted after he pleaded guilty to an amended one count
charge.
The charge reads: "That you, Alfred Kelvin Paul sometime in June
2022, at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
during the process of effecting arrest on you by the officials
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission deliberately
destroyed your iPhone 11 Pro with the intention of preventing
same from being produced or used as evidence in court and you
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 129 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017”.
The fraudster ran into trouble when he smashed his phone (iPhone
11 Pro) in the course of his arrest by operatives of the Kaduna
Zonal Command of the EFCC. He later confessed he took the step
to prevent EFCC officials from discovering that he had been
convicted for fraud and that his accomplice logged onto the
Snapchat application with a fake name, Charlotte White, using
his phone.
Based on his plea, Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced Alfred
to a term of five months imprisonment without an option of fine.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
fraudster-bags-five-months-for-destroying-evidence-in-kaduna
****************************************
6 DEC 2022
[The date given for the press release is
6 JUL 2022 for some reason}
EFCC Arrest 19-Year-old for Alleged £450,000.00 Fraud
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has arrested one Iredia Endurance for alleged
fraud.
Endurance, who claimed to be 19-years old was recently arrested
by the Commission sequel to a petition by one Christine Brown,
a British citizen, alleging that the suspect defrauded her of
£450,000.00.
Upon arrest, the suspect confessed he received £250,000.00
from the complainant in Bitcoin, FedEx and gift cards.
On what he did with the money, the suspect averred that they
were expanded on cars, gold chains, and landed properties,
among others.
Some of the items recovered from the suspect include mobile
phones, laptops, sim cards and landed property.
The suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrest-19-year-old-for-alleged-450-000-00-fraud
***************************************
5 DEC 2022
Alleged $1.4m Fraud: Absence of Defence Counsel Stalls Trial
of defendants In Lagos
The trial of one Kolawole Adedayo Erinle, alongside his firm,
Rinde-Remdex Nigeria Limited, for an alleged $1.4m fraud before
Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in
Ikeja, Lagos could not continue on Monday, December 5, 2022
due to the absence of the counsel for the second defendant.
Erinle, who is standing trial on a three-count charge bordering
on conspiracy, retention of proceeds of criminal conduct, and
obtaining money under false pretence to the tune of $1,410,000
(One Million Four-Hundred and Ten Thousand United States Dollars),
was earlier arraigned before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the
Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on March 11, 2022.
However, the trial could not be concluded before the retirement
of Justice Taiwo, thereby prompting the reassignment of the case
to Justice Oshodi.
The defendant is alleged to have defrauded the Kansas City
University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB) in the United
States of about $1,412,509 USD.
One of the charges reads: "Kolawole Adedayo Erinle and Edward
Dada (still at large), sometime in 2019, at Lagos, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired to falsely
represent yourselves as J.E. Dunn, a local construction company
in America, with intent to gain monetary advantage in the sum
of $1,410,000 (One Million Four-Hundred and Ten Thousand United
States Dollars) by creating a fake domain name jedunn.org and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 8 of the Advance
Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act No 14, 2006."
Another count reads: "Kolawole Adedayo Erinle, Rinde-Remdex
Nigeria Limited and Edward Dada (still at large) on or about
the 3rd day of May 2019, at Lagos, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, retain the control of $1,410,000
(One Million Four-Hundred and Ten Thousand United States
Dollars) in your Access Bank account, which sum you knew to
be proceeds of various internet and cybercrime."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges when he was arraigned
before Justice Oshodi on October 4, 2022, thereby leading to
the commencement of his trial.
At today's proceedings, the prosecuting counsel, T.J. Banjo,
informed the court that the prosecution had two witnesses in
court.
He also stated that he received a letter from the defence in
which it was stated that Olayinka Farounbi, counsel for the
second defendant, is "sick and hospitalised", and that he
won't be available for the continuation of the trial.
"I received the copy of the letter forwarded to me yesterday
night by counsel to the first defendant, Lawal Pedro, SAN,
but my witnesses were already in Lagos for today's proceedings,"
he said.
According to him, the defence requested that dates already
fixed for trial in December 2022 be vacated, and suggested
dates in February 2023.
Consequently, Justice Oshodi adjourned the matter till February
3, 7, 9 and 10, 2023, noting that "trial was aborted due to the
absence of the counsel for the second defendant."
alleged-1-4m-fraud-absence-of-defence-counsel-stalls-trial-of-defendants-in-lago
*****************************************************
5 DEC 2022
Judge’s Absence Stalls Zaura's Arraignment
The arraignment of Abdulsalam Saleh Abdulkarim, the Kano Central
senatorial candidate of the All Progressive Congress, could not
go on today due to the absence of the judge.
Zaura was scheduled to be arraigned before the Federal High Court
Kano on allegation of $1,320,000 (One Million, Three Hundred and
Twenty Thousand Dollars) fraud.
At the last adjourned date, the arraignment was also stalled due
to Zaura's absence, the third time he would fail to appear before
the court.
The Supreme Court also rejected his application to stay proceedings
of the trial court and ordered him through his counsel, to present
himself before the Federal High Court Kano for arraignment.
At the resumed hearing today, counsel for the prosecution Ahmed
Arogha appeared in court for the arraignment of the defendant
but was informed that the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed
Yunusa was attending a seminar in Lagos.
The matter was then adjourned until the 30th January, 2023.
The Commission is prosecuting Zaura for defrauding a Kuwaiti
Citizen of $1,320,000 (One Million Three Hundred and Twenty
Thousand Dollars) under the pretext that he is into properties
business in Dubai, Kuwait and other Arab countries.
The press release contains photos:
judge-s-absence-stalls-zaura-s-arraignment
*****************************************
5 DEC 2022
Quzeem Bags Six Months for Love Scam
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Command, on Monday December 5, 2022, arraigned one Subar Quzeem
before Justice F.A. Aliyu of the High Court of the FCT, Apo,
Abuja, on one count charge bordering on internet fraud.
The charge reads: "That you, Subar Quzem ‘M’ 20 years, sometime
in 2022 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court
while pretending to be a white lady named Lilly Connie aka CLM
cheated by inducing JJ and Pumpkin to deliver to you the sum
of $150USD (One Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars) and
$400USD (Four Hundred United States Dollars) respectively in
the guise of offering sexual services which you knew to be false
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 320(b)
and punishable under Section 322 of Penal Code Act, Laws of the
Federation of Nigeria (Abuja)".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Based on his plea, the prosecuting counsel urged the court to
convict him as charged.
But defence counsel, Angela Odey prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy, stating that the defendant is a first time
offender with no previous criminal record.
Justice Aliyu thereafter convicted and sentenced Quzeem to six
months in prison with an option of fine of N100, 000 (One Hundred
Thousand Naira) and one month community service to be supervised
by a guarantor. Failure to perform the service, the said guarantor
shall pay a fine of N100, 000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira).
The proceeds of the crime recovered from him were ordered
forfeited to the federal government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
quzeem-bags-six-months-for-love-scam
*******************************************
2 DEC 2022
Fake Italian Engineer Jailed Six Months for €20,000 Scam in Abuja
An internet fraudster who defrauded his victim of €20,000 whilst
posing as an Italian Engineer has been convicted upon arraignment
by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The Abuja Zonal
Command of the anti-graft agency on Thursday December 1, 2022
docked Areh Ikenna Christian before Justice Aliyu Yunusa Shafa
of the High Court of the FCT Gwagwalada Abuja on one count charge
of fraudulent impersonation.
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
Areh alias Chris Hakikiene used the social media Apps, Facebook
and WhatsApp with international number +971504720129 and posed
as an Italian engineer working at sea. With the false identity,
he induced an unsuspecting Anna Bushare to deliver €20, 000
(Twenty Thousand Euros) to him to maintain his health and working
machines, after he made her believe he was in love with her.
The offence is contrary to Section 320(a) of Penal Code Laws
of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) and punishable under Section
322 of the same Laws.
Following his plea, Justice Shafa convicted and sentenced Areh
to 6 months imprisonment or a fine of N300,000 (Three Hundred
Thousand Naira only). He is also to sign a 2-year bond with the
court to be of good behaviour.
fake-italian-engineer-jailed-six-months-for-20-000-scam-in-abuja
*******************************************
2 DEC 2022
Two Arraigned for Internet Fraud in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Command on Thursday, December 1, 2022, arraigned the duo of Orji
Kenechukwu Emmanuel and Samuel Okwo Mark before Justice Aliyu
Yunusa Shafa of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory,
Gwagwalada Abuja for alleged cyber related crimes
Orji is alleged to have pretended to be Kohler Kaycee, a Gabonese
national and induced one Albert Leo Martino to deliver $149 USD
(One Hundred and Forty Nine United States Dollars) to him with
claims to invest in a crypto trading company.
Okwo on the other hand, impersonated a Federal Bureau of Investigation,
FBI agent named Sarah and cheated one Arnold who delivered $500 USD
(Five Hundred United States Dollars) to him for his personal use.
Both offences run contrary to Section 320(a) of Penal Code Laws of
the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) and punishable under Section 322
of the same Law.
They both pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Following their pleas, Justice Shafa admitted them to bail in the
sum of N1, 000,000 (One Million Naira) with 2 sureties in like sum.
The sureties, one of whom must be a civil servant of not less than
Grade level 8, must be resident in Abuja.
The case was adjourned till December 9, 2022 for commencement
of trial.
two-arraigned-for-internet-fraud-in-abuja
******************************************
2 DEC 2022
Internet Fraudster Convicted In Makurdi
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, December 1, 2022, secured the
conviction and sentencing of one Odokor Andrew before Justice
N. I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court, Lafia, Nasarawa State
on one count charge bordering on Internet fraud.
The charge reads: "That you, Odokor Andrew sometime in July 2022
in Makurdi, Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court with intent to defraud sent electronic messages to one ERVIN,
an unsuspected foreigner, that materially misrepresented facts
which reliance was place upon and caused her a loss, thereby
committed an offence, contrary to Section 14(2) of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition Prevention etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under the
same Section of the Act".
The defendant pleaded “guilty” to the charge.
Upon his plea, the prosecution counsel, M. Yusuf prayed the
Court to convict and sentence him as charged.
Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced Andrew to pay a fine of
N100, 000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) with a warning to desist
from any criminal act forthwith.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-convicted-in-makurdi
*************************************
30 NOV 2022
Nasarawa Court Sends Internet Fraudster To Jail
Justice N.I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court sitting in Lafia,
Nasarawa State has convicted and sentenced one Adikpe Philip to
jail for internet fraud.
He was jailed on Wednesday, November 30, 2022 after pleading
guilty to one-count charge bordering on internet fraud, upon
his arraignment by the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge reads: "That you, Adikpe Philip, sometime in July,
2022 in Makurdi, Benue State Nigeria within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud sent electronic
messages to one Keith Anderson and other foreign nationals,
that materially misrepresented facts which reliance was place
upon and caused them to suffer loss, thereby committed an
offence, contrary to Section 14 (2) of Cybercrime (Prohibition
Prevention etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under the same section
of the Act".
The defendant pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
Upon his plea, the prosecution counsel, M. Yusuf prayed the
Court to convict and sentence him as charged.
Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced him to one year
imprisonment or a fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand
Naira).
The convict started his journey to the Correctional Centre
when he was arrested by operatives of the Makurdi Zonal
Command of the EFCC for impersonating foreigners and using
their identities to defraud other foreigners.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
nasarawa-court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail
****************************************
30 NOV 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Six Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Six internet fraudsters, Olumide Oluwalogbon, Tony Osarobo
Inedegbor, Emaiku Paul Michael, Godfrey Emenike Okoye, Owanikin
Damilola, Emaiku Sunday Micheal were on Tuesday, November 29,
2022, convicted and sentenced to prison by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba
of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on separate one count
charge of personation, possession of fraudulent documents and
obtaining by false pretence.
The charge against Michael reads: "That you, Emaiku Paul Michael
(M) on the 6th of day of June, 2022 in Benin, Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud
did knowingly have in your possession documents containing false
pretences and misrepresentation and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 8 read
together with Section 1(3) of the same Act".
The charge against Damilola reads: "That you, Owanikin Damilola
(M) on or about the 2nd day of June, 2022 in Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did have in your
possession on your iPhone 12 with, IMEl No:35311700200997
documents which you knew or ought to have known contain a
false pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related
Offences Act 2006 and punishable under section 1 (3) of the
same Act".
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Francis. A.
Jirbo, F .O Dibang, K. U. Udus and I. K Agwai, urged the courts
to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the trio of Okoye,
Sunday, and Inedegbor to three years imprisonment with an option
of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) fine each.
Michael was sentenced to one year imprisonment or a fine of
Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) while the duo of
Olumide and Damilola were sentenced to two years and five
years imprisonment respectively or a fine of One Hundred
Thousand Naira (N100,000) each.
The judge ordered the forfeiture of phones belonging to the
defendants being instrument of crime and the sum of One Million,
Thirty Thousand, Nine Hundred and Sixty-six Naira, Ninety-eight
Kobo (N 1,030,966.98) found in the Zenith Bank of Olumide to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
efcc-secures-conviction-of-six-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
*******************************************
29 NOV 2022
Yahoo Boy Lands in Jail, Loses N24.3m Cash,
Three Exotic Cars in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on November 28, 2022 secured
the conviction of a 30-year-old man, Yusuf Yusuf Olarewaju,
a native of Erin-Ile in Oyun Local Government Area of
Kwara State for offences bordering on internet fraud.
Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court sitting
in Ilorin found Olarewaju guilty of the one count charge brought
against him by the anti-graft agency.
Consequently, the judge sentenced him to 6 months imprisonment
with option of fine of N200,000. The court also forfeited all
the instruments used by the convict to perpetrate the crime,
including the proceeds of crime - a Mercedes Benz GLK 2010
model; a Toyota Camry 2013 model; a Toyota Corolla 2005 model,
iphone 14 promax and the sum of N24,364,860 (Twenty Four
Million, Three Hundred and Sixty Four Thousand, Eight Hundred
and Sixty Naira).
Olarewaju’s journey to jail started on October 23, 2022
when he was arrested following actionable intelligence
about the activities of syndicates of fraudsters operating
in Erin-Ile and environs.
Investigation revealed that Olarewaju, while using a
fraudulent email, ksmithkatie27@gmail.com, posed as one
Smith Katie, a white female from Missouri, USA, to strike
relationships with one James Gibson (Jimmy) and Stephen
Speer, both of whom he swindled to the tune of $30,000
USD between 2021 and 2022.
The defendant did not only confessed to the crime, but
also pleaded guilty when he was arraigned in court on
November 11, 2022.
At the resumed sitting of the case on Monday, Justice
Yusuf said he had carefully evaluated the facts of the
case; the guilty plea entered by the defendant; the
extra-judicial statements of the defendant as well as
the exhibits tendered in evidence and was convinced that
there were justifiable reasons to convict the defendant.
Consequently, the judge pronounced him guilty.
Justice Yusuf, while sentencing the convict said he
found merit in the prosecution's case adding that the
defence plea that, "the convict had left 'yahoo business'
since January 2022, and that the cars recovered from him
were intended to start up car business" were not sufficient
to set him free.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
yahoo-boy-lands-in-jail-loses-n24-3m-cash-three-exotic-cars-in-ilorin
*******************************************
28 NOV 2022
Corps Member, 38 Others Convicted for Internet Fraud in Ogun, Oyo
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of
a Corps member, Osisi Ikenna Nicholas to one month community
service for his involvement in internet-related fraud.
Osisi was convicted alongside thirty – eight others on a separate
one count charge each before Justices Bayo Taiwo, Omolara Adeyemi,
Ladoke Akintola, Mohammed Owolabi of the Oyo State High Court,
Ibadan and Justice Opeyemi Sobowale of the Ogun State High Court,
Abeokuta between November 21, 2022 and November 25, 2022.
The sentences range from a fine, one to six months community
service, and one year imprisonment.
Other convicts are Christopher Ehiabhi Ogbidi, Odewale Johnson
Olumide, Akinade Adeyeye Gbolahan Muyiwa, Chukwudi Emeka Samuel,
Ehinmowo Stephen Segun, Emmanuel Oluchukwu, Aboaba Olawale Joshua,
Akinba Oluwafemi Clement, Ayobami Temidayo Yusuf, Moshood Adeyinka
Hammed, Gbolahan Oluwasegun Ogunseitan, Ojo Aduragbemi Emmanuel,
Adeosun Amos Adeoye, Opeyemi Gbenga Omoyemi, Owolabi Gbadamosi
Moses, Opeyemi Timilehin Akorede, Olawale Sodiq Adeniyi, Oluwaseun
Samuel Aboaba, Abidemi Nasir Idris and Odewale Akindele Damilola.
The rest are Afolabi Jamiu Oluwadamilare, Adekomaya Adedoyin Eniola,
Kazeem Babajide Remilekun, Mustapha Adewumi Ayoade, Ajani Quareeb
Ajibola, Aineribhokun Abel Ernest, Isaac Chinedu Isaiah, Christopher
Osarhemen Ivuogbe, Dauda Kareem Oladayo, Basit Azeez Akande, Atilade
Stephen Ogunniyi, Temidayo Emmanuel Eyinla, Ajuwon Omobola Ibrahim,
Adisa Ibrahim Olasunkanmi, Akande Damilare Peter and Salami Victor
Gbnega.
They all pleaded "guilty" to the charges filed against them by
the EFCC.
Upon their pleas, prosecution counsel, Modupe Akinkoye, Oyelakin
Oyediran, Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Chidi Okoli, Musa Galadanchi,
Shamsuddeen Bashir, Mabas Mabur and Abbulrasheed Suleiman reviewed
the facts of the cases, tendered several documents in evidence
and urged the courts to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly.
Consequently, Ajuwon, Ogunseitan and Ogunniyi were convicted
and sentenced to one year imprisonment each, Akinba to three
months imprisonment while Salami, Akande Damilare, Aineribhokun,
Odewale Akindele, Nasir, Akorede, Owolabi, OJo and Makinde bagged
six months community service each.
Furthermore, Adisa, Basit Azeez, Ivuogbe, Ajibola, Moshood
and Yusuf were convicted and sentenced to five months community
service each. Eyinla, Isaac, Omoyemi, Ogbidi, Oluchukwu, Afolabi,
Adekomaya, Ayoade, Ayoade, Oloyede and Olawale Joshua were
sentenced to three months community service each while Oladayo
bagged four months community service.
Also, Adeoye was convicted and sentenced to one month imprisonment
and one month community service, Akinade to two months community
service, Aboaba and Olawale to one month community service each
while Odewale Johnson, Chukwudi and Ehinmowo were convicted and
ordered to pay N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira)
fine each.
The convicts were ordered to restitute their various victims
and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
corps-member-38-others-convicted-for-internet-fraud-in-ogun-oyo
*****************************************
25 NOV 2022
EFCC Secures 3328 Convictions in 11 Months- Bawa
Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC Abdulrasheed Bawa on Thursday, November 24, 2022 disclosed
that the Commission has secured 3328 convictions so far in the
course of the year.
[419 Coaition comment: And how many of that number were 419
criminals? How many were low level "yahoo-yahoo" boys? How
many were Ogas and Chairmen? How much money was recovered?
How much of that was verifiably repatriated?]
He made this disclosure in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, while
declaring open a one-day Training Workshop on Financial Crimes
Reporting for Journalists, in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria.
According to him, the EFCC has secured 3328 convictions as at
November 18, 2022 and got the court to forfeit the sum of N755
million recovered from a former Accountant- General of the
Federation, three luxury properties from Colonel Bello Fadile
(retd), former aide to former National Security Adviser, Sambo
Dasuki.
"We also secured interim forfeiture of 40 assets in Nigeria,
United States of America, London and Dubai belonging to former
deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu. Two weeks earlier,
another court issued a final forfeiture order of two properties
within Abuja belonging to Diezani Alison- Madueke, former
minister of petroleum resources. These are just a few of the
assets recovered for the Federal Government of Nigeria alone.
From January to November 18, 2022, EFCC has recorded 3328 c
onvictions."
Bawa who spoke through the Port Harcourt Zonal Commander of
the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE Nwanneka Nwokike,
stated that the workshop was organized to enhance capacity of
journalists in the discharge of their duties and deepen
relationship between the Commission and the media.
"We are not resting on our oars. We believe there is still work
to be done, which is why we are actively seeking support of all
stakeholders, including the media. I enjoin members of the public,
including the media, to be part of this effort by reporting cases
of corruption to the EFCC.
[419 Coalition comment: Oh, there is no lack of 419 ctime
reports to the EFCC. Every single 419 email that is forwarded
to the EFCC is a crime report. And there are Kazillions ot
those.]
Explaining further the EFCC boss stated that, "the duty of
reporting financial crimes requires urgency as we approach
the 2023 general election, when our nation shall be electing
a new set of leaders. The political recruitment process is
vital to the anti-corruption cause as picking leaders with
integrity deficit could imperil the campaign and erode the
gains of the past few years."
Speaking on the topic “Challenges of Prosecuting Economic
and Financial Crimes in Nigeria”, ACE S. M. H. Ibekwute,
says the EFCC faces several challenges when it comes to
prosecuting economic and financial crimes in the nation.
Some of the hitches, Ibekwute said, include, witness fatigue
in the course of prosecution, transfer/retirements of
judges/prosecutors, financial constraints, among others.
[419 Coalition comment: Gee, every law enforcement organization
and every government in the world has all the above problems
too... what each needs to do is figure out how to Deal
with such problems and still get its job done.]
He therefore enjoined the press to collaborate with the
Commission in the fight against corruption, stressing that,
"with your commitment and co-operation with the EFCC, the
prosecutorial difficulties staring us in the face would be
resolved."
Speaking also, on "Best Practices in Financial Crimes Reporting",
ACE Dele Oyewale charged participants to ramp up their reporting
of economic and financial crimes and be more professional. He
specifically noted that there are unreported, under- reported
and un- followed up crimes and challenged every participant to
be more enterprising in their reporting.
[419 Coalition comment: EFCC suffers from no lack of 419 crime
reports. Every 419er email that is sent in is a 419 crime report,
and should be treated as such. So, though we agree that every
single 419 crime should be reported, for the EFCC to imply that
they are not getting Enough reports when in fact they are getting
way more than they can even attempt to handle is.... misleading.]
"There is rising dynamics and sophistication in criminality
across the world. The media must keep pace with these strides.
Generally speaking, there are Unreported, Under- Reported and
Un- followed up crimes. The media should be ahead of law
enforcement agencies in the investigative reporting of crimes",
he said.
[419 Coalition comment: Surely the EFCC is not suggesting that
the media should do the investigating of 419 crimes for them?
What is hades does it mean when it says "The media should be
ahead of law enforcement agencies in the investigative reporting
of crimes"? Inquiring minds want to know.]
In his presentations, Head, Cyber Crime Section, EFCC Headquarters,
ACE Nuru Buhari Dalhatu gave vivid descriptions of the typologies
of cybercrimes across the world and exposed deep working secrets
of hackers. "There is no system hackers cannot tamper with. What
is important is for individuals and organisations to be vigilant
and keep codes of their systems secret", he said.
He assured the public that "At the EFCC, we are ahead of cyber
criminals because we are trained and equipped to burst their
operations all the time. Without good working knowledge of cyber
operations, it is not possible to fight criminals in that corridor".
[419 Coaltion comment: Yes, the EFCC is "ahead" of the "yahoo-
yahoo" boy class of cyber criminals, though they are overwhelemed
by the sheer numbers of them. But are they ahead of the Ogas and
Chairmen running the 419 syndicates at home and abroad? Well,
that is another matter..... ]
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-secures-3328-convictions-in-11-months-bawa
**************************************
25 NOV 2022
Snapchat Porn Actress, Teenager Jailed for Cybercrime
in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, November 24, 2022 secured the
conviction of one Daniel Atekojo James, who claimed to be a
female Black American on Snapchat and one Atadoga Samuel from
Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State for offences bordering
on internet related fraud before Justice Sani of the Federal
High Court, Ilorin.
Daniel, 28 and Atadoga, 18 were arrested on June 3, 2022 at
Lokoja following actionable intelligence on their fraudulent
activities.
The convicts, who were prosecuted separately on one count
charge pleaded guilty to their respective charge.
The Charge against Daniel reads: “"hat you, DANIEL ATEKOJO
JAMES sometime in March 2022 in Lokoja, Kogi State within
the judicial division of the Federal High Court did fraudulently
impersonate one Karma Jones with intent to gain advantage for
yourself from one Tyler whom you chatted with via your Snap
Chat application linked email karmaardee193@gmail.com and did
gained $115 thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
22(2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition prevention Etc.)
Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the
same Act."
Particulars of the charge against Atadoga read: "That you,
ATADOGA SAMUEL on or about 2nd day of May 2022 in Lokoja,
Kogi State within the judicial division of the Federal High
Court did fraudulently impersonate one Alaina Hicks alias
big honey with intent to gain advantage for yourself from
one Amerone whom you chatted with via your Snap Chat
application linked to your email address bighoney2033@gmail.com
and did gained $25 thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition prevention
Etc.) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of
the same Act."
Counsel to the EFCC, Rashidat Alao, while stating the facts
of the case told the court how credible intelligence led to
the arrest of defendants at Dekina and Olamaboro Local Government
Areas of the Kogi State.
She tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants,
mobile phones and several fraudulent messages printed from
their devices, which were admitted in evidence.
Thereafter, Alao urged the court to convict the defendants
based on their admittance of guilt; the extra-judicial statements
and all the exhibits tendered, which were not challenged by the
defence.
In his judgment, Justice Sani sentenced Daniel to eight months
imprisonment with option of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand
Naira Only). The Judge ordered that one Techno Phone used to
perpetrate the crime and the sum of $150 USD (One Hundred and
Fifty US Dollars) which he benefited from the unlawful activities
be forfeited to the Federal Government.
On the other hand, the judge sentenced Atadoga to six months
imprisonment with option of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred
Thousand Naira Only). The Court ordered that one Gionee S10
Phone recovered from defendant at the point of arrest and the
sum of Twenty-Five US Dollars, which he benefited from the
unlawful activities be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
snapchat-porn-actress-teenager-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
******************************************
25 NOV 2022
EFCC Partners Citizen and Leadership Training Centre
to Rehabilitate Youths, Ex-Convicts
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa has concluded plans to roll
out programmes aimed at rehabilitating ex-convicts, most of whom
are youths that have been convicted for internet fraud related
offences.
The EFCC boss gave the hint on Thursday, 24th November, 2022
during a courtesy visit by officials of the Citizenship and
Leadership Training Centre led by the Director-General, Soji E
niade at the EFCC headquarters, Abuja.
According to Bawa, the desire to partner with the relevant
organisations to rehabilitate ex-convicts is to allow them
to separate themselves from the psychological and environmental
factors that made them commit crime in the first place.
He said, "I am worried, very concerned for the future of the
youths of this country. I honestly do not derive joy in the
arrest, investigation and prosecution of the thousands of
youths who are supposed to be in their productive ages; but
the job must be done. We must concertedly cleanse the system
of all forms of economic and financial crimes. In doing that,
we must also think of how to rehabilitate and bring the ex-
convicts back to the society, hence the collaboration", he said.
The rehabilitation, the EFCC boss said, "Will involve psychological
approaches to morality and cognitive sanity as well as general
education such as literacy skills and work training. The goal is
to re-integrate offenders back into society after serving their
time in prison", he added.
The CLTC Director-General, Eniade, described the objective
of the visit as creating a synergy to advance frontiers for
the restoration of confidence in national unity and attitudinal
change particularly among youths and young officers on the
impact of individual actions on nation building and the corporate
image of the country.
While describing the importance of the rehabilitation programme
as proposed by the EFCC as top-notch, Eniade said it is very
important to re-educate and retrain those who commit crime to
discourage them from further engaging in the same or in any other
crime.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-partners-citizen-and-leadership-training-centre-to-rehabilitate-youths-ex-convicts
419 Coalition comment: We wholeheartedly approve of this programme
and hope that it will be both effective and successful.
*********************************************
23 NOV 2022
Three internet Fraudsters Bag 9 Years Imprisonment in Benin
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City,
on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 convicted and sentenced the trio
of Odoko Emumena Daniel, Idemudia Destiny Eghosa and Asuelimhen
Edward to nine years imprisonment for fraud.
They were arraigned on separate one count charge bordering on
unlawful possession of fraudulent documents and personation by
the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The charge against Daniel reads: "that you Odoko Emumena Daniel
on or about 16th August, 2022 within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did with intent to defraud knowingly have in
your possession on your iPhone 11 with IMEI Number 356548102110317
documents which you knew or ought to have known contain a false
pretense and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
6 of or the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences
Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act".
The charge against Eghosa reads: "that you, Idemudia Destiny
Eghosa sometimes between 2021 to 9th September 2022 in Benin
City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Javier Ochoa,
a verifies and legitimate Bitcoin trader and and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under section 484 of the
Criminal Code Law Cap 48, Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as
applicable in Edo State) 1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their
respective charges.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel I.K. Agwai
prayed the court to convict and sentenced them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants urged the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendants have become remorseful
for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Odoko, Eghosa
and Edward to three years imprisonment with an option of
Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
In addition, the balance of Six Hundred and Thirty Eight Thousand,
Four Hundred and Thirty Six Kobo found in the convicts bank accounts,
one white Hyundai Sonata 2012 model car and phones which are proceeds
of crime be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria .
The judge also ordered the closure of the convicts' bank accounts
in First Bank of Nigeria, Zenith Bank, Union Bank and Ecobank.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
Three internet Fraudsters Bag 9 Years Imprisonment in Benin
****************************************
23 NOV 2022
Court Jails Obi One Year For Possession of Fraudulent Documents
Justice O.A. Okunuga of the Lagos State High Court sitting in
Ikeja, on Tuesday, November 22, 2022, convicted and sentenced
one Tope Peter Obi to one year imprisonment for possession of
fraudulent documents.
The convict was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a one-count
charge bordering on possession of fraudulent documents, an
offence contrary to Section 318 of the Criminal Law of Lagos
State 2011.
The count reads: "That you, Tope Peter Obi, sometime on the
8th day of July, 2022 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court, had in your possession documents wherein
you fraudulently represented yourself as Chris Lane, an American
to one Hewitt, a representation of which from the circumstance
of this case you knew or reasonably ought to know to be false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the one-count charge.
In view of his plea, the prosecuting counsel, G.C. Akaogu,
gave a review of the facts, detailing how intelligence reports
had linked the defendant to the alleged crime, upon which he
was arrested and subjected to further investigation.
The statements of the defendant and the items recovered from
him were also tendered in evidence by the prosecution.
Following the guilty plea of the defendant and the evidence
presented before the court, the trial Judge found him guilty
as charged.
The defence counsel, Bisola Oshundunmade, pleaded with the
court to temper justice with mercy.
After reviewing all the evidence and submissions of both
parties, Justice Okunuga sentenced the defendant to one-year
imprisonment, with an option of fine of N500,000.
Items recovered from him, including iPhone X, were ordered
forfeited to the Federal Government.
The defendant was also ordered to sign an undertaking with
the EFCC to be of good behaviour and never to engage in any
form of economic and financial crimes within and outside
the shores of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-obi-one-year-for-possession-of-fraudulent-documents
******************************************
22 NOV 2022
EFCC Secure Conviction of Four Internet Fraudsters
in Port Harcourt
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, on
Tuesday November 22, 2022, secured the conviction of four i
nternet fraudsters, Omosebi Ezekiel Timi, Sunday Boateng,
Ibrahim Sani and Victor Madu Egbuchua before Justices
A. T. Mohammed, S. I. Mark, and E. A. Obile of the Federal
High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The offence runs contrary to section 22 (2) (b) (i) of
the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention) Act, 2015 and
punishable under Section 22(2) (b) (iv) of the same Act.
They were arraigned on a separate count charge and pleaded
"guilty" to their charges when they were read to them.
Timi's charge reads: "That you, Omosebi Ezekiel Timi on
or about 29th day of September, 2022 within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did fraudulently represent yourself
as one Evan Townsend from United States of America in your
Facebook and other Social Media Account with intent to gain
advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22(2) (b)
(iv) of the same Act".
The charge against Boateng reads: "That you, Sunday Boateng
(aka Richard) between January, 2021 to September, 2021, at
Adesa Ughoton, in Warri, Delta State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court fraudulently represented yourself
as Richard Williams, a mobile phone vendor resident in the
US on Whatsapp Business Account obtained gift card worth
One Thousand, Eight Hundred and Fifty US Dollars ($1, 850)
from My Sissy Love, Catty Simmons and Hendy, American Citizens
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2)
(b) (ii) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc)
Act, punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
Prosecution counsel, M. T. Iko, I. N. Nwosu, E. Abbiyesuku
and K. W. Chukwuma-Eneh urged the courts to convict them in
line with their pleas.
Justice Mark convicted and sentenced the duo of Timi and Sani
to two years in the Correctional Service with an option of
Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N300,000.00) fine for Timi,
while Sani was given a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira
payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria.
Likewise, Justice Mohammed convicted and sentenced Boateng
to one year in the Correctional Service with Two Hundred
Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) as option of fine.
In the same vein, Justice Obile also convicted Egbuchua,
sentencing him to three years in Correctional Service with
Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N300,000.00) as fine payable
into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria.
The Judges also ordered that one iPhone 12, one blue iPhone
12 Smart phone, one iPhone 7, one touch light phone and one
Lenovo laptop the convicts used in committing the crime be
forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
efcc-secure-conviction-of-four-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcourt
***********************************
21 NOV 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Three Years Imprisonment in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday, November 21, 2022 secured the
conviction of one Musa Shaka before Justice M. Itsueli of
Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City.
Shaka was arraigned on one count charge bordering on possession
of fraudulent documents.
The charge against him reads: "that you, MUSA SHAKA (M) on
or about the 25 day of October 2021 in Benin City, within the
jurisdiction of this Honorable Court had in your possession
in your Vivo V2026 mobile phone documents containing false
pretence with different subjects which you knew to be false
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 6 and
8 (b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences
Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read
to him in court.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, I.M Elodi prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced the defendant to three
years imprisonment with option of a fine of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira.
The defendant is to forfeit his mobile phone to the Federal
Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good
behavior henceforth.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-three-years-imprisonment-in-benin
**************************************
21 NOV 2022
Cyber – Fraud: Seventeen Convicted in Oyo, Ogun
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of
seventeen internet fraudsters before Justices Bayo Taiwo,
Ladoke Akintola, and Mohammed Owolabi of the State High Court,
Ibadan, Oyo State and Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu of Ogun State
High Court, Abeokuta, on a separate one count charge each.
The jail terms range from two to nine months community service,
and one year in prison.
The convicts are Oduola Kunmi Ireola, Igbamidun Joshua Olamiposi,
Ismael Fatai Olatunji, Osundele Oladapo Daniel, Olawale Isaac Adeleke,
Olorunyomi Idowu Babatunde, Aneh Ojonimi, Olaide Iyanuoluwa Sadare,
Akintola Babatunde Rasheed, Jamiu Babatunde Salam, Aluko Abayomi
Oluwadamilare, Bello Ridwan Ayobami, Maleek Michael Ibrahim, Arasi
Oluwaseun Tobi, Ganiu Fawaz Olalekan, Bello Ayoinde Olamilekan and
Abiodun Taiwo Kareem.
They all pleaded ‘guilty’ to the one count charge filed against
each one of them by the EFCC.
Consequently, prosecution counsel, Modupe Akinkoye, Oyelakin
Oyediran, Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Musa Galadanchi, Abdulrasheed
Suleiman, Mabas Mabur, and Samsudeen Bashir reviewed the facts
of the cases and urged the courts to convict and sentence the
defendants as charged.
Osundele was convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment
while Arasi, Ganiu and Ibrahim bagged nine months jail term each.
Also, Akintola was convicted and sentenced to nine months community
service, Oduola, Jamiu, Aluko and Bello to six months community service
each while Igbamidun and Kareem bagged five months community service
each.
Furthermore, Olatunji was convicted and sentenced to four months
community service, Ayorinde to two months community service while
Olorunyomi, Ojonimi, Sadare were convicted and fined N100, 000. 00
(One Hundred Thousand Naira) each and Adeleke to N150, 000 .00
(One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine.
Justice Bayo Taiwo ordered that Osundele Oladapo Daniel pay the
sum of $16, 671. 00USD in restitution and forfeit one white colour
Toyota Venza car worth N7million to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Other convicts were also ordered to restitute their victims and
forfeit all items recovered from them the government.
The press release contains photos of all 17 419ers:
cyber-fraud-seventeen-convicted-in-oyo-ogun
****************************************
18 NOV 2022
EFCC Arrests Suspected Yahoo Boy in Makurdi
The Operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested a suspected
internet fraudster, Abur David Aondowase in Makurdi, Benue State.
He was arrested on Thursday, November 17th, 2022 at his hideout
in Makurdi, Benue State.
Items recovered from the suspect include two laptops, an iPhone,
different ATM cards and one Lexus ES 350 car.
The suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-suspected-yahoo-boy-in-makurdi
****************************************
18 NOV 2022
EFCC Busts 'Yahoo-Yahoo Boys' Hideouts, Arrests 18 in Ilorin
Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, November
18, 2022 arrested eighteen suspected internet fraudsters
in a sting operation in Ilorin, Kwara State.
They are Adeleye Ayodeji, Muhammed Ayub, Odelade Samuel,
Sodiq Olanrewaju, Ola Francis, Adeniyi Damilare, Olalekan
Samad, Tunde Ayodele, Zubair Buhari and Oladosu Naheem.
Others are Olowokere Jamiu, Lawal Usman, Jamiu Abdulrasaq,
Lawal Ahmed, Opeyemi Samuel, Alarape Ahmed, Kolawole Daniel
and Ganiyu Taofeek.
The suspects were smoked out of their hideouts at different
locations following credible intelligence on their fraudulent
activities in Ilorin and its environs. Specifically, they
were arrested at Sobi, Akerebiata and Las Vegas Estate, Asa
Dam, Ilorin.
The suspects, who are mostly in their early twenties, include
six students of tertiary institutions in the State, a footballer,
Fashion Designer, Bitcoin Dealer and Laundryman, among others.
Upon arrest, five exotic cars, 32 different brands of mobile
phones, eight laptops and other incriminating materials were
recovered from them.
The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion
of the ongoing investigations.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-busts-yahoo-yahoo-boys-hideouts-arrests-18-in-ilorin
***************************************
17 NOV 2022
Court Jails 12 Internet Fraudsters in Abakaliki
The Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction of twelve(12)
internet fraudsters.
They were jailed on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 by Justice
Fatun Riman of the Federal High Court sitting in Abakiliki,
Ebonyi State.
The convicts, jailed on one -count separate charges bordering
on obtaining money under false pretences, are: Matthew Chukwuemeka,
Temple Emmanuel, Chukwu Joseph, Ibeh Chisom, Anson Ugochukwu
and Abuchi Awa.
Others are: Akalam Lucky, Akalam Michael, Itodo Jude, Itodo
Victor, Ohaeri Sixtus and Osawele Lucky.
The charge against Chukwuemeka reads, "that you, MATHEW CHUKWUEMEKA
sometime in 2022 in Awka within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
court, fraudulently impersonated one Troy Davidson , through a fake
Telegram account via your Techno Spark 8c phone in order to gain
advantage for yourself and with the intent to obtain money from
unsuspecting foreign nationals and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22(3)(a) and (b) of the Cyber Crime (Prohibition,
Prevention etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section22(4) of the
Same Act.
All the 12 defendants pleaded guilty when the charges were read
to them.
Justice Riman convicted and sentenced them to one year imprisonment
each, with an option of N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) as
fine.
All the convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre
when they were arrested by operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command
of the EFCC, for various internet-related offences.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-12-internet-fraudsters-in-abakaliki
***************************************
17 NOV 2022
Fake FBI Commander, One Other Arraigned For $2.8m Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on
Thursday, November 17, 2022, arraigned one Ijeboi Dennis
and Obade Monday Christian before Justice Abubakar Baba
Shani of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Apo,
Abuja.
Dennis,(aka Andrew Tran huynh) and Monday, who also
claimed to be a Commander with the Federal Bureau of
Investigation, FBI, as well as a Diplomat Director,
were arraigned on a five count- charge bordering on
conspiracy and obtaining the sum of Two Million, Eight
Hundred and Twenty Two Thousand, Eight Hundred and
Sixty United States Dollars ($2, 822,860.00) by false
pretense.
According to the charge, the defendants conspired to
defraud one Holly Ngo, a United States Citizen while
posing as American doctors stranded in Afghanistan.
Counsel to the defendants, S.T Sanni attempted to abort
the planned arraignment of the defendants today as he
informed the court that the defendants only received the
charge and proof of evidence on Wednesday, November 16, 2022.
But his objection was overruled by the judge, who ruled
that the prosecution had complied with Section 35 of the
Constitution by producing the defendants in court, and
ordered that, arraignment of the defendant should proceed.
Count two of the charge against the defendants reads, "That
you, Ijeboi Dennis (aka Andrew Tran Huynh), Obade Monday
Christian (aka FBI Commander/Diplomat Director), Ekhoguagbon
Osazuwa Patrick (aka Patrick Paul)(still at large) and Omage
Emmanuel Omole(now deceased) between January 2021 and
September 2021, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of the
High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, with the
intent to defraud, obtained an aggregate sum of $2,8822,860.00
(Two Million, Eight Hundred and Twenty Two Thousand, Eight
Hundred and Sixty United States Dollars) from Holy Ngo, a
United States Citizens under the false pretense that you
are American doctors stranded in Afghanistan, which you
knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other
Fraud Related Offences Act,2006 and punishable under
Section 1(3) of the same Act."
They pleaded not guilty to the charges.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, Christopher
Mshelia, prayed the court to set a date for trial and remand
the defendants in the custody of a Correctional Facility.
But Sanni urged the court to allow the defendants in the
custody of the EFCC pending determination of their bail
application.
Justice Baba Shani remanded the defendants at the Suleja
Correctional Facility and adjourned the matter till January
11, 2023 for trial.
The press release contains a photo:
fake-fbi-commander-one-other-arraigned-for-2-8m-fraud
************************************
15 NOV 2022
Court Convicts Three Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court, Benin City,
on Monday, November 14, 2022 convicted and sentenced three
internet fraudsters to jail for fraud.
They are Omorefe Osaze, Ikekhua Bassey Mately and Wonderful
Okirhienyefa Oghenetega. They were arraigned on one count charge
bordering on unlawful possession of fraudulent documents and
personation by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The charge against Oghenetega reads: "That you, Wonderful
Okirhienyefa Oghenetega on or about the 15th day of August,
2022 at Benin City within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did have in your possession, in your iPhone 7 Plus
mobile phone, documents containing a false pretense with
different subjects which you knew to be false and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 6 and 8(b) or the
Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006
and punishable under Section 1(3)of the same Act".
The charge against Omorefe Osaze reads: "that you, Omorefe
Osaze between 2021 to September 2022 in Benin City Edo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently
personate the identity of one Liu Gong on WhatsApp account created
by you to communicate with different persons and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section.484 of the
Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable
in Edo State".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge
preferred against them by the EFCC
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, I.M. Elodi
prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendants have been remorseful for
their actions.
Justice Itsueli thereafter convicted and sentenced Osaze to
two years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine.
Bassey Mately was sentenced to five years imprisonment with
an option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine while Oghenetega
bagged three years imprisonment or a fine of Three Hundred
Thousand Naira.
The judge ordered that the balance of money found in Zenith
bank and UBA accounts belonging to Osaze, a Mercedes Benz C300
car and phones recovered during the course of investigation being
proceeds of crime be forfeited to the Federal government of Nigeria.
The defendant's bank accounts in UBA and Zenith bank are to be
closed.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-convicts-three-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
**************************************
14 NOV 2022
Oyo Court Convicts Eleven Cybercriminals
Justice Omolara Adeyemi of the State High Court, Ibadan,
Oyo State, on November 9 and 10, 2022 convicted and sentenced
eleven cybercriminals to various jail terms on a separate
one count charge each.
The convicts are Atanda Jamiu Olamide, Makanjuola Abolaji
Idris, Adewopo Adesuyi John, Sodiq Kazeem Abiodun, Ridwan
Iyiola Dolapo, Ayomide Emmanuel Alase, Olabosinde Hamed
Adesola, Oguntolu Oluwatomiwa Oluwatosin, Elegbede Akinola
Quadri, Adejare Ayuba Olamide and Waheed Taofeek Olawale.
They all pleaded guilty to the charges filed against them
by the EFCC.
Upon their pleas, prosecution counsel, Oyelakin Oyediran,
Modupe Akinkoye, Musa Galadanchi, Mabas Mabur, Abdulrasheed
Suleiman, Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Chidi Okoli and Samsudeen
Bashir urged the court to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Adeyemi convicted and sentenced Sodiq
Kazeem Abiodun to three months community service while others
bagged six months community service each.
The court ordered that the convicts restitute their various
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
oyo-court-convicts-eleven-cybercriminals
***********************************
11 NOV 2022
Court Jails Boy 12months for Yahoo-Yahoo in Ilorin
Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court sitting
in Ilorin on Friday, November 11, 2022 convicted and sentenced
a 19-year-old man, Marvelous Awolowo, popularly known as Bryan
Evan and Sandra Kate to 12 months imprisonment over offences
bordering on cybercrime.
Marvelous, who hails from Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area
of Kogi State, was arrested based on credible intelligence
on October 23, 2022 at the International Airport, Ilorin,
Kwara State.
Upon arrest, one infinix S5 lite phone was recovered from
him. The phone was analyzed and several fraudulent documents
were printed from his emails.
Checks on his profile revealed that, Marvelous had impersonated
one Evans Bryan and Sandra Katty using fictitious emails to swindle
unsuspecting victims. Specifically, the convict defrauded Evan
Bryan of the sum of $1000 after he deceived him to believe he
had instructed one Blacck to send him $14,500.
Further findings revealed that, the convict also acted as a
"Picker" for his fellow internet fraudsters who he helped to
receive illegally obtained funds through his bank account.
It was also discovered that, between May 4, 2022 and October
23, 2022 a total sum of N13,713,400 (Thirteen Million, Seven
Hundred and Thirteen Thousand, Four Hundred Naira) suspected
to be proceeds of unlawful activities was paid to his UBA
account.
Consequently, Marvelous was arraigned on two counts, to which
he pleaded guilty.
Count one of the charge reads:
"That you, MARVELOUS AWOLOWO sometime between May 2022 and
October 2022 in Ilorin, Kwara State within the Jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did knowingly had under your control
Thirteen Million, Seven Hundred and Thirteen Thousand, Four
Hundred Naira (N13,713,400) paid into your United Bank for
Africa account No 2176465739 which is reasonably suspected
to be unlawfully obtained and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 319(A) of the Penal Code Law and punishable
under the same Section."
Following the guilty plea, counsel to the EFCC, Rashidat
Alao, reviewed the facts of the case through a witness,
Kamal Yahayah, who narrated the circumstances leading to
the arrest of the defendant. Kamal, who is an operative
of the EFCC tendered documents, which were admitted in
evidence by the court.
Rashidat, thereafter urged the court to convict the
defendant based of his admittance of guilt and the
evidence of the prosecution witness that was unchallenged
by the defence.
Justice Yusuf said that, he had carefully considered the
guilty plea by the defendant; his extra-judicial statement
and the uncontroverted evidence before the court, and was
convinced that there was merit in the prosecution's case.
Consequently, the judge pronounced Marvelous guilty on
the two counts.
The defence, Antonia Erinfolami-Daniel in her allocutus,
pleaded with the court to tamper justice with mercy considering
the age of the convict as a teenager and one with promising
future.
Thereafter, Justice Yusuf sentenced Marvelous to six months
imprisonment on each of the two counts, to run concurrently
with N100,000 as option of fine on each count.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-boy-12months-for-yahoo-yahoo-in-ilorin
*************************************
11 NOV 2022
EFCC Docks Man for Alleged N39.7m Fraud in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, November 11, 2022 arraigned a 30-
year-old man, Yusuf Yusuf Olarewaju, for internet fraud related
offences before Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High
Court sitting in Ilorin.
Olarewaju, a native of Erin-Ile in Oyun Local Government Area
of Kwara State was arrested on October 23, 2022 following actionable
intelligence about the activities of some syndicates of fraudsters
operating in the town.
The defendant was arrested and found to be in possession of one
iphone 14 Pro Max, one Toyota Corolla 2005 Model Car, one Mercedes
Benz GLK 2010 Model and a Toyota Camry 2013 Model Car.
Investigation revealed that Olarewaju, while using a fraudulent
email, ksmithkatie27@gmail.com posed as one Smith Katie, a white
female from Missouri, USA, to strike relationships with one James
Gibson (Jimmy) and Stephen Speer, both of whom he swindled to the
tune of $30,000 USD between 2021 and 2022.
The defendant confessed to the crime and was consequently charged
to court on one count by the anti-graft agency.
The charge reads:
"That you, YUSUF YUSUF OLAREWAJU, sometime between 16th January,
2022 and 13th October, 2022 at Erin-Ile, within the judicial division
of this Kwara State High Court, did knowingly had under your control,
the gross sum of N39,722,319 (Thirty Nine Million, Seven Hundred and
Twenty Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Nineteen Naira) deposited in
your Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd account number 0226365092 which is
reasonably suspected to have been unlawfully obtained and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 319
(a) of the Penal Code Law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Upon his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Andrew Akoja reviewed the facts
of the case through a witness, who narrated the circumstances leading
to the arrest of the defendant. The witness, who is an operative of
the EFCC, tendered some documents including the device used as
instrumentality of the crime and the keys to the cars recovered
from the defendant, which were admitted in evidence.
Akoja, thereafter urged the court to convict the defendant based
on his unequivocal plea of guilt and the uncontroverted evidence
of the prosecution’s witness.
However, Olarewaju’s counsel, M. A Bello, cross-examined the
prosecution witness to the effect that, the defendant had left
"yahoo business" since January 2022, and that the cars recovered
from him were intended to start up car business.
Justice Yusuf adjourned to November 23, 2022 for judgment and
ordered the remand of the defendant in the custody of the Nigeria
Correctional Service, Ilorin.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-docks-man-for-alleged-n39-7m-fraud-in-ilorin
****************************************
10 NOV 2022
$1.3m Fraud: Court Adjourns Till Dec 5 for Arraignment of Zaura
Justice Mohammed Yunusa of the Federal High Court, Kano on Thursday,
November 10, 2022 adjourned till December 5, 2022 for arraignment
and hearing of other applications by Abdulsalam Abdulkarim Zaura.
Zaura is due to be arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission in line with the Court of Appeal, Kano Division’s ruling
which quashed his acquittal of a $1.3million fraud charge in June
2020 by Justice A.l Allagoa of the Federal High Court.
In a unanimous decision, a three man panel of justices led by
Justice Abdullahi M. Bayero said the lower court erred in acquitting
the defendant and directed his retrial before another judge. But Zaura
has so far failed to appear in court for arraignment on two previous
occasions.
At the last adjourned date, Zaura’s counsel moved a motion urging
the court not to entertain the matter pending the determination of
his appeal at the Supreme Court.
The prosecution however objected, arguing that the motion could
not be heard or argued in the absence of the defendant.
When the court resumed today, Justice Yunusa insisted that Zaura
must be arraigned before any application can be heard.
He further ruled that it is the duty of the prosecution to produce
the defendant for arraignment and adjourned till December 5.
The Commission is prosecuting Zaura for defrauding a Kuwaiti Citizen
of the sum of $1,320,000 (One Million Three Hundred and Twenty Thousand
Dollars) under the pretext that he is in the business of building
properties in Dubai, Kuwait and other Arab countries.
1-3m-fraud-court-adjourns-till-dec-5-for-arraignment-of-zaura
********************************************
9 NOV 2022
Yahoo Boy Jailed for Impersonation in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction of
one Mathew Nwanosike before Justice A.A Bello of the
Kaduna State High Court on a one count charge bordering
on identity theft.
Mathew who confessed to have defrauded several victims
under various guises, met his Waterloo when he faked
the identity of a foreign building contractor named
Brian Robert.
The one count charge reads; "That you, Mathew Smith
Nwanosike ( aka Brian Robert) sometime in September,
2022 in Kaduna Judicial Division of the High Court
with intent to cheat, falsely represented yourself
as one Brian Robert, a building contractor and cheated
one Rhian and Stella on plenty of fish ( an online dating
site) and other several online social media applications
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
142 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017 and punishable
under the same Law".
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
Consequently, the prosecution counsel, E.K Garba urged
the court to convict the defendant accordingly.
Justice Bello convicted and sentenced the defendant to
three months imprisonment with option of N 100,000.00
fine. He is to also forfeit an iPhone with serial No.
XR F2XP30HKXKQ and a total sum of N 1,500,000.00 to
the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
yahoo-boy-jailed-for-impersonation-in-kaduna
**********************************
9 NOV 2022
Kwara Court Sends Yahoo Picker to Prison in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction of one Ismael Toheeb
Opeyemi for offences that borders on cybercrime and retention
of proceeds of crime.
He was prosecuted by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC before
Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court, Ilorin who
found the defendant, a native of Egbeda Local Government area
of Oyo State, guilty of the allegation levelled against him and
sentenced him to six months imprisonment.
The charge against him reads: “That you, ISMAEL TOHEEB OPEYEMI
between 4th January, 2021 and 29th November, 2021 in Ilorin,
Kwara State within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court
did knowingly had under your control the sum of N5,448,000.00
(Five Million Four Hundred and Forty Eight Thousand Naira Only)
in your bank account number: 1387672631 with the name: Toheeb
Opeyemi Ismael domiciled with the Access Bank PLC which you
knew to be proceeds of criminal conduct and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 319 (a)
of the penal Code Laws of Northern Nigeria”.
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge brought against him.
Prosecuting counsel, Aliyu Adebayo who reviewed the facts of
the case, tendered in evidence one iPhone 12 Pro Max, key of
a Green Colour 2014 Toyota Corolla car with registration number:
KWL 177 BH, the statements of the defendant and all the fraudulent
messages printed from his devices which were admitted as exhibits.
In his judgement, Justice Yusuf said the court was satisfied
that the prosecution had proved the case against the defendant.
He convicted and sentenced Opeyemi to six months imprisonment
with option of fine of N100, 000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira
Only). The court further ordered that the iPhone 12 Pro Max
and the Green Colour 2014 Toyota Corolla be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
kwara-court-sends-yahoo-picker-to-prison-in-ilorin
*************************************
9 NOV 2022
Court Jails Six for Internet Fraud in Benin
Six Internet fraudsters, Uche Olisa Modebe, Ighodaro Omede,
Osamwonyi Christopher Nicholas, Justice Obaje, Adefuwa Ajinde
John and Anukwugha Destiny Nkada have been convicted and
sentenced to jail terms by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo
State High Court sitting in Benin City.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on one count charge bordering
on personation, unlawful possession of fraudulent documents and
retention of proceeds of crime.
Modebe, Omede, Nicholas, Adefuwa and Obaje were convicted and
sentenced on November 8, 2022 while Nkada was convicted on
November 7, 2022.
The charge against Adefuwa John reads : "that you, Adefuwa
Ajinde John and Adebayo Opeyemi (at large ) on or about 16th
December 2020, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did retain the sum of N480,000 transferred into your
First Bank account number 3138888014 by Adebayo Opeyemi knowing
that same represent proceeds of Adebayo Opeyemi’s criminal
conduct, to wit: Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 17(b).of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission Establishment Act ,2004 and punishable under Section
17(b) of the Same Act".
The charge against Omede reads: "that you, Ighodaro David Omede
sometime in 2021 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud falsely represent
yourself to be one Johnn cularge ( American citizen ) to Casseous
and Chantal Larco, both white ladies, a representation you knew
to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and
punishable under section 484 of the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws o
f Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State)".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty prompting
the prosecuting counsel, F.O Dibang, I. K. Agwai and K.Y Bello
to pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Modebe , Osamwonyi
Christopher Nicholas to four years imprisonment with an option
of Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
The trio of Destiny Nkada, Justice Obaje and Adefuwa John were
sentenced to three years imprisonment each or a fine of Two
Hundred Thousand Naira each. Omede bagged three years imprisonment
with an option of One Hundred Thousand Naira fine
The judge ordered that the balance of N288, 012.6 in the Union
bank account belonging to Modebe, Mercedez Benz GLK 350 and
phones recovered from the defendants which are proceeds of
crime be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The judge also ordered that Modebe’s bank account domiciled
in Union bank be closed forthwith
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-six-for-internet-fraud-in-benin
***************************************
9 NOV 2022
EFCC Arrests 49 Suspected Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC have arrested 49
internet fraud suspects. The suspects within the 19 and
32 years age bracket, were arrested in a sting in various
homes at Navy Estate, Cajaah-Orozo, a suburb of Abuja,
following credible intelligence on their alleged criminal
activities.
Among items seized from them include over fifty mobile
phones of different brands, fifteen laptops and a Lexus
ES330 salon.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the
investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-49-suspected-fraudsters-in-abuja
*************************************
8 NON 2022
Hushpuppi Sentenced to 11 plus years in US
In a final appeal to Judge Otis Wright ahead of his scheduled
sentencing on 19 September 2022, Hushpuppi wrote a personal
letter to the court narrating his source of wealth, criminal
adventure and regrets. He apologised to his family members
for bringing them shame while commending the FBI for doing
a thorough job while bringing him to justice.
On 19 September 2022, Judge Otis Wright delayed Hushpuppi's
sentencing to 3 November 2022. The Judge had initially rejected
the plea of the defendant's motion for a delay of judgement.
On 8 November 2022, Hushpuppi was sentenced to over 11 years
(135 months) in a federal prison.
Hushpuppi Wikipedia
Also see BBC News via Yahoo News:
Nigerian Social Media Influencer Sentenced to
11 Years for Conspiring to Launder $300 Million
The article contains pix:
nigerian-social-media-influencer-sentenced-230011724.html
***********************************
4 NOV 2022
Cybercrime: Ex – Convict, Others Bag Jail Terms in Ibadan
A serving cybercrime convict, one Warith Ademola Hassan
who was sentenced to six months community service by Justice
Bayo Taiwo of the State High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State on
Friday, July 29, 2022 has been jailed again for cyber-related
activities in Oyo State.
Barely three months into six months community service term,
Warith was arrested again and prosecuted by the Ibadan Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC,
on fresh charges of internet fraud.
He was arraigned on November 2, alongside six others before
Justices Omolara Adeyemi and Iyabode Yerima of the Oyo State
High Court, Ibadan on a separate one count charge each.
Other convicts are Adedayo Joel Olumide, Habeeb Gbolahan Amidu,
Lawal Adesina Sherif, Ugbana Efemena Daniel, Obi Ogechukwu Frank
and Osaze Bright Osayande.
They all pleaded “guilty” to the charges filed against them
by the EFCC.
Justice Adeyemi convicted and sentenced Warith to three months
imprisonment, Osaze to two months jail term and Obi to six months
community service.
Justice Yerima sentenced Ugbana, Lawal and Habeeb to six months
jail term each and Adedayo, six months community service.
In the same light, Justice Olusola Adetujoye of the Oyo State
High Court, Ibadan, on November 3, 2022 convicted and sentenced
one Sodiq Babatunde Kajero to two months community service for
internet-related fraud.
The courts further ordered that the convicts restitute their
various victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
cybercrime-ex-convict-others-bag-jail-terms-in-ibadan
***************************************
4 NOV 2022
Oyo Court Jails Couple, 16 Others for Internet Fraud in Ibadan
Justice Iyabode Yerima of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan,
today, November 4, 2022 convicted and sentenced a couple;
Aladenusi Adegboyega Ayodeji and Sadiat Omowumi rafiu to
various jail terms for cybercrime.
The couple was convicted alongside eight others on separate
one count charge each.
Other convicts are Adekoya Ojo Faruq Kolapo, Adekanmi Boluwatife
Emmanuel, Omokaro Uyiosa Berry, Ajayi Lanre Lawrence, Babalola
Segun Samuel and Bolaji Bolarinwa Toheeb.
They all pleaded “guilty” to the charges preferred against
them by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Consequently, prosecution counsel, Samsuddeen Bashir reviewed
the facts of the cases and urged the court to sentence the
defendants accordingly.
Justice Yerima, thereafter, convicted Ayodeji to one imprisonment
and his wife to six months community service, taking into account
the fact that she is a breastfeeding mother.
Also, Babalola was convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment
while Adekoya, Adekanmi, Omokaro, Ajayi and Bolaji were sentenced to
six months community service each.
The court ordered that the convicts restitute their various victims
and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
In a similar development, ten cybercriminals were convicted and
sentenced to various jail terms ranging three months imprisonment
to one year jail term by Justice Mohammed Owolabi of the State
High Court, sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State on November 4, 2022.
The convicts who were arraigned and convicted on a lone count
each are: Owoseni Opeyemi Emmanuel, Micheal Banjo Oluwatoyin,
Mustapha Temitope Abdulsodiq, Olawuyi Olanrewaju Ridwan, Edobor
Lucky Uhunoma, Ilori Peter Oladayo, Basit Kolawole Ibrahim, Falade
Adeyinka Moses, Abdullahi Teslim Taiwo and Temidayo Demilade
Adebowale.
They all pleaded ‘guilty’ to the charges filed against upon
their arraignments.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, Mabas Mabur reviewed
the facts of the cases and prayed the court to convict and sentence
the defendants as charged.
Consequently, Justice Owolabi convicted and sentenced Owoseni
to one year imprisonment, Olawuyi to seven months imprisonment,
Temidayo to three months jail term while Michael, Mustapaha,
Edobor, Ilori, Basit and Abdullahi bagged six months imprisonment.
Also, Falade Adeyinka Kolapo was convicted and ordered to pay
N250, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine.
Furthermore, the convicts were ordered to restitute their various
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
oyo-court-jails-couple-16-others-for-internet-fraud-in-ibadan
*********************************************
4 NOV 2022
Court Convicts 10 Internet Fraudsters in Asaba, Benin ...
Orders the Forfeiture of Cars and Money to FG
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on Thursday November 3, 2022 secured the
conviction of 10 internet fraudsters before Justice F.A.
Olubanjo of the Federal High Court, Asaba, Delta State and
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City.
They are Odogun Richard Akpesiri, Prince Eric Nnamdi, Bobby
Chukwudi Okonkwo, Akorah Chinedu Friday, Promise Bassy and
Ernest Owen Igbenidion.
Others are: Happiness Ayo Usomata, Tochukwu Chinazum Onyido,
Emmanuel Ochuko and Anyasi Ifeanyi.
They were arraigned on separate charges for offences bordering
on impersonation, unlawful possession of fraudulent documents
and acquiring properties with proceeds of criminal conduct.
Nine of the defendants were prosecuted before Justice Olubanjo
while one was before Justice Ikponmwonba
The charge against Okonkwo reads: "that you, Bobby Chukwudi
Okonkwo sometime between 2019 and 2020 in Asaba. Delta State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did acquire
a Toyota Camry car with registration number BWR 239 BL and
a Venza Saloon car knowing same were acquired from funds
derived from unlawful.act.to wit: cybercrime and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 18(1) of the Economic
and Financial. Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act 2004 and
punishable under section 18(2) of the same Act".
Upon their arraignment, all the defendants pleaded guilty to
their respective charges, prompting the prosecution counsel,
F.A. Jirbo, F.O Dibang and I.K Agwai to pray the courts to
convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Olubanjo convicted and sentenced Friday, Nnamdi,
Usomata and Ifeanyi to five years imprisonment with an
option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine each.
The trio of Onyido, Bassy and Ochuko bagged five years
imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira each.
Akpesiri was sentenced to three years imprisonment with an
option of One Million Naira as fine while Okonkwo bagged
two years imprisonment with an option of Three Hundred
Thousand Naira fine.
In the same vein, Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced
Earnest Owen Igbenidion to three years imprisonment with an
option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
The judges ordered the forfeiture of a Toyota Camry car, a
Venza saloon Car, the aggregate sum of N1, 238,032.22 recovered
from the defendants being proceeds of crime to the Federal
government of Nigeria , while the Bank accounts of the
defendants are to be permanently closed.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-convicts-10-internet-fraudsters-in-asaba-benin-orders-the-forfeiture-of-cars-and-money-to-fg
***********************************
3 NOV 2022
Three Internet Fraudsters Convicted in Port Harcourt
Three internet fraudsters: Asulewon Benjamin, Bright
Omokinniovo and Bakare Shegun Olamide were on Thursday,
November 3, 2022 convicted and sentenced to various jail
terms by Justices A. T. Mohammed and P.M Ayua of the
Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
They were arraigned by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on separate one-count charge of impersonation.
The charge against Benjamin reads: "That you, Asulewon
Benjamin sometime in 2022 fraudulently impersonated one
Robert James with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 22
(2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes ( Prohibition, Prevention,
etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under section 22 (2) (b)
(iv) of the same Act".
They all pleaded guilty to their respective charges when
they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsels: N. A. Dodo
and C. Okorie prayed the courts to convict and sentence
them accordingly. However, defence counsel: F. T. Fred-Boufini,
O.E Ikere and Paula .O. Abudu pleaded with the court to
temper justice with mercy.
Justice Mohammed convicted and sentenced Benjamin to two
years imprisonment, or an option of Three Hundred Thousand
Naira (N300.000.00) as fine. In the same vein, Justice Ayua
convicted and sentenced Omokinniovo and Olamide to two years
imprisonment each.
While Olamide was sentenced with an option of Two Hundred
Thousand Naira (N200, 000.00), Omokinniovo is to pay a fine
of Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (250,000.00) into
the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria.
The judges also ordered all the convicts to forfeit their
phones to the government and undertake in writing to be
of good behaviour henceforth.
Benjamin, Omokinniovo and Olamide started their journey
to the Correctional Service when they were arrested at
various locations in Port Harcourt and Warri, Delta State,
for internet-related fraud activities.
Investigations linked all the three convicts to possession
of fraudulent documents. They were also found to have falsely
presented themselves to their unsuspecting victims with intent
to gain advantage from them.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
three-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-port-harcourt
*******************************************
3 NOV 2022
Court Convicts Man for N17m Contract Scam in Maiduguri
Justice Aisha Kumaliya of the Borno State High Court, Maiduguri
on Thursday, November 3, 2022 convicted and sentenced David Osigbe
Orimekhai to six month imprisonment for cheating to the tune of
N17,470,000.00 (Seventeen Million Four Hundred and Seventy Naira).
Orimekhai was first arraigned by the Maiduguri Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on September
21, 2021 on a one count charge but pleaded not guilty. He was
remanded by the court.
At the resumed hearing, the defendant through his counsel O.C
Nwankwo informed the court of his decision to change his plea.
An amended charge was read to him and he pleaded guilty.
The charge reads: "That you, David Asigbe Orimekhai, sometime
in February 2021 at Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court fraudulently induced Mada Darzma Gadzama
by deceiving him to deliver the total sum of Seventeen Million
Four Hundred and Seventy Thousand Naira (N17,470,000.00) being
money allegedly to finance a contract with Terres Des Hummes,
Danish Refugee Council and Solidarities International, all Non-
Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and thereby committed an offence
contrary to section 320 of the Penal Code Law Cap 102 Laws of Borno
State 1994 and punishable under section 322 of the same law."
Upon his plea, counsel for the prosecution, Mukhtar Ali Ahmed
prayed the court to convict and sentence him as charged. But
counsel for the defendant, Nwankwo pleaded for leniency and
urged the court to temper justice with mercy.
Justice Kumaliya thereafter convicted and sentenced Orimekhai
to a fine of Five Hundred Thousand Naira fine or six months
in prison.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-convicts-man-for-n17m-contract-scam-in-maiduguri
*****************************************
3 NOV 2022
Yahoo Boy Who Poses as American Prostitute Jailed in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Command today, November 3, 2022 secured the conviction one Emmanuel
Adeyi before Justice I. Mohammed of the FCT High Court Gwagwalada
-Abuja on an internet related fraud charge.
The one count charge indicates that Emmanuel Adeyi committed the
offence sometime in 2021 at Abuja when he "pretended to be a white
woman named Sally, a prostitute who resides in the United States
of America through your Reddit application, and under the assumed
character obtained the sum of $600 (Six Hundred United States
Dollars) from your victims, committed the offence of cheating
by personation."
The offence is contrary to Section 321 of the Penal Code Law
(Cap. 89 Laws of Northern Nigeria) and punishable under Section
324 of the same Law.
When the charge was read to the defendant, he pleaded guilty.
Consequently, Justice Mohammed convicted and sentenced Adeyi to
community service for three months, in addition to a fine of
N30,000 (Thirty Thousand Naira).
His iPhone 12 Pro Max is also to be forfeited to the Federal
Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
yahoo-boy-who-poses-as-american-prostitute-jailed-in-abuja
******************************************
2 NOV 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin City
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City,
on Tuesday, November 2, 2022, convicted and sentenced two internet
Fraudsters, Onyeka Sunday and Idemudia Endurance Ehigie, to three
years imprisonment each for fraud
They were arraigned on one count charge of personation and unlawful
possession of fraudulent documents by the Benin Zonal Command of
the EFCC.
The charge against Ehigie reads: "that you, Idemudia Endurance
Ehigie between January to September 2022 in Benin City, Edo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently
personate the identity of one Huang Kim on WhatsApp business account
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 484 of the
Criminal Code Law Cap.48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as
applicable to Edo State)1976 and punishable under the same Law".
The charge against Sunday reads: "that you, Onyeka Sunday sometime
in 2022 at Benin- Auchi By-pass, Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did have in your possession documents which
you knew or ought to have known contain a false pretense and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud
and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under
Section 1(3) of the Same Act".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges,
prompting the prosecution counsel, K.U. Udus and K.Y.Bello to pray
the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Ehigie and Sunday to
three years imprisonment each with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine. The judge ruled that both Ehigie and Sunday's bank
accounts in GTB and Zenith Bank be permanently closed while the
phones recovered from them be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin-city
*********************************************
2 NOV 2022
DISCLAIMER
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, wishes
to draw the attention of the general public to a slew of
faceless individuals running fake and criminal EFCC Pages
on Instagram and other social media platforms.
The EFCC has verified Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages
with its logo and the blue badge clearly reflected. Any other
contrived page of the Commission on any social media platform
should be ignored.
The Commission wishes to draw specific attention to fake
"EFCC Benin Page, EFCC Kaduna page and EFCC _Abuja page"
and a certain "Ahmad Abdurrashid Gumel Baffa" running another
fake EFCC page on Instagram. All these faceless characters
are operating their pages in flagrant violation of the sanctity
of the legal identity of the EFCC. The Commission may take
appropriate legal actions against them.
We urge the public not to transact any transactions with
these characters and report any such operator to the Commission,
whenever they come across such.
The disclaimer contains illustrations:
disclaimer
*************************************
1 NOV 2022
UN Job Scam: Kano Court Remands Impostor for $4,661 Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned one
Ahmad Sultan Sardauna before Justice Farouq Lawal of the Kano
State Court on a one count charge of impersonation.
The defendant posing as brother to a Deputy Secretary General
of the United Nation, obtained the sum of $4,661.60 (Four Thousand
Six Hundred and Sixty One Dollars, Sixty Cents) from one Mr. Ismail
Jama, a Somali, on the pretext of securing a job for him at the
United Nations.
The charge read "That you, Ahmad Sultan Sardauna (aka Sultan
Fallatah) between August 2021 to December, 2021 in Kano within
the jurisdiction of the High Court of Kano State, with intent
to defraud, falsely presented yourself as brother to Amina J.
Mohammed (the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations)
capable of securing a job for one Mr. Ismail Jama (a somalian)
with the United Nations and in the process obtained the total
sum of $4, 661. 60 USD (Four Thousand, Six Hundred and Sixty
One United State Dollars) as facilitation fee which pretence
you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 1 (1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offence Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1 (3)
of the same Act."
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the one count charge when
it was read to him.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Musa Isa asked
the court to remand the defendant and fix a date for the trial
to commence.
Counsel representing the defendant, Sani Iliyas moved a bail
application asking the court to admit his client to bail.
Justice Lawal granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500, 000
and one surety in like sum. The surety must be a relative of the
defendant.
The Court however remanded the defendant in the Correctional
Centre pending the fulfillment of his bail conditions.
The matter has been adjourned till December 7, 2022 for trial.
The press release contains a photo:
un-job-scam-kano-court-remands-impostor-for-4-661-fraud
*****************************************
1 NOV 2022
Oyo Court Convicts 13 Internet Fraudsters in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, October 27, 2022 and Friday,
October 28, 2022 secured convictions of thirteen cybercriminals
before Justices Olusola Adetujoye and Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo
State High Court, Ibadan.
Twelve of the convicts were prosecuted before Justice Adetujoye
on separate one count charge each, and one before Justice Taiwo.
The convicts are Azeez Usman Olatunji, Tofunmi Segun Oyebade,
Yusuf Akorede Toheeb Abiodun, Elegbede Abiodun Timileyin, Odewumi
Toheeb Olamilekan, Abiodun Adam Kolawole, Uthman Olajire Olamilekan,
Ridwan Oladimeji Oluwatobi, Showemimo Akeem Abiodun, Saliu Ibrahim
Akanji, Owie Aisosa Kelvin, Ugwu Simon Ogbonna and Olaoye James.
Upon their arraignments, they all pleaded “guilty” to the charges
filed against them by the anti-graft agency.
Consequently, prosecution counsel, Oyelakin Oyediran, Sanusi
Galadanchi, Samsudeen Bashir and Mabas Mabur reviewed the facts
of the cases and urged the courts to convict and sentence the
defendants accordingly.
Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced Olatunji to six months
community service while Justice Adetujoye convicted and sentenced
Oyebade, Yusuf Akorede, Elegbede, Kolawole, Uthman and Owie to
two months community service each.
Also, Justice Adetujoye sentenced Ridwan, Akanji and Ogbonna to
three months community service each, while Odewumi and Showemimo
were sentenced to one month community service each.
The courts ordered that the convicts restitute their various
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
oyo-court-convicts-13-internet-fraudsters-in-ibadan
*****************************************
31 OCT 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Six Years Jail Term in Benin
Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court, Benin City, on
Friday October 28, 2022 convicted and sentenced the duo of
Monye Emeka Divine and Onyema Okuose to two years imprisonment
each.
They were arraigned on one count charge bordering on retention
of proceeds of crime and unlawful possession of fraudulent
documents.
The charge against Monye Emeka Divine reads: "that you, Money
Emeka Divine between February and July 2022 at Benin City, Edo
State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did take
possession of the total sum of N613, 800 knowing that same
represent proceeds of Mordi Victor Ekene’s (your boss) criminal
conduct to wit: Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 17(b) of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act 2004".
The charge against Okuose reads: "that you, Onyema Okuose
sometime in 2022 at Benin City within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court did have in your possession documents
which you knew or ought to have known contain a false pretence
and thereby committed an offence contrary to the Advance Fee
Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable
under Section 1(3)of the same Act".
Upon arraignment, both defendants pleaded guilty to the
charge preferred against them by the Commission.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, K.Y Bello
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly. However counsel to the defendants prayed the
court to temper justice with Mercy as the defendant has
been remorseful.
Justice Itsueli thereafter convicted and sentenced both
Okuose and Divine to three years imprisonment with an
option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine each.
The judge ruled that the balance of Five Thousand, One
Hundred and Forty Naira and Seventy-two Kobo (N5,140.72)
found in Okuose’s account domiciled in Zenith bank and
phones recovered in the course of investigation be
forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The bank accounts of the two defendants are also to
be closed.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-six-years-jail-term-in-benin
************************************
28 OCT 2022
Six Internet Fraudsters Convicted In Enugu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Enugu
Zonal Command, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of six internet fraudsters.
They were jailed on Thursday, October 27, 2022 by Justice
H.O Eya of the Enugu State High Court sitting in Enugu, on
separate one -count charges bordering on cybercrime and
obtaining by false pretences.
The convicts are: Prince Inyama Chidebere, Paul Ifeanyichukwu
Nwanegbo, Francis Uwaeme Nnadozie, Kenneth Akwozo, Prince
Edward Egwu Chukwuemeka and Chigaemezu Favour Chimereuche.
The charge against P Chukwuemeka reads: "that you PRINCE
EDWARD CHUKWUEMEKA on or about the month of September 2021
in Enugu ,within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
with intent to defraud ,committed a felony, to wit personation,
when you falsely represented yourself to be Edward -1470 a
military personnel from Tampa ,Florida in the United States
of America and you thereby committed an offence of personation
contrary to and punishable under Section 460 of the Criminal
Code Law, Revised Edition, CAP 30 Laws of Enugu State of
Nigeria,2004".
All the defendants pleaded guilty when the charges were
read to them.
Based on their “guilty" pleas, prosecution counsel, N.S
Ingawa prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Eya convicted and sentenced the six defendants to one
month social service each, within Enugu to commence on Friday
October 28, 2022. They also forfeited their phones to the
Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
six-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-enugu
***************************************
28 OCT 2022
Six Yahoo Boys Jailed in Port Harcourt
Six internet fraud kingpins: Idris Ibrahim, Oghenewowero
Teddy Emmanuel, Hillary Ifeanyi Nwosu, Friday Iwhighuavwe,
Abasii Biangake Willie and Richard Welle Chikodi were on
Thursday October 27, 2022 convicted and sentenced to various
terms by Justices P. M. Ayua, A. T. Mohammed and P. I. Ajoku
of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers
State.
They were arraigned by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on a separate one-count charge of impersonation contrary
to section 22 (2) b (i) of the Cybercrimes ( Prohibition,
Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.
The charge against Idris reads: "That you, Idris Ibrahim
sometimes in September, 2022 at , Warri, Delta State within
the within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently
represented yourself as investor working with a brokerage platform
"trading composure" on WhatsApp business account with intent to
gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence
contrary to section 22 (2) b (i) of the Cybercrimes ( Prohibition,
Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2)
(iv) of the same Act".
Nwosu's charge reads: "That you, Hillary Ifeanyi Nwosu on or
about 4th day of August, 2022, at Rukpokwu and Choba axis in
Port Harcourt, did fraudulently represent yourself as one Lucky
Duran, a citizen of the United States of America in your Telegram
social media account with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and committed an offence contrary to section 22 (3) a of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and
punishable under Section 22 (4) of the same Act".
They pleaded guilty to their respective charge.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, F. O. Amama,
M. T. Iko, C. O. Oni and I. N. Nwosu, prayed the courts to
convict and sentence them as charged.
Iwhighuavwe, Emmanuel, Nwosu and Wellie were convicted and
sentenced to two years imprisonment each with option of fines.
In the same vein, Ibrahim and Chikodi were convicted and
sentenced to one year in prison with option of Two Hundred
Thousand Naira (N200, 000.00) as fine payable into the
Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Judges also ordered that one iPhone 6X mobile device,
one iPhone 11 Pro, one black colour Toyota Camry with
registered number KUG 640 CA Abuja, one Samsung Galaxy
note 9, iPhone 12 Pro Max, Infinix S4, one elitebook Laptop,
one iPhone 6S, iPhone XR, one iPhone 7 and one blue itel
smart phone recovered from the convicts be forfeited to the
Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Convicts are to also depose an affidavit of good behaviour
before the court.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
six-yahoo-boys-jailed-in-port-harcourt
*************************************
27 OCT 2022
Man jailed for Cryptocurrency scam in Kaduna
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court on
October 26, 2022, convicted and sentenced one Emmanuel
Simon to three months in prison for offences bordering
on internet fraud fraud.
Simon was arrested by Operatives of the Kaduna Zonal
Command of the EFCC following intelligence linking him
to cybercrimes. He is said to have used the Instagram
account name, Hack4ord and Mrs Gina from California,
USA, to send scam messages to unsuspecting persons to
defraud them by telling them to invest in cryptocurrency
trading with the promise that they will make profit in
seven days.
The one count amended charge preferred against Simon
reads: "that you, Emmanuel Simon, sometime in July,
2022 in Kaduna within the Kaduna Judicial Division
of the High Court in an attempt to cheat, impersonated
one Mrs. Gina (an American citizen from California)
through your Instagram account named Hack4ord when
you claim to be into cryptocurrency trading investment,
when you knew you were not, and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 142 of the Kaduna State
Penal Code Law, 2017 and punishable under the same Law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the one count amended
charge.
The prosecution counsel, E.K Garba and defence counsel,
I.S Yahaya urged the court to enter the plea bargain
agreement between the parties as the judgment of the
court.
Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced Simon to a term
of three months imprisonment or a fine of N100, 000.00
He is also to forfeit an iPhone 12 Pro Max used to commit
the crime.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-jailed-for-cryptocurrency-scam-in-kaduna
**************************************
27 OCT 2022
Four Internet Fraudsters Convicted in Port Harcourt
The Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, secured
the conviction and sentencing of four internet fraudsters to
various terms before Justices P. I. Ayua, A. T. Mohammed, P. I.
Ajoku and S. I. Mark of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State
The convicts are: Brima Edegba, Nicholas Chris Chibuike,
Omagbemi Jeffrey and Andrew Idigo.
They were convicted on a separate one count charge of
impersonation contrary to section 22 (2) b (i) of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and
punishable under Section 22 (2) (iv) of the same Act.
The charge against Edegba reads: "That you, Brima Edegba
on or about the 13th of March, 2022 within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did fraudulently present yourself
as Alexamaka, a Bitcoin investor via your Telegram account
with phone number+2349131240923 with intent to gain advantage
for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition
Prevention etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under the same
section of the Act".
Chibuike's charge reads: "That you, Nicholas Chris Chibuike
(aka Philip) on or about 28th November, 2021 at Port Harcourt,
Rivers State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
with intent to defraud did obtain the sum of Two Thousand
Dollars ($2,000.00) USD only from your victims under the
false pretence that you are investing in Bitcoin business
for them, a pretext you knew to be false and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) and punishable under
section 1 (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related
Offences Act".
They pleaded “guilty” to their charges.
Based on their pleas, prosecution counsel, C. Okorie, E. K
Ebipade, F. O. Amama and K. W. Chukwuma-Eneh urged the court
to convict and sentence them as charged.
Counsel to the defendants: Paula Abudu, P. U. Ogbuehi, L.
Davies, and Eliko Golden pleaded with the Court to temper
justice with mercy, stating that they were first time offenders.
Justice Ayua convicted and sentenced Edegba to two years
imprisonment with Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000.00)
as fine.
Chibuike and Idigo were convicted and sentenced to one year
in the Correctional Service with an option of fine of One
Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000.00) for Chibuike and Two
Hundred Thousand Naira (N200.000.00) for Idigo.
Justice Mark also convicted and sentenced Omagbemi to three
years in the Correctional Service with Five Hundred Thousand
Naira (N500,000.00) as fine payable into the Consolidated
Revenue Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Judges also ordered that the two Samsung phones, one
HP laptop, one decoder, two home theaters, one Samsung A20
mobile device, one Samsung Galaxy A22 and one iphone12 Pro
Max used in committing the crime be forfeited to the Federal
Republic of Nigeria.
The convicts are also to depose an affidavit to be of good
behavior before the court.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
four-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-port-harcourt
*************************************
26 OCT 2022
EFCC Docks Internet Fraudster in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, October 26, 2022,
arraigned one Oke Ayomipo David before Justice Mojisola
Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos on a two-count charge bordering on possession
of documents containing false pretence, contrary to
Section 6 and 1 (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other
Related Fraud Offences Act 2006.
One of the counts reads: "Oke Ayomipo David, sometime
in the month of July 2022 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction
of this honourable court, had in your possession documents
containing false pretences, wherein you falsely represented
yourself as Hudson Mieogro, an American, for the purpose
of defrauding innocent victims, which document you knew
to be false."
He was not represented in court, as his counsel was
absent.
He, however, confirmed that he had been served with the
charges filed against him.
Consequently, the court allowed him to take his plea and
he pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.
Following his “not guilty” plea, the prosecuting counsel,
T.J. Banjo, prayed the court for a trial date and for the
remand of the defendant at the Correctional Facility.
Justice Dada adjourned the matter till November 18, 2022
for trial and ordered that the defendant be remanded at
the Correctional Centre of his choice.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-docks-internet-fraudster-in-lagos
************************************
26 OCT 2022
Enugu Court Sends 22 Internet Fraudsters to Jail
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Enugu
Zonal Command, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of twenty two (22 )internet fraudsters.
They were jailed by Justice Fatun Riman of the Federal
High Court sitting in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
The convicts are: Sunday Uchenna Jude, Paschal Aniagor
Tobechukwu,Prosper Nnachetam, David Ahams Chinyereugo,
Nwaike Emmanuel Onyedikachi, Ezugwu Chidera Kennedy,
Ezurike Chibueze Okorie, Ikechukwu Dirichukwu, Ahamefula
Wisdom Metuobi, Nwaike John Kennedy,Ike Chikezie Frank
and Damian Chinaemerem.
Others are: Nwakaibeya Chibueze Stanley,Chukwuebuka
Ohaeri Favour, Nwaike John Franklin,Emmanuel Chinemerem
Marvelous, Onuigbo Kingsley Chigozie, Henry Chukwualuka,
Chukwuemeka Godwin Ogbubor, Dike Obinna Collins Ebuka
Ilouno and Ngadi Chima.
They were convicted on Monday October 24 and Tuesday,
October 25, 2022, after pleading guilty to one- count
separate charge bordering on obtaining money under false
pretences.
The charge against Ebuka Ilouno reads, "That you, Ebuka
Ilouno sometime in 2022 in Enugu ,within the jurisdiction
of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, fraudulently impersonated
the identity of PATRICK BRYAN, a male foreigner who lives in
Dayton, Ohio, United States of America through a fake Facebook
account, with intent to obtain money from unsuspecting foreign
nationals and in order to gain financial advantage for yourself
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(3)
(a)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act
2015 and punishable under Section 22(4)of the same Act".
The defendants pleaded guilty to their charges when they
were read to them.
Based on their pleas, EFCC counsel, Michael Ani and S.N Ingawa
prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Riman convicted all the 22 defendants and sentenced
them to one year imprisonment each, with an option of N150, 000
(One Hundred and Fifty-Thousand Naira) as fine.
All the convicts forfeited their phones to the Federal
Government.
The press release contains a small photo of each 419er:
enugu-court-sends-22-internet-fraudsters-to-jail
*********************************************
26 OCT 2022
Court Sends Internet Fraudster to Jail in Benin
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court, Benin
City, Edo State on Tuesday October 25, 2022 convicted and
sentenced Victor Okoh to jail for fraud.
Okoh was arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC,
on one count charge bordering on personation.
The charge against Okoh reads: "that you, Victor Okoh between
2021 and 2022 at Sapele Road, off PZ junction Benin City Edo
State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
fraudulently personate the identity of Don Kupar dkhar, with
intent to obtain money from unsuspecting public and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
484 of the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria
(as applicable in Edo State ) 1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty prompting
the prosecution counsel, KY Bello to pray the court to convict
and sentence him accordingly. However, the defence counsel,
Dickson Egbewuere pleaded with the court to temper justice
with mercy as the defendant has become remorseful for his
action.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Okoh to two
years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine.
The judge ordered that the defendant’s phone and the sum
of Four Hundred and Seventy Four Thousand Forty One Kobo
(N474,041) found in his First Bank account be forfeited
to the Federal Government of Nigeria and that the account
be permanently closed.
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-in-benin
**************************************
26 OCT 2022
Lagos Court Jails Fraudster One Year
Justice O.A. Okunuga of the Lagos State High Court
sitting in Ikeja, on Wednesday, October 26, 2022,
convicted and sentenced one Olalekan Bolofinde to
one year imprisonment.
The convict was arraigned on a one-count charge bordering
on possession of fraudulent documents, an offence contrary
to Section 318 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011.
The count reads: "That you, Olalekan Olumide Bolofinde,
on or about the 28th day of July 2022 in Lagos, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud,
has in your possession documents printed from "Google voice
app" on your iPhone 11, which representation you knew or
ought to have known to be false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the one-count charge.
In view of his plea, the prosecuting counsel, S.O. Daji,
gave a review of the facts, detailing how intelligence
report had linked the defendant to the alleged crime.
The statements of the defendant and the items recovered
from him were also tendered in evidence against him by
the prosecution.
Following the guilty plea of the defendant and the evidence
presented before the court, the trial judge found him guilty
as charged.
The defence counsel, Opeyemi Labinjo, pleaded with the court
to temper justice with mercy, adding that the defendant was
a first-time offender.
After reviewing all the evidence and submissions of both
parties, Justice Okunuga sentenced the defendant to one-year
in prison, with an option of fine of N500, 000.
Items recovered from him, including iPhone 11 and HP
laptop were ordered forfeited to the Federal Government.
The defendant was also ordered to sign an undertaking to
be of good behaviour and never to engage in any form of
economic and financial crimes.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
lagos-court-jails-fraudster-one-year
*************************************
26 OCT 2022
EFCC Arraigns Man for Alleged Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, arraigned
one Oweleke Bobby Jospeh before Justice Mojisola Dada of
the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on a
two-count charge bordering on possession of documents
containing false pretence.
The offence is contrary to Section 6 and 1 (3) of the
Advance Fee Fraud and other Related Fraud Offences Act 2006.
One of the counts reads: "Oweleke Bobby Joseph (aka Prince
Andrew), on or about the 24th of August 2022 at Lagos , within
the jurisdiction of this honourable court, had in your possession
documents titled: "Google Account", where you falsely represented
yourself as Prince Andrew and that you were born on February
19th, 1960, which was printed from your iPhone and which document
you knew or ought to have known contained false pretence."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.
In view of his plea, the prosecuting counsel, M.S. Owede,
prayed the court for a trial date.
The defence counsel, Semilore Onifade, however, informed the
court that "we have reached out to the prosecution for a plea
bargain", and so prayed the court for "a short date to perfect
the process".
He further prayed that the defendant be remanded in the EFCC
custody in the meantime.
In response, the prosecution also confirmed the position of
the defence, with regard to being approached for a plea bargain.
Consequently, Justice Dada adjourned the matter till November
18, 2022 "for report and trial", and ordered that the defendant
be remanded at the Correctional Centre of his choice
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-man-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-lagos
******************************************
26 OCT 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Four Internet Fraudsters
in Port Harcourt
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on
Tuesday, October 25, 2022, secured the conviction of four
internet fraudsters: Akpolabe Ovie, Agbor Saviour Liberty,
Aso Welewa Gideon Apata and Tobukeme Precious Junior before
Justices P. M. Ayua and S.I Mark of the Federal High Court
sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
They were arraigned by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on
separate one count charge of impersonation, contrary to
section 22 (2) b (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section
22 (2) (iv) of the same Act.
The charge against Liberty reads: "That you, Agbor Saviour
Liberty sometime in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court fraudulently represented one Kenny Chesney
with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) b (i) of the Cybercrimes (
Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under
Section 22 (2) (iv) of the same Act".
The charge against Ovie reads: "That you, Akpolabe Ovie on
or about 29th day of September 2022 within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court fraudulently represent yourself as
one Eric in your Hangout and email ericharrison7892 with
intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) b (i) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under
Section 22 (2) (iv) of the same Act".
They pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, F. C. Obinwa
and I. N. Nwosu thereafter urged the court to convict them.
Counsel to the defendants, Ransome Akweda, Paula Abudu,
Ikechukwu Egwu Ugorji and L. Davies asked the court to tender
justice with mercy, stating that the defendants were first
time offenders.
Apata, Junior and Ovie were convicted and sentenced to two
years imprisonment each with option of Five Hundred Thousand
Naira (N500, 000.00) fine for Apata and Two Hundred Thousand
Naira (N200, 000.00) for the others.
Liberty was sentenced to three years with Three Hundred
Thousand Naira (N300, 000.00) as fine payable into the
Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria.
The Judges also ordered that the iPhone 7+, one elite book
laptop, one black iPhone 12, one red colour iPhone 7 and one
iPhone 13 Pro Max that were used in committing the crime be
forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The convicts are to also depose an affidavit of good behaviors
before the court.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
efcc-secures-conviction-of-four-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcourt
*************************************
26 OCT 2022
Man Convicted for Possession of Fraudulent Documents
in Kano
Justice Farouq Lawal of the Kano State High Court has
convicted and sentenced one Precious Mesele to two years
imprisonment.
Mesele was convicted after pleading guilty to a one count
charge of possession of fraudulent documents.
The charge reads "That you, PRECIOUS MESELE 'M', on or
about July, 2022 in Kano, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, attempted to commit cheating and in such
attempt did a certain act towards the commission of the
said offence to wit: have in your possession fraudulent
documents containing false pretence/romantic scam massages,
and that you thereby committed an offence contrary to and
punishable under Section 95 of the Penal Code Law".
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel asked the
court to convict the defendant accordingly.
Justice Lawal convicted and sentenced Mesele to two years
imprisonment or pay a fine of Forty Thousand Naira (N40,000).
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-convicted-for-possession-of-fraudulent-documents-in-kano
******************************************
25 OCT 2022
One Bags Two Years Jail Term for Customs Job Scam,
Three Others Convicted for Cybercrime in Oyo
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo
State on Friday, October 21, 2022 convicted and sentenced
the trio of Olukoya Emmanuel Adeyemi, Qoreeb Oluwadamilare
Fujah and Olayinka Ridwan Olatunji to various jail terms
for offences ranging from employment scam to cybercrime.
Olukoya was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment
on an amended two count charge that bordered on employment scam.
The convict had swindled his victims of N2million under the
pretext of securing jobs for them with the Nigeria Customs Service.
One of the counts reads: "That you, Olukoya Emmanuel Adeyemi 'M'
on or about the 26th day of April, 2019 in Ibadan within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud,
obtained the sum of Seventy-seven Thousand Naira (N77, 000.00)
from one Ajiboye Hamed through your Access Bank Account No.
0728344783, under the false pretence that you have given him
employment with the Nigeria Customs and that the payment is
for the Custom job replacement and training kit, a pretext
which you knew to be false and you deceitfully made it, and
you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1 (a)
of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act
2006 and punishable by Section 1 (3) of the same Act."
Upon his arraignment, he pleaded "guilty" to the charges
filed against him by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Subsequently, the prosecution counsel, Chidi Okoli prayed the
court to convict and sentence the defendant as charged.
Justice Agomoh, thereafter convicted and sentenced Olukoya to
two years imprisonment and ordered that restitutions be made
to the victims.
Also, Adeyemi, Qoreeb Oluwadamilare Fujah and Olayinka Ridwan
Olatunji were arraigned, convicted and sentenced on a separate
one count charge each for their involvement internet fraud
They pleaded 'guilty' to the charge preferred against the by
the EFCC.
Consequently, prosecution counsel, Abdulrasheed Suleiman prayed
the court to convict and sentenced them as charged.
Justice Agomoh convicted and sentenced Olatunji to one year
imprisonment and Fujah to six months jail term.
The court further ordered that Olayinka pay the sum of $10, 760.00
in restitution and forfeit all items recovered from him to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
In the same vein, Justice Bayo Taiwo of the State High Court
sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State on October 20, 2022, convicted
and sentenced one Akande Qudus Opeyemi to two months community
service on a one count charge for cybercrime.
Akande pleaded ‘guilty’ to the charge when it was read to him.
Also, the court ordered that he restitute his victim and forfeit
all items recovered from him to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the convicts:
one-bags-two-years-jail-term-for-customs-job-scam-three-others-convicted-for-cybercrime-in-oyo
**********************************************
25 OCT 2022
WhatsApp Scammer jailed for $100 Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja
Zonal Command today October 25, 2022, secured the conviction
of an internet fraudster, Ekechukwu Wilson Chinaza before
Justice F.A. Aliyu of the FCT High Court sitting in Apo,
Abuja.
He was convicted after pleading guilty to a one count charge
bordering on impersonation. The charge reads: "That you, Ekechukwu
Wilson Chinaza sometime in 2022 at Abuja within the jurisdiction
of this Honorable Court cheat by impersonation when you created
a WhatsApp profile page using a white lady’s picture with the
name Amber and under that assumed character did obtain the sum
of One Hundred United States Dollars ($100) from Brian in the
pretext that you are in a romantic relationship with her and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 321 of the
Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation (Abuja) 1990, and
punishable under Section 324 of the same Act".
Justice Aliyu, in convicting the defendant took cognizance
of the plea of the defence counsel for leniency on the grounds
that the defendant has a bed-ridden mum and had forfeited the
proceeds of the crime to the Federal Government.
The judge sentenced the convict to a fine of N200, 000 (Two
Hundred Thousand Naira Only) and community service at a location
close to his place of residence.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
whatsapp-scammer-jailed-for-100-fraud
************************************
25 OCT 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Prison
in Benin City
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City,
on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 convicted and sentenced an internet
fraudster, Victor Samuel Emaikwu to jail.
Emaikwu was arraigned on one count charge of fraudulent personation
by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
The charge against him reads: "that you, Victor Samuel Emaikwu
between 17th January, 2022 and 1st June 2022 in GRA, Benin City,
Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Anderson Thomas
who trades with Bitcoin on Sudo platform and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law
Cap.48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable to Edo
State)1976".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read
to him.
In view of his plea, the prosecuting counsel, F.O. Dibang
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendant
accordingly. However, counsel to the defendant, Olatigbe
Korede asked the court to temper justice with mercy as
the defendant had become remorseful for his action.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced. Emaikwu to two
years imprisonment with an option of Five Hundred Thousand
Naira fine
The judge ordered that the Toyota Corolla 2010 model car,
Elite HP Laptop and iPhone XR recovered in the course of
investigation which are proceeds of crime be forfeited to
the Federal government of Nigeria.
In the same vein, Justice Ikponmwonba on Monday October 24,
2022 convicted and sentenced an internet fraudster, Ojo
Festus, to two years imprisonment.
Festus was arraigned on one count charge of fraudulent
impersonation of Nicholas Kurt, a Russian citizen, with
intent to obtain money and thereby committed.an offence
contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Lode law Cap.48
Laws of deduct Bendel State of Nigeria ( as applicable
to Edo State)1976 and punishable under the same Law.
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Festus to two
years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine
The judge also ordered that an iPhone 7 and the balance
in his GTCO account be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of one of the 419ers:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin-city
**************************************
24 OCT 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Jailed in Kaduna
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court, Kaduna
on Monday, October 24, 2022, convicted and sentenced Lawal
Afis and Emmanuel Afolabi Adediran to prison on one count
charge each for internet-related offences
Afis, an undergraduate, defrauded one Johnson David whom
he tricked to pay transportation fee for a bicycle gift
through on an App known as Let-go.
The charge reads: "that you Lawal Afis on or about the 23rd
of September, 2022 at Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, attempted to commit an offence and in such
an attempt did a certain act towards the commission of the
said offence, to wit falsely presented a bicycle to one Johnson
David as a free gift in order to cheat him and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 57 of the Kaduna
State Penal Code and punishable under Section 307 of the
same Law".
The second defendant, Adeniran, assumed dual identities of
one Jim Pierce and Shawn Muller to defraud three American
citizens of their hard earned money through social media
platforms.
The charge reads: "that you, Emmanuel Afolabi Adeniran
( a.k.a Jim Pierce and Shawn Muller ) sometime in September,
2022 in Kaduna within the Kaduna Judicial Division of the
High Court with intent to cheat, falsely presented yourself
as Jim Pierce, Shawn Muller and cheated one Mary Jane, Roberta
and Linda ( all United States of America Citizens ) through
several social media applications and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal
Code Law, 2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same
Law".
They pleaded guilty to their respective charge.
Prosecution counsel, E.K Garba, consequently urged the
court to convict them as charged.
Justice Darius convicted and sentenced Afis and Adeniran
to a fine of N100, 000 and N150,000 respectively. In the
event they failed to pay the fines, they are to spend three
months and one year respectively, in prison.
The court also ordered the forfeiture of their proceeds
of crime to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
two-internet-fraudsters-jailed-in-kaduna
*************************************
21 OCT 2022
Court Jails Five Internet Fraudsters in Port Harcourt
Justice P. M. Ayua of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State has convicted and sentenced five internet
fraudsters to various jail terms in Port Harcourt.
The convicts: Godwin Egwenike Ifeanyi, Donatus Peter Uche,
Peculia Ikechukwu, Chibueke Aguta Basil and Gift Kalu were
jailed for impersonation and obtaining money by false pretence
contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other
Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.
They were convicted on Thursday, 20 October, 2022, after pleading
"guilty" to separate charges preferred against them by the Port
Harcourt Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The charge against IfeanyI reads: "That you, Godwin Egwenike
Ifeanyi sometime in June 2022 at Choba axis of Port Harcourt
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently
obtained from one Merryl Carter the sum of Two Hundred Australian
Dollars ($200) under the false pretence that you are a white
American Crypto trader which pretence you knew to be false and
thereby committed an offence contrary to section 1 (1) (a) of
the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act,
2006 and punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act".
The charge against Uche reads: "That you, Donatus Peter Uche
(aka Ikechukwu Peter Suga) sometime in November, 2021 at Port
Harcourt Rivers State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court with intent to defraud obtained Gift Cards valued Four
Thousand, Five Hundred United States Dollars ($4,500) from one
Jazmin Cisneros, a female American through your Instagram google
chats with user name, Suga under the false pretence that you are
a Korean Celebrity in love with her which pretence you knew to
be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to section
1 (1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences
Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act".
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, A. Chukwueggu,
and I. N. Nwozu prayed the court to convict and sentence the
defendants accordingly.
Counsel to the defendants, O. A. Agumagu, T. Ogaree, Igoh
Owhonda-Wopara, E. Eleanya and H. P. Robert prayed the court
to temper justice with mercy, adding that the defendants are
first time offenders with no previous criminal records.
Justice Ayua convicted and sentenced the defendants to two
years in prison with option of One Hundred Thousand Naira
(N100, 000.00) as fine
In a similar vein, the Judge also convicted and sentenced
Basil to one year in the Correctional Service with One Hundred
Thousand Naira (N100, 000.00) as fine.
Furthermore, Ikechukwu and Kalu were also convicted and
sentenced to two years in the Correctional Service or
N200,000.00 as fine payable.
The Judge ordered that the iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 8 Plus,
iPhone 11, iPhone 12 Pro Max, Redmit Note 7 and Infinix Note
7 mobile phones which they used in committing the crime be
forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They are to
be sold via public auction by the EFCC and the proceeds paid
into the Commission's Recovery Account domiciled with the
Central Bank of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-five-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcourt
*************************************
20 OCT 2022
Cyber – Fraud: Five Convicted in Oyo, One in Ogun
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of
six internet fraudsters to various jail terms.
The convicts are Agboola Khalid Babatunde, Okuneye Olamilekan
Damilola, Quadri Ahmed Olawale, Okafor Chibuzor Michael, Lawal
Emmanuel Adekunle and Victor Abumere Aigbe.
Babatunde, Olawale and Aigbe were arraigned on separate one
count charge that bordered on impersonation, an offence contrary
to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State
2000 and while Michael was docked on two counts for stealing.
Damilola was arraigned one count charge for aiding and abetting
while Adekunle was docked on one count charge of impersonation.
The convicts pleaded guilty to the offences preferred against
them by the EFCC.
They all pleaded guilty to their respective charges. Consequent,
prosecution counsel, Modupe Akinkoye, Abdulrasheed Suleiman,
Mabas Mabur and Shamsuddeen Bashir reviewed the facts of the
cases and prayed the courts to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly.
Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo of the Federal High Court sitting
in Abeokuta, Ogun State convicted and sentenced Adekunle to one
year imprisonment while Justice Bayo Taiwo of the State High
Court, Ibadan, Oyo State convicted and sentenced Olawale and
Aigbe to six months community service, while Michael bagged
two months community service.
Justice Olusola Adetujoye of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan
sentenced Babatunde to three months community service while
Damilola was sentenced to six months imprisonment by Justice
Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Furthermore, the courts ordered the convicts to restitute their
various victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 49ers:
cyber-fraud-five-convicted-in-oyo-one-in-ogun
**************************************
20 OCT 2022
Ekiti Laundryman Jailed 3years for Internet Fraud in Kwara
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin
on Thursday, October 20, 2022, sentenced one Fapohunda Paul Olasunkanmi,
a laundry man from Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State to three years imprisonment
for internet fraud related offences.
Fapohunda, 23, was arrested in Ado-Ekiti by operatives of the Ilorin
Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC
on April 26, 2022 with one iPhone 6, MacBook Apple Air Laptop and
Mercedes CLA 250, was found to be engaged in dating scam, posing to
be a white man named Ethan Jones from America to defraud unsuspecting
victims.
He also used fraudulent email accounts for other nefarious acts
including picker through bitcoins, cashapp and gift cards.
The convict was found to be in control of N92million believed to be
proceeds of illegal activities between August 2021 and April 2022.
He pleaded guilty to a one count charge.
The charge reads, "That you, Fapohunda Paul Olasunkanmi sometime in
the month of August 2018 in Ekiti within the jurisdiction of the Federal
High Court did fraudulently impersonate one Ethan Jones through your
email 53ethanjones53@gmail.com with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and you did benefit $930 dollars thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention
Act) 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act"
Prosecuting counsel, Andrew Akoja reviewed the facts of the case and
asked the court to convict the defendant as charged.
Justice Sani agreed with the prosecution counsel that the EFCC had
proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and convicted the defendant.
The Judge sentenced Fapohunda to three years imprisonment with option
of N400,000 (Four Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. The judge ordered that
one iPhone 12 Pro Max, Apple iPhone 6, MacBook laptop, Mercedes CLA 250
and a sum of $930 (Nine Hundred and Thirty United State Dollars) which
he raised as restitution be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
ekiti-laundryman-jailed-3years-for-internet-fraud-in-kwara
***********************************
20 OCT 2022
Fraudster Bags one Year jail Term in Kano
Justice Suleiman Baba Namalam of the Kano State High Court
has convicted and sentenced one Raphael Bassey Williams to
one year imprisonment.
Williams attempted to defraud a Kuwaiti citizen, Bader Mubaraq
by representing himself as a female American citizen looking
for a husband.
The charge read, "That you, Raphael Bassey Williams, Nigerian
citizen sometime in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this court
attempted to defraud one Bader Mubarrak, a foreigner from Kuwait
by falsely presenting yourself as Emmanuel Milani, an American
citizen which you knew is false and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 95 of the Penal Code and punishable
under Section 32 of the same law."
Williams pleaded guilty to the one count charge when it was
read to him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, Douglas I. Gift
asked the court convict him accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Namalam, convicted and sentenced the
defendant to one year imprisonment with option of Fifty
Thousand Naira (50,000) fine.
fraudster-bags-one-year-jail-term-in-kano
********************************
20 OCT 2022
Court Jails Four Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court, Benin
City, on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, convicted and sentenced
four internet fraudsters to jail.
They defendants: Nicholas Bamigwojo Agwu, Anamali Azuka,
Oseiwe Oifoghe and Nonye Fimber Dugbele were arraigned on
separate one count charge of unlawful possession of fraudulent
documents by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The charge against Agwu reads: "that you, Nicholas Bamigwojo
Agwu sometime in June 2022 within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did have in your possession on your iPhone
11 with IMEI Number 356546109602633 documents which you knew
or ought to have known contain a false pretense and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 6 of the Advance
Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and
punishable under section 1(3) of same Act".
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges
when they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, F.A.Jirbo and
I.M. Elodi prayed the court to convict and sentence the
defendants accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Agwu to three
years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine while Oifoghe bagged one year imprisonment with
an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
The duo of Dugbele and Azuka bagged two years imprisonment
or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira and One Hundred and
Fifty Thousand Naira.
The judge ordered that phones recovered during investigation
being instruments of crime be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria
court-jails-four-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
*********************************
20 OCT 2022
EFCC Arrests Three Internet Fraud Suspects in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Wednesday, October 19,
2022, arrested three suspected internet fraudsters. The
suspects: Abdulwaris Bayo Awwal, Subar Oluwaseun and Andrew
Paul were picked up from their hideouts at APDC Estate, Kubwa.
Items recovered from them include two laptops, five phones
of different brands and one iWatch.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
efcc-arrests-three-internet-fraud-suspects-in-abuja
**********************************
20 OCT 2022
EFCC Arrests 10 Suspected Internet Fraudsters
in Makurdi
Operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested ten suspected
internet fraudsters in Makurdi, Benue State.
They were arrested on Thursday October 20, 2022, at their
hideout in Makurdi, Benue State.
The suspects are Nelson Oche, Young Fortune, Elvis Edache,
Terungwa Samuel, Mbaukaan Solomon, Edward Ejembi, Ugwu
Shadrach, Judith Binga, Apuu Dorbee and Mercy Dalie.
Items recovered from them include eleven phones of different
brands, one international passport, two power banks and one
Toyota Camry car.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-10-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
**********************************************
20 OCT 2022
Fake EFCC Operative Arrested for Defrauding
Belgian €45,000
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, have arrested a 29-year old Ume Ifechukwu Clinton for
impersonation, computer related fraud, obtaining by false
pretence and money laundering.
Clinton was arrested on October 18, 2022 at No 46 Atoke
Gbadebo Street, Isheri, Lagos, by operatives of the EFCC,
following a news story published by an online portal:
foundation for investigative journalism narrating how
Clinton defrauded Axelle Mahieu, an educator working as
a caregiver in Brussels, Belgium.
The victim was surfing through her Facebook page in November
2021, when she saw that someone had sent her a message. The
message was from Ume Ifechukwu Clinton, who introduced himself
as "a friend of a friend".
As they continued chatting in the following days, Clinton
told Mahieu that he was an official of the EFCC, with a
fake Identity Card and Nigerian Passport as proofs.
After several months of video calls and gaining Mathieu's
trust, Clinton allegedly proposed a cryptocurrency business
to her, assuring her of huge profit and secured capital.
After convincing the Belgian, Clinton ended up defrauding
her of €45,000.
He will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
fake-efcc-operative-arrested-for-defrauding-belgian-45-000
***********************************
18 OCT 2022
Nigeria, India Collaborate Against Economic and
Financial Crimes
Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, CFE,
CAMS, and the Director, Enforcement Directorate (ED) of
India, Sanjay Kumar Mishra have agreed on establishing
partnership and co-operation between both agencies in
matters of mutual interest and concern, specifically
in relation to Money Laundering and other Economic
and Financial crimes.
The Executives of both agencies who expressed consensus
on the need to nip economic and financial crimes in the
bud, shared thier experiences while attending the 90th
Interpol General Assembly in New Delhi, India on Wednesday,
19th October, 2022 at the ED's Headquarters in New Delhi.
The press release contains a photo:
photo-news-7
********************************
18 OCT 2022
EFCC Arrests 15 Suspected internet Fraudsters in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday,
18 October, 2022, arrests fifteen suspected internet fraudsters.
They were arrested during a sting operation at the River Park
Estate, Lugbe, Abuja, after a credible intelligence on their
alleged criminal activities.
The suspects are Ameh Sunday, Emanuel Akorede, Olamide Abdulwasiu
Abdullahi, Akinola Samuel, Segun George, Adaka Joseph and Odaka
Desmond.
Others include Timilehin Adegbola, Atowodu Olaoluwa, Abiodun
Samuel, Martins Richard, Pabor Nathan Austen, Israel Kue, Ezeobi
Francis and Mpokor Emmanuel.
Items recovered from them include six exotic cars, Laptops
and mobile phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-15-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
***************************************
18 OCT 2022
Kogi Court Jails 'Yahoo Boy’ 5years for N56.3m Fraud
A Kogi State High Court sitting in Lokoja has sentenced 23-year-old
Yusuf Salawu, from Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State to five
years imprisonment without option of fine over offences bordering
on control of proceeds of crime
Justice Josiah Majebi found Yusuf guilty of one count charge
preferred against him by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge reads:
"That you, Yusuf Salawu, sometime between the year 2021 and 2022
in Lokoja within the Judicial Division of the Kogi State High Court
did knowingly had under your control the gross sum of N56,317,760
(Fifty Six Million, Three Hundred and Seventeen Thousand, Seven
Hundred and Sixty Naira Only ) being part of the gross sum of
N116,685,719 (One Hundred and Sixteen Million, Six Hundred and
Eighty Five Thousand, Seven Hundred and Nineteen Naira Only) which
is reasonably suspected to be have been unlawfully obtained and
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 320 of the Penal Code"
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
Upon his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Andrew Akoja prayed the
court to convict the defendant as charged.
In his judgment on Monday, October 17, 2022 Justice Majebi held
that the prosecution had established a prima-facie case against
the defendant to warrant his conviction
The court in passing sentence took into consideration the
allocutus made by Yusuf's counsel and sentenced him to 5 years
imprisonment term.
The judge, who decried youth involvement in cybercrime warned
them to desist from the act as the consequences were dire.
The press re;ease contains a photo of the 419er:
kogi-court-jails-yahoo-boy-5years-for-n56-3m-fraud
***********************************
18 OCT 2022
Internet Fraudster Jailed Six Months for Impersonation
Justice Dije Abdu Aboki of the Kano State High Court has
convicted and sentenced one Yusuf Bukar Gambo to one and
half years imprisonment.
Gambo was convicted after he pleads guilty to a four count
charge which borders on cheating and impersonation.
Gambo was said to have cloned the Facebook accounts of
some American citizens and used their identities to defraud
unsuspecting members of the public.
One the counts reads, "That you, Yusuf Bukar Gambo, Nigerian
sometime in 2022 at Kano within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court with intent to commit cheating fraudulently
impersonate Alvie Gilliam, an American citizen by cloning
her Facebook account, pretending to be her and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to section 321 of the Penal
Code and punishable under section 324 of the same law".
Gambo pleaded guilty to the four counts when they were
read to him.
In view of his plea, counsel for the prosecution, Douglas
I. Gift asked the court to convict him accordingly.
Counsel representing the defendant, A.M Yusuf pleaded with
the court to temper justice with mercy in sentencing the
convict.
Consequently, Justice Aboki convicted and sentenced the
defendant to six months imprisonment on count one with
option of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000) fine.
On counts two to four, the convict was sentenced to four
months imprisonment with option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira (N200, 000) fine on each count.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-jailed-six-months-for-impersonation
*************************************
18 OCT 2022
Five Suspected Internet Fraudsters Nabbed in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, October 18,
2022, arrested five suspected internet fraudsters.
The suspects, Eze Joseph Chukwunenye, James T. Anyaele,
Temisanren Fidel Banro, Chris Edesiri and Favour Adagbrasa,
were nabbed in a sting operation at Kubwa, Abuja for alleged
involvement in cybercrimes.
Five phones of different brands and one Lexus ES 330 car
were recovered from them.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
five-suspected-internet-fraudsters-nabbed-in-abuja
************************************
18 OCT 2022
Port Harcourt Court Sends Three Internet Fraudsters to Jail
Three internet kingpins: Jerry Thankgod, Gospel James and
Matthew Kelvin Fejiro , were on Wednesday and Thursday October
12 and 13, 2022 convicted and sentenced to four years imprisonment.
They were jailed by Justice S. D. Pam of the Federal High Court
sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
They were arraigned by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a separate
one-count charge of impersonation.
The charge against Uduak reads: 'That you Gospel Uduak James
on or about 6th August, 2022 at , Doxa Street, Odili Road,
Port Harcourt within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
while on Hangout chats with one Bobbie fraudulently impersonated
Chase Rice, an American Singer and song writer with intent to
unlawfully gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) b (i) of the Cybercrimes
( Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under
Section 22 (2) (iv) of the same Act".
All the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges when they
were read to them individually.
In view of their guilty pleas, prosecution counsel, F. O. Amama,
A. Chukwueggu and N.A Dodo prayed the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants, P. A. Abudu, F. A. Bigha and
D. C. Ebiriukwu prayed the court to temper justice with mercy,
stressing that they are first- time offenders with no previous
criminal records.
Justice Pam convicted and sentenced Thankgod and James to one
year imprisonment each with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira (N200, 000) as fine. The judge also convicted and sentenced
Fejiro to two years imprisonment with an option of Three Hundred
Thousand Naira (N300, 000.00) as fine. All the convicts forfeited
their phones to the government.
The convicts made their ways into the Correctional Centres by
impersonating foreigners and defrauding their victims, through
phony claims and fraudulent schemes. They assumed different
names of foreigners to lend weight to their claims.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
port-harcourt-court-sends-three-internet-fraudsters-to-jail
***************************************
18 OCT 2022
Corps Member, 4 Others Jailed for Cybercrime in Ilorin
A 28-year-old member of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC,
serving in Igara Local Government Area of Edo State, Adamu Shaibu,
has been sentenced to nine years imprisonment over offences bordering
cybercrime and possession of fraudulent funds.
Shaibu, an indigene of Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State
was convicted alongside four others: Olasupo Abdullateef Olawale,
from Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State, Aguh Henry Chicherem
from Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, one Ridwan Abiodun
Abdulganiyu and Qozeem Shuaib from Ilorin West local Government
Area of Kwara State, before Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara
State High Court, Ilorin.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday, October 17, 2022 arraigned the defendants
on separate charge, to which they all pleaded guilty.
Count one of the charge against Adamu reads:
"That you, Adamu Shaibu, between April and August, 2021 in Lokoja,
within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court did retain the
control of the sum of $164 USD through a cashapp you fraudulently
obtained from one Baraman, which you knew to be proceed of criminal
conduct and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 17 (a) & (b) of the Economic and Financial Crimes
(Establishment) Act, 2004."
Rasheedat Alao and Aliyu Adebayo who prosecuted the cases on behalf
of the Commission tendered the statements and items recovered from
the defendants in evidence and urged the courts to convict them
as charged.
Justice Sani sentenced Adamu to three years imprisonment on each
of the three counts brought against him with option of 100 percent
of what he benefited. The judge ordered that the convict's two mobile
phones and a draft brought by him as restitution be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
The judge also sentenced Olasupo to three years imprisonment on
each of the two counts preferred against him with option of fine
of N1,043,171 on Count One and N10,840,574.86 on Count Two. The
convict, according to the judge shall forfeit his two phones and
one MacBook, which he used to perpetrate the crime to the Federal
Government.
Aguh on the other hand, bagged two years imprisonment or a fine
of N400,000 (Four Hundred Thousand Naira Only). He is also to
forfeit his 2014 Toyota Camry Car, Mac iPad pro, Samsung S9 and
iPhone 6S.
Equally, Justice Sani sentenced Ridwan to a prison term of two
years with option of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine
and ordered the forfeiture of one infinix phone, which he used
as instrumentality of the crime.
For Qozeem, Justice Yusuf sentenced him to six months imprisonment
with an option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
corps-member-4-others-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*********************************************
17 OCT 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court, Benin
City, Edo State on Monday October 17, 2022 convicted and
sentenced Austin Okolo and Osayande Osariemen to jail for
fraud.
The duo were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a separate
charge bordering on possession of fraudulent documents and
personation.
The charge against Osariemen reads:
"that you, Osayande Osariemen sometimes between 2021 and 2022
at Benin-Auchi by-pass, Edo State within the. Jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court did fraudulently personate the identity
of Lucas Tasmus, a celebrity dancer from Sweden with intent
to obtain money from unsuspecting public and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under section 484 of the
Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable
in Edo State) 1976."
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty prompting the
prosecution counsel, KY Bello to pray the court to convict and
sentence them accordingly. However, the defence counsel, B. E.
Ambrose pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy
as the defendants have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Okolo to two years
imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine
while Oseriemen bagged three years imprisonment or a fine of
Two Hundred Thousand Naira.
The judge ordered that a Lexus RX 350 car, phone, the sum of
Three Hundred and Eighty Eight Thousand Naira (N388,000) found
in Austin Okolo account domiciled in United Bank for Africa and
the balance of N37,394.22 in Zenith Bank account and N3,459 in
UBA. account belonging to Oseriemen be forfeited to the Federal
Government of Nigeria. The court ordered that the bank accounts
be permanently closed.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin
*********************************************
14 OCT 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Warri
Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, Warri, Delta
State on Thursday, October 13, 2022 convicted and sentenced
two internet fraudsters, Ossien Godwin Isioma and Obiora Divine
Chijioke, to prison for fraud.
The duo were arraigned on one count charge of unlawful possession
of proceeds of crime by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The charge against Isioma reads: "that you, Ossien Godwin Isioma
sometime between 2021 and 2022 in Benin, Edo State within the.
Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did take possession of the
aggregate sum of N1, 027,000.00 transferred into your bank account
number 2110464598 domiciled in Zenith bank by one Omoghan Destiny
which funds you knew form part of your unlawful acts to wit: Internet
fraud and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(1)(a)
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act
and punishable under Section 18(2) of the same Act."
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge,
prompting the prosecution counsel, I.M Elody to request the court
to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly. However, counsel
to the defendants, Pascal Ugbome and A.J. Onwunaje pleaded for
leniency as the defendants had become remorseful for their action.
Justice Abang convicted and sentenced Isioma and Chijioke to one
year imprisonment or a fine of One Million Naira each.
The court ordered that the phones recovered from the defendants
during investigation and the sum of Two Hundred and Two Thousand,
Seven Hundred and Nineteen Naira, Ninety-nine Kobo (N202,719.99)
found in Chijioke's bank account, being instruments and proceed
of crime be forfeited to the federal government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-warri
**************************************
14 OCT 2022
Court Sends Six Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on October 12
and 13, 2022 secured the conviction of six internet fraudsters
efore Justices Efe Ikponwonba and M. Itsueli of the Edo State
High Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State
The defendants are Edeorodion Terry, Elozie Miracle, Olarewaju
Adeberun, Ikechukwu Orji Michael, Gabriel Igelige and Lucky
Ifeanyi Egwuatu.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Commission
on a separate one count charge of impersonation, obtaining by
false pretence and retention of proceeds of crime.
The charge against Egwuat reads: "that you, Lucky Ifeanyi Egwuat
sometime between 25th May, 2000 to 25th May 2022 in Benin City,
Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
retain the aggregate sum of N223,635,376.82 (Two Hundred and
Twenty Three million, Six Hundred and Thirty Five Thousand, Three
Hundred and Seventy Six Naira Thirty - Five Kobo) in your Guaranty
Trust Bank account 0605353171 knowing that same represent proceeds
of your criminal conduct to wit; Cybercrime and thereby committed
an offence contrary to section 17(C) of the Economic and Financial.
Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act 2004 and punishable under
section 17(b) of same Act".
The charge against Miracle reads: "that you, Elozie Miracle on
or about the 25th day of August,2022 in Benin City, within the
jurisdiction of this Honorable Court with intent to defraud
falsely represent yourself to be one Sunil Naga- KK (an Indian
man) and thereby committed an offence contrary and punishable
under Section 484 of the Criminal Code, Cap 48 Laws of Bendel
State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State) 1976.
The defendants pleaded guilty prompting the prosecution counsel,
Francis Jirbo, K.U Udus and Ibrahim Mohammed to ask the court
to convict and sentence them accordingly.
The duo of Egwuat and Miracle bagged three years imprisonment
with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira as fine while Igelige
and Terry were sentenced to two years imprisonment or a fine of
Two Hundred Thousand Naira each.
The duo of Olarewaju and Michael bagged one year imprisonment
with an option of One Hundred Thousand Naira each.
The court ordered that a Toyota Camry SE (2007 Model) belonging
to Olarewaju be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria
through the EFCC. The court also ordered that the bank accounts
of Egwuat and Michael, being instruments of crime, be closed.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-sends-six-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin
*******************************************
14 OCT 2022
Kwara Poly Student Jailed 6months for $9,891 Fraud
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, October 14, 2022 secured the
conviction of 31-year-old Bashiru Azeez Seyi, a native of
Oyan in Odo-Otin Local Government Area, Osun State, for
offences bordering on internet fraud.
Bashiru, a student in the Marketing Department of Kwara
State Polytechnic, Ilorin was prosecuted on one count by
the EFCC before Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State
High Court sitting in Ilorin.
The charge reads:
"That you, Bashiru Azeez Seyi, sometime between July, 2020
and January, 2022 in Ilorin, within the jurisdiction of this
Honorable Court knowingly had under your control the gross
sum of $9,891 (Nine Thousand, Eight Hundred and Ninety One
United States Dollars) which you knew to be unlawfully obtained
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 319A of the Penal Code"
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
Following his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Sesan Ola, reviewed
the facts of the case and urged the court to convict the defendant
as charged.
Justice Yusuf, in his judgment sentenced the defendant to six
months imprisonment with N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira
Only) as option of fine. The judge also ordered the forfeiture
of the convict's car, one iPhone XR, and Hp laptop to the
Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
kwara-poly-student-jailed-6months-for-9-891-fraud
***************************************
14 OCT 2022
Four Jailed for $4,254 Internet Scam in Kaduna
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court on
October 13, 2022, convicted and sentenced four Internet
fraudsters : Jeremiah Fakolade, Tisan Ashei (aka Ji Hoon),
Victor Oluwa (aka Smith Nicholson), and Daniel Cyprian
Chima(aka Hadiza Khuriam),to various jail terms for
cybercrime and Impersonation.
They were convicted after pleading guilty to their
respective one count charge.
While Fakolade bagged three months imprisonment with an
option of fine of N100, 000.00, Ashei( aka Ji Hoon) was
sentenced to six months imprisonment with the same option
of fine. But the latter was ordered to forfeit one Apple
iPhone 7 and the sum of N 500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand
Naira) to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Oluwa (aka Smith Nicholson), was sentenced to six months
imprisonment or an option of fine of N150,000.00 (One
Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), and forfeits N100,000.00
recovered proceeds of crime, a Techno Spark 8 KG7h phone,
and one Techno Camon 19 C16.
Chima (aka Hadiza Khuriam), bagged six months imprisonment
or an option of fine of N150, 000.00. He is also to forfeit
to the Federal Government of Nigeria the sum of $100.
The quartet were arrested in Kaduna following intelligence
on their alleged involvement in internet-related fraud.
The charge against Fakolade reads, "that Miracle Festus
sometime in July, 2022 in Kaduna within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court attempted to commit the offence
of cheating by impersonation when he impersonated himself
as an agent of Special Advocacy Weblog, a Bitcoin company
and in that false identity attempted to cheat one M. Jahangir
the sum of $250(Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars) and that you
Jeremiah Fakolade abetted the said Miracle Festus in the
commission of the said offence and you have thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 47 of the Kaduna State Penal
Code Law 2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law".
Ashei was alleged to have "between January and August 2022
at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
cheated one Alena of the total sum of $3000.00(Three Thousand
US Dollars) only when you pretended to be Ji Hoon; an Asian
on several online social media applications, which you knew
to be false and you thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law of 2017
and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law".
The one count charge against Victor Oluwa reads, "sometime
between March to August, 2022 in Kaduna within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did commit an offence to wit cheating
by impersonation wherein you falsely represented yourself as
Smith Nicholson (a military personnel from United States of
America) and in such assumed identity induced one Quasia Conner
from Texas to pay to you a total sum of $904(Nine Hundred and
Four USD) through vanilla card and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code
Law, 2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law".
Chima was alleged to have, "sometime in September 2021 in
Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did
commit an offence to wit; cheating by impersonation wherein
you falsely represented yourself as Hadiza Khuriam (a white
woman) and in such assumed identity induced one Jauangir Abasi
from Pakistan to pay to you a total sum of $100(One Hundred
USD) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017 and punishable
under Section 309 of the same Law".
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
four-jailed-for-4-254-internet-scam-in-kaduna
*****************************************
13 OCT 2022
Mechanic Bags 12 Months Imprisonment for Cybercrime in Kwara
Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar of Kwara State High Court, Ilorin
on Thursday, October 13, 2022, sentenced a 27-year-old Mechanic,
Adebayo Muhamed Bolaji to twelve months imprisonment, having
found him guilty of offences bordering on cybercrime and
possession of fraudulent funds.
Adebayo, who hails from Ilorin West Local Government Area of
Kwara State was arraigned on a two-count charge before the court
on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 by the Ilorin Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Adebayo’s journey to the Nigerian Correctional Centre started
on September 15, 2022 when the Commission acting on intelligence
about the activities of some internet fraudsters operating along
Airport Road, Ilorin effected his arrest.
Count 2 of the charge reads:
"That you, Adebayo Muhamed Bolaji, sometime in the month
of September 2021 and September 2022 in Ilorin, within the
jurisdiction of this Honorable Court knowingly had under
your control the sum of N3, 200,000 (Three Million, Two
Hundred Thousand Naira) through your bank account number
2011025023 domiciled with Kuda Microfinance Bank Ltd,
reasonably suspected to be have been unlawfully obtained
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 319A of the Penal Code"
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
Relying on the guilty plea by the defendant, his confessional
statement and the uncontroverted evidence of the prosecution,
Justice Abdulgafar convicted and slammed Adebayo with six months
suspended sentence on counts 1 and 2, to run concurrently. The
judge also ordered that the convict’s Toyota Camry, one iPhone
13 and the sum of $520 (Five Hundred and Twenty United States
Dollars) which he brought as restitution be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
mechanic-bags-12-months-imprisonment-for-cybercrime-in-kwara
************************************************
11 OCT 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms In Makurdi
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and
sentencing of two internet fraudsters.
The convicts : Francis Ekene Kerry and Francis Emmanuel
Chibuike, were jailed on Tuesday, October 11, 2022 by
Justice A. R. Mohammed of the Federal High Court sitting
in Abuja.
They were convicted after pleading guilty to a one- count
separate charge preferred against them by the EFCC.
The charge against Kerry reads:
"That you, Francis Ekene Kerry, sometime in 2022 within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud
advertised to the public on your Instagram account named
Official Page of Petra-Techz as a cyber security expert and
defrauded unsuspecting foreigners, a message which materially
misrepresented facts and caused the recipients a cumulative
loss of N1, 535,471 (One Million, Five Hundred and Thirty Five
Thousand, Four Hundred and Seventy One Naira only ) and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
14(2) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention Etc) Act, 2015".
They both pleaded "guilty" to the charges when they were read
to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsels: George Chai-Yakua,
reviewed the facts of the cases before the court, while praying
that the defendants be convicted and sentenced accordingly.
Delivering judgment, Justice Muhammed convicted and sentenced
Kerry to one year imprisonment, with an option of fine of
N200,000.00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira).
Chibuike was also convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment,
with an option of fine of N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira
Only).
The two convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre,
when they were arrested by operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command
of the EFCC for impersonating foreigners and defrauding their
victims through false claims.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-makurdi
**************************************
11 OCT 2022
Court Sends Three Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
Three internet fraudsters, Daniel Chidube Emeka, Ukazu Henry
Chikwudi and Akputu Collins, were on Tuesday October 11, 2022
convicted and sentenced to seven years imprisonment.
They were jailed by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High
Court sitting in Benin City.
Their conviction was based on their arraignment by the Benin
Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, separately on a one- count charge of impersonation and
obtaining by false pretence.
The charge against Emeka reads: "that you Daniel Chidube
Emeka (M) sometimes between 2021 to 9th September 2022 in
Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this honourable
court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Javon
Blue, a verified and legitimate Bitcoin trader and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of
Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State) 1976."
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charge when they were
read to them individually.
Based on their pleas of guilt, prosecution counsel, Ibrahim
Mohammed and I.K. Agwai prayed the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba, thereafter, convicted and sentenced Emeka
to three years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira ( N200, 000) as fine while Collins and Chukwudi bagged two
years imprisonment each, or a fine of (N200, 000) each.
The judge ordered the forfeiture of a Mercedes-Benz GLK350
recovered from Emeka and the sum of N1,932,893.73 ( One Million,
Nine Hundred and Thirty Two Thousand, Eight Hundred and Ninety
Three Naira, Seventy Three kobo) in his Fidelity bank account.
Also to be forfeited are the defendant's phones and balances
in other bank accounts, such as, Sterling bank, Keystone bank,
First Bank and Wema bank as proceeds of crime. All the accounts
are to be permanently closed. In addition, all the defendants
are to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The road to the Correctional Centre opened for the convicts,
when they were arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal Command
of the EFCC, for internet-related offences. One of the convicts,
Emeka represented himself as Javon Blue, a verified and legitimate
Bitcoin trader in order to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-sends-three-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin
****************************************
7 OCT 2022
EFCC Arrests Six Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Makurdi
Operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested six
suspected internet fraudsters in Makurdi, Benue State.
They were arrested on Friday, October 7, 2022, at their
hideout in a hotel in Makurdi, Benue State.
The suspects are Innocent Joy, Karean Bitto, Iwuji Trans
Ugochukwu, Samuel Kpemyol, Tonny Ochekw and Jassey Jimmy.
Items recovered from them include: laptops, IPads, iPhones,
two cars and various brands of electronic products.
They will soon be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-six-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
******************************************
6 OCT 2022
Court Jails Five Internet Fraudsters in Calabar, Uyo
Justices Ijeoma Ojukwu and Agatha Okeke of the Federal High
Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State, and Uyo, Akwa
Ibom State, have convicted and sentenced five internet fraudsters
to various jail terms.
The convicts: Mmabuchi Anthony Chinaemerem, John Bassey Akpan,
Eneji Matthew Ngaji, Louis Samuel Akanimoh and Uchenna Ibekwe,
were jailed on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 and Tuesday, October
4, 2022 respectively, for fraudulent impersonation and obtaining
by false pretence.
While Chinaemerem, Akpan and Ngaji were convicted by Justice
Ojukwu, Akanimoh and Ibekwe were jailed by Justice Okeke.
They were all convicted after pleading guilty to one-count
separate charge, when arraigned by the Uyo Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge against Ngaji reads:
"That you, Eneji Matthew Ngaji ( a.k.a Kayden Malachovski,
Glen Benham) sometime in 2022 in Nigeria within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court with intent to obtain property and
gain advantage for yourself, fraudulently presented yourself
as Kayden Malachovski, Glen Benham on Telegram and obtained
the sum of Ninety Dollars ($90) from Nellie Yambo, Lorie
odriguez respectively and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) & (ii) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention E.T.C) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (b)
(iv) of the same Act".
The charge against Akanimoh reads:
"That you, Louis Samuel Akanimoh “M” sometime in 2022 within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable court did fraudulently
impersonate Daniel Dailey and Fernando Luis on WhatsApp with
intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention) Act 2015 and punishable under Section
22 (3) of the same section"
In view of their guilty pleas, EFCC counsel, S. I. Yaryasa
prayed the court to convict and sentence them as charged.
However, defence counsels, Cyprian Afahanam and M. I. Osimen
prayed the court for leniency in sentencing the defendants.
Justice Ojukwu convicted and sentenced Chinaemerem and Akpan
to six months imprisonment each, with an option of fine of
N500, 000 ( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) each. Ngaji was
convicted and sentenced to five months imprisonment, with
an option of fine of N500,000. He was ordered to restitute
the sum of $90( Ninety United States Dollars) to his victim
through the EFCC.
All the three convicts forfeited all instruments used in
committing their crimes to the Federal Government. Additionally,
they were ordered to sign an undertaking to be of good behaviours
henceforth.
Justice Okeke convicted and sentenced Akanimoh and Ibekwe to
two months and two years jail terms respectively, without an
option of fine.
Ibekwe was ordered to restitute the sum of N1.2million( One
Million, Two Hundred Thousand Naira only) to his victims through
the EFCC and Akanimoh to restitute $460( Four Hundred and Sixty
United States Dollars) to his victims. They also forfeited their
phones to the government.
The convicts made their ways into the Correctional Centres, when
they were arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the
EFCC, for internet-related offences. Some of them were found to
be impersonating foreigners to defraud their victims. They were
subsequently prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-five-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar-uyo
***********************************************
6 OCT 2022
Three Internet Fraudsters, Oil Thief, Bag Jail Terms
in Port Harcourt
Three internet fraudsters: Bernard Peter, Wisdom Handsome
Isiakm and Nwabueze Nnemeka, alongside an oil thief, Emeka
Stanley, have been convicted and sentenced to eight years
imprisonment in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
They were jailed by Justices E. A. Obile, S. D. Pam and
A.T. Mohammed of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt.
All the judges convicted them variously on October 4,
September 29, and September 6, 2022, after pleading guilty
to one-count separate charge, consequent on their arraignment
by the Port Harcourt's Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge against Peter reads:
"That you Bernard Peter on or about April 2021 at Unity
Estate, Ada Gorge by Chinda in Port Harcourt, Rivers State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
fraudulently impersonate one Sonia Jones via a Telegram
account with the intent to gain advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offense contrary to Section 22
(2) (b) (i) of Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.)
Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) of the same
Act."
[The rest of the article appeaers to be about "regular"
fraudsters as opposed to Advance Fee Fraud (419) criminals,
so we have omitted that reporting]
The press release contains photos:
three-internet-fraudsters-oil-thief-bag-jail-terms-in-port-harcourt
********************************************
5 OCT 2022
Footballer Bags 12 years for Internet Fraud in Ilorin
A professional footballer, Jacob Wisdom Chukwuemeka, was
on Monday, October 4, 2022 convicted and sentenced to six
years imprisonment, for offences bordering on internet
fraud and possession of fraudulent funds.
He was jailed by Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal
High Court sitting in Ilorin.
Chukwuemeka was jailed, after pleading guilty to two-count
charges bordering on possession of fraudulent funds, owing
to his arraignment by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Count one of the charge reads:
"That you, Jacob Wisdom Chukwuemeka between 6th May 2021
and 22nd April 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honorable
Court did retain the control of the gross sum of N792,454.00
(Seven Hundred and Ninety Two Thousand, Four Hundred and Fifty
Four Naira Only) in your bank account number 3137249795 with
the name: Jacob Wisdom Chukwuemeka domiciled with First Bank
Plc which you knew to be proceeds of criminal conduct and
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 17 (a) and (b) of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission (Establishment) Act 2004"
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Consequent on his plea, prosecuting counsel, Aliyu Adebayo,
prayed the court to convict and sentence him as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Sani sentenced Chukwuemeka to three
years imprisonment on count one and two respectively, which
are to run concurrently. He was, however, given an option of
fine of N792,454.00 (Seven Hundred and Ninety-Two Thousand,
Four Hundred and Fifty-Four Naira Only) on count one, and
N300,000 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on count two.
The i-phone 11 he used to commit the crime and a draft of
N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only) were
forfeited to the Federal Government.
In addition, the court ordered the convict to restitute
his victim, the sum of N524,454.00 (Five Hundred and Forty
Two Thousand, Four Hundred and Fifty Four Naira Only) being
the balance of the proceeds of his fraudulent dealings
against him.
Chukwuemeka's journey to the Correctional Centre began,
when he was arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal
Command of the EFCC, for retaining suspicious funds in
his bank accounts. He was investigated and could not
account for the funds.
footballer-bags-12-years-for-internet-fraud-in-ilorin
********************************
1 OCT 2022
EFCC Arrests Two Siblings, 53 Others for Suspected
Internet Fraud in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested two siblings:
Ogunbanjo Abiodun Olakunle and Ogunbanjo Omotayo Akorede,
alongside fifty-three( 53) others, for suspected involvement
in internet fraud.
They were arrested on Friday, September 30, 2022 at Awa-Ijebu
area of Ibadan, Oyo State, following surveillance and credible
intelligence worked upon by the EFCC, on their suspected internet
-related fraudulent activities.
The other suspects are: Arasi Taiwo Tobiloba, Oloyode Segun
Ayomide, Bello Mustapha Abidemi, Osinbanjo Israel Adetola,
Sulaimon Lateef Damilare, Bello Ayorinde Olamilekan, Sulaimon
Olatunde Zacchaeus, Adeagbo Kolade Abiodun, Odeko Adedoye
Olamide, Arasi Oluwaseun Tobiloba, Ibrahim Sulaiman Olanrewaju,
Akinola Nasir Abiola, Ibrahim Nasirudeen Abiola, Ibrahim Malik
Michael, Lekan Oye Olamide, Nofiu Abdulazeez Omogbolahan, Samson
Ayilara Oyebode and Stephen Godwin Olawoye.
Others are: Ogunbanjo Owolabi Ayodele, Sanni Sunday Yusuf,
Balogun Damilare Adewale, Balogun Azeez Damilola, Adeniran
Babatunde Akande, Owolade Shamsudeen Ayoola, Olawale Oluwaseun
Warees, Toheeb Olamilekan Adeleye, Oladimeji Ayomide Michael,
Olawale Sodiq Olayiwola, Wasiu Muyideen Omotayo, Onabanjo
Wasiu Abolore, Otubanjo Faruq Omotolani, Kazeem Babajide
Remilekun, Mustapha Adewunmi Ayoade, Ganiyu Jamiu Adufe,
Fasasi Iliasi Olanrewaju and Badejo Korede Gbolahan.
The rest are: Obigbesan Abdullahi Ayomide, Ademola Olamilekan
Salami, Adeleke Oluwadamilare Jamiu, Sanni Taiwo Ayomide, Daniel
Olori Oluwasegun, Nofiu Sodiq Rasheed, Akinlagun Oluwatomiwa
Oyindamola, Balogun Ibrahim Olanrewaju, Fatai Usman Ayomide,
Olaringbemi Gbenga Faith, Adebola Ayomikun Adetosoye and
Sedagbande Mautin David
Items recovered from them include: eight exotic cars, phones,
laptops and other electronic gadgets of different brands.
Fifty-one( 51) of the suspects are indicted by forensic
analyses carried out on their devices.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
It will be recalled that two siblings, alongside twenty-four
(24) others, were earlier arrested at Apete area of Ibadan
for suspected cyber – related fraudulent activities.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-two-siblings-53-others-for-suspected-internet-fraud-in-ibadan
**************************************
1 OCT 2022
EFCC Arrests Seven Suspected Internet Fraudsters
In Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested
seven suspected internet fraudsters.
They were arrested on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 at
their hideout in the Life Camp area of Abuja.
They suspects are: Daniel Archibong Akpan, Akunkagha
Obiajulu Alex, Abeyi Oghenenyerhovwo and Edoh-Izegwire
Oghenevovwero. Others are: Etuk Malcolm Essien, Akpan
Iniobong Sunday and Oghenevovwero Abeyi.
Items recovered from them are: mobiles phones and
laptops of various brands.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-seven-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
************************************
30 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests 95 Internet Fraudsters
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested ninety
five(95) suspected internet fraudsters in Warri, Delta State.
They were arrested on Thursday, September 29, 2022, in a sting
operation, at Adesa Ughonton and Jedda axis of Warri, Delta State
for suspected fraudulent internet-related activities.
The suspects are: Idama Fejiro, Peace Wisdom Ede, Akpoyibo Daniel
Akpevwe, Adam Yakubu Ayo, Sultan Akayinode Damilare, Ibrahim Sani,
Karo Matthew Joseph, Idowu Abdul Malik, Bright Omokiniovo Chovwe,
Thankgod Idama Kobiro, Okito Rukevwe Kelvin, Timothy Lucky,
Akpojotor Godstime, Omagbemi Jeffery, Marvis Lucky, Agbodobiri
Sunny, Segun Bakare, Umukoro Christopher, Abomodje Success Erorome,
Irivwieri Scholar, Arisi Oghenero, Akoibe Ovie, Oriareghan Godsent,
Onoja Victory, Emmanuel Anuko, Charles Blessing, Ogodo Mamuzo,
Precious Tobukuma, Ogbeke Forgive and Wisdom Williams.
Others are :Omoru Scott, Omoru Daniel, Benson Michael, Fejiro
Oke, Isreal Paul Afuoh, Stanley Pius Layefa, Jeffery Adapamor,
Francis Anthony, Kenneth Douwere, Kester Godwin, Japhet Nwaobi,
Innocent Ohwofaso, Barry Akpofure, Omosebi Ezekiel Timi, Richard
Ikpomnwosa, Oremegue Success, Kennedy Akhabue, Obematen Michael
Promise, Esivweneta Tejiri, Onorume Harvest, Emmanuel Akpene,
Emmanuel Vouwero, Okudu Goddluck, Victor Godwin, Umukoro Paul,
Boateng Sunday, Money Freedom, Sylvester Kingley, Esivweneta
Frank, Bonny Oghenerume, Osanwoli Ojoeguari, Glory Ukpebitere,
Tonfawey Fidelis Ebimene and Rex Mamus Brume.
The rest are: Osemudiamen Victor, Prince Ali Oghenero, Fedrick
Ashebimoma, Iwhighuavwe Avewerosuo Joshua, Iwhighuavwe Friday,
Stephen Victor, Asulewon Benjamin, Balogun Destiny, Uko Peter
Adoga, Idris Ibrahim, Ikenna Igboke, Egugbo Andrew, Igbekele
Victor Iseoluwa, Joshua Akinkuade, Amos Osega, Otilu Ifeanyi,
Samuel Amiegbe, Kelvin Etonwei Doubrapade, Puri Precious, Awolu
Ibrahim, Andrew Idigo Chukwudi, Efemena Philip Okoloko, Oyakhire
Prosper, Bright Ighorolumuwe, Mienka Ogugu, Aghorunse Sola Prosper,
Momah Shedrach, Dickson Itule, Omoduvie Augustine, Chioma Josphine
Onumonu and Blessing Ojamami.
Items recovered from them are : phones of different brands,
laptops, and fifteen vehicles (15) of different brands.
They will soon be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-95-internet-fraudsters
**************************************
29 SEP 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Seven Years imprisonment
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission , EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of two Internet fraudsters.
The fraudsters: Harmony Enobakhare and Lucky Uhunamure Osamudiamen
were jailed by Justices Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court
Benin City and Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in
Warri, Delta
State.
Enobakhare was jailed on Wednesday, September 28, 2022, after
pleading guilty to one count charge bordering on retention of
N518, 114, 049. 35k (Five Hundred and Eighteen Million One
Hundred and Fourteen Thousand, Forty Nine Naira and Thirty -
Five Kobo) which are proceeds of illegal conducts.
The charge against him reads : that you Harmony Enonakhare
sometimes between 1st August and September 2022 in Edakpa
community, Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of
this honourable court did retain the aggregate sum of Five
Hundred and Eighteen Million, One Hundred and Fourteen
Thousand, Forty - Nine Naira and Thirty - Five Kobo
(N518,114,049.35) only in your Access Bank account number
009778229 knowing that same represent proceeds of your
criminal conduct to wit: Cybercrime and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 17(a) of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission ( Establishment ) Act 2004
and punishable under Section 17(b) of same Act
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge, prompting
prosecution counsel, Ibrahim Mohammed to pray the court
to convict and sentence him accordingly. However, counsel
to the defendant, Pascal Ugbome prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy and consider the remorse of the defendant.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted Enobakhare to two years
imprisonment with an option of N200, 000( Two Hundred
Thousand Naira) as fine.
The judge added that the balances in his Access bank account,
Polaris bank, GTB, UBA and Muual Benefit Micro Finance Bank,
with proceeds of crime recovered in the course of investigation,
be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria through the
EFCC and the accounts permanently closed.
Osamudiamen, on the other hand, was jailed on Tuesday,
September 27, 2022, after pleading guilty to one- count
charge of impersonating foreign nationals with intent
to gain advantage for himself.
The count reads: "that you Lucky Uhunamure Osamudamen
(a.k.a Williams Bradley Pitt and Daniel Craig) on or about
the 2nd day of March 2021 at S & T Barracks, Benin City
within the jurisdiction of this honourable court fraudulently
impersonated Williams Bradley Pitt and Daniel Craig both
white men by using Email address luckjacksonn@gmail.com,
pitt2989@gmail.com and name jackson@gmail.com
williambradleupittoffic@gmail.com and willistonrobert084@gmail.com
to obtain money from one Mikki and sending fictitious document
to our advantage, the pretence you knew to be false and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)(I)(ii) of
the Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention etc) Act 2015 and punishable
under Section 22(2)(b)(IV) of same Act.
He pleaded guilty to the one-count charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, F. Dibang prayed the
court to convict and sentence him accordingly.
Justice Abang convicted and sentenced Osamudiamen to five years
imprisonment, with an option of N500, 000 ( Five Hundred Thousand
Naira)as fine. He also forfeited his phone to the government.
The two convicts began their journey to the Correctional Centre,
when they were arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal Command
of the EFCC, for internet- related offences.
Specifically, they were convicted for retaining fraudulent funds
in their bank accounts and impersonation of foreigners to defraud
their victims.
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-seven-years-imprisonment
****************************************
29 SEP 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster One Year In Lagos
Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos has convicted and sentenced an internet fraudster,
Gafar Olaitan Oyegoke, to one year in prison.
The convict was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday,
September 27, 2022, on two-count charges bordering on possession
of documents containing false pretence.
One of the count reads: "That you, Gafar Olaitan Oyegoke, on
or about 29th April, 2022 at Lagos, within the Ikeja jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with the intent to defraud, had in your
possession a bundle of document containing false pretence in
your text now number, which pretence you knew or ought to know
to be false and committed an offence contrary to Section 320 of
the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge preferred against him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, Emeka Omewa, prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Dada convicted him and sentenced him to one year in
prison, with an option of fine of N50,000( Fifty Thousand Naira).
The convicts journey to the Correctional Centre started, when
he was arrested by operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the
\EFCC, for searching for victims online and sending them a message
of interest on their product lines. He would bargain with them
and ordered them to deliver the products to him.
Upon delivery of the product, he would then send a fake proof
of payment, making the victims believe they have been paid through
service@PayPal.com, which he created.
court-jails-internet-fraudster-one-year-in-lagos-8
**************************************
29 SEP 2021
Three Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms in Makurdi
Justice Abdu Dogo of the Federal High Court sitting in Makurdi,
has convicted and sentenced three internet fraudsters to different
jail terms.
The convicts: Somadina Kingsley Madubuke, Sunday Ogbonna and Bello
Emmanuel Adeoza, were jailed on Wednesday, September 28, 2022.
They were convicted, after pleading guilty to one-count separate
charge, bordering on criminal impersonation and Point of sale, POS,
fraud, upon being arraigned by the Makurdi Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
They pleaded guilty to the charge, when it was read to them
individually.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel: Ramiah Ikhanaede
prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Delivering judgment, Justice Dogo sentenced Somadina to three
years imprisonment or an option of fine of N1 million. Additionally,
he should restitute N1.8 million to his victims through the EFCC.
He also forfeited his phones $800 found in his bank account. The
court also froze all his bank accounts.
Ogbonna was sentenced to one year imprisonment or an option of
fine of N300,000( Three Hundred Thousand Naira). His bank accounts
were frozen by the court, and the standing balance forfeited to
the government.
The judge also convicted and sentenced Emmanuel to one year
imprisonment or a fine of N500,000( Five Hundred Thousand Naira).
His bank accounts were frozen and the standing balance forfeited
to the government.
All the convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre,
when they were arrested by operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command
of the EFCC for impersonating foreigners and defrauding their victims
through false claims.
three-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-makurdi
***************************************
28 SEP 2022
Bawa Charges Youths on Cybercrime
Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, has called on youths
across the country to shun internet fraud and join the
EFCC in combating economic and financial crimes.
He gave this charge on Saturday, September 24, 2022, while
delivering a speech on "Inherent risks on Cyber/Internet fraud"
at the Mountain Of Fire And Miracles Ministries, Dakwo Mega
Region, Abuja.
Bawa, who spoke through Assistant Commander of the EFCC,
ACE Joseph Yetwi, stated that cyber fraud was rampant among
youths within the ages of 14 to 40. He stressed that corrupt
practices have no sacred place, including schools, offices,
governments, courts, churches or mosques.
He gave some references of corrupt figures in the Bible,
pointing out that they never ended well. He, therefore,
urged parents to always conduct due diligence on their
children, by following Proverbs 22: 6, which says, "train
up a child in the way he should go and when he is old,
he will not depart from it"
"Exodus 20:15 also says that “You shall not steal." It is
important to note that all forms of financial crimes are
directly and indirectly theft or stealing. So there are
many more passages of the Bible that emphasized God's
disapproval of financial crimes and corruption. It is
clear that there is no place for a fraudster or corrupt
person in the Kingdom of God, if anyone engages in these
vices, he or she will suffer punishment from God and man"
he said.
Bawa called for collective responsibility of every
stakeholder in tackling economic and financial crimes,
including all law enforcement agencies, judiciary,
religious bodies, non-governmental organizations, NGOs,
and the general public.
The press release contains photos:
bawa-charges-youths-on-cybercrime419 Coalition comment: Count us among those NGOs tackling
West African Advance Fee Fraud (419) criminal operations. In
fact, we've been hard at it for Longer than the entire Nigerian
Government, and for many years Before the EFCC itself even
existed!! Just giving ourselves credit where credit is due :)
Send our Coordinator along his well earned medal for public
service to the Government and People of Nigeria as soon as
you can get around to it, thanks in advance...
*********************************
28 SEP 2022
Kaduna Court Sends Five Internet Fraudsters to Jail
Justices A.A Bello and Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High
Court, sitting in Kaduna, have convicted and sentenced five
internet fraudsters to different terms of imprisonment.
The convicts: Vincent Solomon, Godwin Uchechukwu, Miracle
Festus, Chibueze Michael Joseph and Danjuma Samuel Enoch,
were jailed on Monday, September 26, 2022, after pleading
guilty to one-count separate charge, bordering on internet
fraud, upon their arraignment by the Kaduna Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one count charge reads: "That you, Vincent Solomon, 'M'
sometimes in July, 2022, in Kaduna within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, did attempt to commit an illegal
act by using Austin Sparky Renforth of United States of
America Infantry Marine, a false identity on Instagram
account with the intention of defrauding unsuspecting persons
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 57
of the Penal Code Law, 2017 of Kaduna State and punishable
under Section 309 of the same Law".
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges,
when they were read to each of them separately.
Upon their guilty pleas, prosecution counsels: P.C Onyeneho,
E.K Garba and M. Lawal prayed the court to convict and
sentence them accordingly but defence counsels: Emmanuel
Nwokenekwu, Nazif Shehu, and Chinedu Gwam, Mahe Sani and
I.S. Yahaya prayed for mercy of the court for the defendants,
saying that they are remorseful.
Justice Bello thereafter convicted and sentenced Solomon
to three months imprisonment or a fine of N150,000.00( One
Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only). He also forfeited
the Iphone XR he used to commit the offence to the government.
Festus was convicted and sentenced to three months imprisonment,
with an option of fine of N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand
Naira). He forfeited an Iphone 6s used to commit the offence
to the government.
Justice Bello also convicted and sentenced Uchechukwu to
three months imprisonment or an option of fine of N150,000.00.
Both Joseph and Enoch were convicted and sentenced by Justice
\Khobo. They both got six months imprisonment, with an option
of fine of N150,000 each. They also forfeited phones used
in committing their crimes to the government.
The convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre,
when operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC arrested
them at various locations in Kaduna State, for internet- related
offences. They were subsequently prosecuted and convicted.
kaduna-court-sends-five-internet-fraudsters-to-jail
*************************************
28 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests Two Siblings, 24 Others for Internet Fraud
in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested two siblings:
Lateef Afeez Abiodun and Lateef Abdullahi Olalekan alongside
twenty-four others, for suspected internet- related fraudulent
activities in Ibadan, Oyo State.
They were arrested Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at Apete area
of Ibadan based on actionable intelligence worked upon by the
Commission.
The other suspects are: Awotunde Joseph Sunday, Ojekunle Ifakorede
Apesinola, Oladepo Kayode Samuel, Emmanuel Michael Blessing, Shittu
Hassan Taiwo, Olubanji Michael Remilekan, Bakari Ibrahim Oluwatosin,
Nafiu Hassan Ayomide, Shittu Toheeb Ife, Kehinde Abiodun, Ibikunle
Lolade Tanimola, Ahmad Sodiq Adekola, Joshua Sowemimo, Adeleke
Adegoke Yusuf and Ahmad Ridwan Adeniyi.
Others are Lawal Ayomide Alani, Olayiwola David Olateju, Quincy
Okonma, Omotayo Bright Happiness, Okunlaja Joshua Opeyemi, Olasantan
Adewola Seyifunmi, John Uroko Amuta, Olaoye Ifasola Ifasegun and
Ayomide Adeleke Olamilekan.
Items recovered from the suspects include a car, laptops, and
exotic phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are
concluded.
efcc-arrests-two-siblings-24-others-for-internet-fraud-in-ibadan
***********************************
27 SEP 2022
Court Jails Five Internet Fraudsters in Ilorin
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting
in Ilorin, has convicted and sentenced five internet
fraudsters to different terms of imprisonment.
The convicts are: Jacob Emmanuel, Usman Teminu, Akerele
Olugbenga, Abdulrazaq Ikoojo Ahmed and Idemudia Ohyakilome
Christian.
They were jailed on Monday, September 26, 2022, after
pleading guilty to separate count charges, bordering on
cybercrime and possession of fraudulent funds.
Count two of the charge against Emmanuel reads:
"That you Jacob Emmanuel sometime in February, 2022 at
Lokoja within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court
fraudulently impersonated one Percy Sliver with intention
to obtain N450,000.00 (Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira) which you did obtain from Ward Hill and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (ii)
of the Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention) Act, 2015 and
punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act."
Count two of the charge against Teminu reads:
“That you, USMAN TENIMU sometime in June, 2022 at Ilorin,
within the judicial division of the Federal High Court, was
found to have retained the control of the gross sum of
N1,655,000 (One Million, Six Hundred and Fifty Five Thousand
Naira) in your First Bank Plc account number 3123320044, being
sum paid to you which you knew to be proceeds of criminal conduct
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 17 (a) and (b) of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission (Establishment) Act 2004."
They all pleaded guilty to the charges when they were read
to them individually.
Following their pleas , prosecution counsel, Andrew Akoja,
prayed the court to convict the defendants as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Sani convicted and sentenced Emmanuel
to three years imprisonment on counts one and two or an option
of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on each
count. The phones he used to commit the crime were forfeited
o the Federal Government.
Teminu bagged three years imprisonment on each of the three
counts for which he was prosecuted. He was, however, given an
option of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only)
on count one. Count two carried an option of fine of N1,655,000
(One Million, Six Hundred and Fifty-Five Thousand Naira Only)
while count three was with a fine of N304,000 (Three Hundred
and Four Thousand Naira Only). The iPhone 13 pro max and iPhone
6 he used for the commission of the crime were forfeited to
the Federal Government.
The court sent Olugbenga to a jail term of three years each
on the four counts for which he was prosecuted. He got an option
of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on count
one, N223,500 (Two Hundred and Twenty-Three Thousand, Five Hundred
Naira Only) on count two, N504,650 (Five Hundred and Four Thousand,
Six Hundred and Fifty Naira Only) on count three while count four
had an option of fine of N225,200 (Two Hundred and Twenty-Five
Thousand, Two Hundred Naira Only). In addition, the judge ordered
that his two phones which were used to commit the crime be forfeited
to the Federal Government.
In a similar vein, Justice Sani convicted and sentenced Ahmed to
three years imprisonment, on the three counts for which he was
prosecuted. He was, however, given an option of fine of N100,000
(One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on count one, , N2,418,500.62
(Two Million, Four Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, Five Hundred
Naira, Sixty-Two Kobo) on count two and N1,010,700.06 (One Million,
Ten Thousand, Seven Hundred Naira and Six Kobo) on three. The court
ordered that his iPhone 13, iPhone x and MacBook laptop be forfeited
to the Federal Government.
Christian bagged three years imprisonment each on counts one and
two, with an option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira
Only) on count one and N79,000 (Seventy-Nine Thousand Naira Only)
on count two.
All the convicts became inmates owing to their arrest by operatives
of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC, for internet-related fraud
and possession of fraudulent funds. They were prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains photos of all five 419ers:
court-jails-five-internet-fraudsters-in-ilorin
**********************************
27 SEP 2022
Eight Internet Fraudsters Bag 16 Years Jail Terms in Benin
Justices Efe Ikponwonba and M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court,
sitting in Benin-City, have convicted and sentenced eight internet
fraudsters to sixteen ( 16) years imprisonment.
They were convicted on Monday, September 26, 2022 and Tuesday,
September 27, 2022, after pleading guilty to one-count separate
charge, bordering on possession of documents containing false
pretence, fraudulent misrepresentation and impersonation.
The convicts are: Nosa Osasuyi, Osayande Prosper, Egwabor Jim
Uloma, Enofe Macaulay, Ige Damilola Oluwaseun, Omotehinse Joshua
Oriade, Rawlings Nnaomi Nwabunwanne and Temitayo Temenu Temitope.
While Justice Ikpomwonba convicted Osasuyi, Prosper and Uloma,
Nwabunwanne and Temitope, Macaulay, Oluwaseun and Oriade were
convicted by Justice Itsueli.
The charge against Osasuyi reads : "that.you Nosa Osasuyi (a.ka.
Aaron Tveit, Carles Willcox and Shawn Ashmore) on or about the
24th day of August 2022 at Agbor by-pass, Benin City, Edo State
did with intent to defraud, fraudulently impersonated Aaron Tveit,
Charles Willcox and Shawn Ashmore, all while men, by sending
fictitious documents and using the following Instagram account
charleswillcoxx@gmail.com; Aarontveit39@gmail; shawnashmore@gmail.com;
with intent to obtain money from prospective victims to your advantage
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 48 Laws of defunct Benin State.of Nigeria ( as applicable
in Edo State) 1976 and punishable under the same law".
Upon arraignment, they all pleaded guilty to their respective
charges, when they were read to them.
Based on their pleas, prosecution counsels: I. K. Agwai, I.M
Elodi and K.Y Bello prayed the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly. However, counsel to the defendants, Pascal
Ugbome prayed the court to temper justice with mercy as the
defendants have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikpomwonba, thereafter, convicted and sentenced Osasuyi
and Uloma to two years imprisonment each, with an option of fine
of Two Hundred Thousand Naira ( N200, 000) each, while Prosper
bagged one year imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira. The judge also convicted and sentenced Nwabunwanne and
Temitope to two years imprisonment each, with an option of fine
of one Hundred Thousand Naira ( N100, 000).
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Macaulay and Oluwaseun
to two years imprisonment each or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira and One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira respectively. Oriade
bagged three years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira
The convicts forfeited Toyota Camry and Lexus ES350 cars, as well
as a Mercedes Benz GLK 350 Sports Utility Vehicle to the Federal
government. Others are: phones and two laptops.
The court also ordered the forfeiture of the balance found in
Osasuyi account with Union Bank, United Bank for Africa, UBA
and Keystone Bank to the Federal Government while the accounts
are to be closed permanently.
All the convicts were arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal
Command of the EFCC, in connection with internet-related offences.
They were charged to court and convicted, leading them on a journey
to the Correctional Centre.
The press release contains photos all eight 419ers:
eight-internet-fraudsters-bag-16-years-jail-terms-in-benin
***************************************
26 SEP 2022
Oyo Courts Send 66 Internet Fraudsters to Jail
An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has convicted and
sentenced sixty-six, 66, internet fraudsters to various jail
terms, ranging from two weeks, four months, and six months
of community service to ten months imprisonment.
The convicts were prosecuted by the Ibadan Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and
arraigned before Justices Olusola Adetujoye, Bayo Taiwo
and Ladiran Akintola on separate one- count charge, bordering
on cyber crimes, between Monday, September 5, 2022 and Wednesday,
September 21, 2022.
The convicts are: Lawal Ismaila Adebola, Dazumi Azeez Jayeola,
Morakinyo Abiodun Michael, Kehinde Samuel Olatunbosun, Yusuf
Olawale Raji, Abass Akintayo Waliu, Kolawole Blessing Oluwafemi,
Ajibade Habib Olakunle, Adedun Olajide Temidire, Dapo Ajayi
Temitope Faith, Lamidi Olumide Samuel, Patrick Simon Olaide,
Opeyemi Nurudeen, Obaloluwa Enoch Bolaji, Oladimeji Olamide
Abdulrahan, Damilola Mubarak Muritala, Adedayo Wahab Abdullahi,
Olotu Oluwadamilola Ayomikun, Aderibigbe Ibrahim Olamilekan,
Sekoni Oluwatimilehin James, Dazumi Abdulrazak, Salami Ayo
Wisdom and Ifeoluwa Joseph Olabiyi.
Others are Mubarak Salaudeen Opeyemi, Toriola Samuel Oluwadamilola,
Abisoye Israel Olamilekan, Adebayo Babatunde Teslim, Onipede
Damilola, Oladotun Tijani Kunle, Adeshina Opeyemi Akanni, Eniola
Johnson Olorunsola, Adebowale Samuel Amusan, Ayinde Babalola Quadri,
Obioma Honour Nmaduabuchi, Afolabi Pelumi Tomiwa, Salau Opeyemi
Saheed, Adekunle Hammed, Abioye Oluwatobiloba Alex, Ajadi Hezekiah
Oluwatobi, Kayode Donald Adubu, Olamilekan Gabriel Ebedi, Adediran
Qudus Wale, Adams Ojo Segun, Ogundayo Usman Oladayo, Olamide Yusuf
Ishola, Kolawole Fuad Abiodun, Adekoya Tobiloba, Giwa Babatunde
David, Abdulfatahi Dolapo Oderinde and Akinwale Israel Bunmi.
The rest of the convicts are: Alex Okhiria Chibueze, Gabriel
Ikyeleve, Paul Uche Obinna, Udeh Emeka Moses, Alase Ayodele Philip,
Afeez Sode Gbolahan, Abayomi Babatunde Adejuyigbe, Haruna Adedoyin
Kayode, Adejuyigbe Oluwatobiloba Joshua, Gbadamosi Samson Iyanu,
Olatunbosun Mojeeb Olanrewaju, Oduwaye Oluwale Kelvin, Adesokan
Afeez Afolabi, Emmanuel Oluwatobi Ajala, Olamilekan Michael Ayegbusi
and Adurota Emmanuel Oluwatosin.
They all pleaded "guilty" to the charges when they were read to them
individually.
Consequently, prosecution counsels, Oyelakin Oyediran, Chidebere Okoli,
Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Modupe Akunkoye, Mohammed Galadanchi, Mabas Mabur,
Abdulrasheed Suleman and Samsudeen Bashir , prayed the court to convict
and sentence them accordingly.
The courts convicted and sentenced the defendants to various jail terms,
some two weeks, others four months, six months of community service,
and some to ten months imprisonment. The courts also ordered that they
restitute their various victims and forfeit all items recovered from
them to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
All the convicts began their journey to the Correctional Centre when
they were arrested by operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the
EFCC, for diverse internet-related offences. They were subsequently
prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains small photos of all the 419ers:
oyo-courts-send-66-internet-fraudsters-to-jail
******************************************
23 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests 29 Suspected Internet Fraudsters In Owerri
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested twenty-nine
(29) suspected internet fraudsters in Owerri, Imo state.
The suspects, who allegedly specialized in defrauding foreigners
through the internet, were arrested on Friday, September 23, 2022,
following actionable intelligence about their suspected involvement
in internet- related offences.
They are: Ike Frank Chikezie, Chukwuebuka Ohaeri Favour, David
Ahams Chinyereugo, Desmond Chukwuma Ifechukwu, Chimereuche Chinedu,
Mbah Chinemerem Kenneth, Prince Nyama Chidebere, Chinemerem Emmanuel
Marvelous, Nwaike Obioma John.F, Prince Chukwuemeka, John Kennedy
Wike, Ohaeri Sixtus Chibuzopr, Ahamefula Wisdon Metuobi, Sunday
Uche Jide and Emmanuel Wike Jude.
Others are: Dike Obinna Collins, Nwanegbo Ifeanyi Chukwu, Ikechukwu
Dirichukwu, Obiora Chinaza Valentine, Francis Uwaene Nnadozie, Ihebom
Austine Chukwuendu, Bright Nyama, Stanley Nwaikaye Chibueze, Chibueze
Okerie Ezuike, Felix Chinemerem Emem, Clinton Onyejebu, Paschal Anagor
Tobechukwu, Diamond Ugochukwu and David Chidera.
Items recovered from them at the point of arrest include: One Lexus
ES300 car, several phones and laptops of different brands.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
efcc-arrests-29-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-owerri
****************************************
22 SEP 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Three Months In Makurdi
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on September 21, 2022 secured the conviction
and sentencing of Terhile John Ushir to three months imprisonment
He was jailed by Justice N. I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court,
Lafia, Nasarawa State, on one-count charge for his involvement
in internet fraud.
The one-count charge reads:
"That you, Terhile John Ushir sometime in October, 2021 in Makurdi,
Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently
impersonated one Ji-Hoon Benjamin, a Yemen national, with intent to
gain advantage to yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22(2)(b) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention Etc)
Act, 2015 and punishable under the same Section 22(2)(iv) of the Act".
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Upon his plea, prosecution counsel, George Chai-Yakua reviewed the
facts of the case and prayed the court to convict and sentence Ushir
as charged.
Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced him to three months
imprisonment. She further ordered the convict to forfeit his
laptop to the government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-three-months-in-makurdi
************************************
22 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests Two Suspected Internet Fraudsters In Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, September
21, 2022, arrested two suspected internet fraudsters, Agbebaku
Newton and Enofe Destiny, on Waterside Road, Eti-Osa, Lekki,
Lagos State.
The suspects were arrested, following credible intelligence
available to the Commission on their alleged involvement in
computer-related fraud.
At the point of arrest, several models of vehicles, phones, l
aptops and a gold necklace were recovered from them.
The suspects will soon be charged to court.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-two-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
*************************************
21 SEP 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Five Years in Kaduna
Justice Nasiru.U. Sadiq of the Kaduna State High Court has
convicted and sentenced Monday Yakubu(a.k.a Tucka James) to
five years imprisonment for cheating by impersonation.
He was jailed on Tuesday, September 21, 2022 after pleading
guilty to one- count amended charge, upon his arraignment by
the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
The one-count amended charge reads: "That you, Monday Yakubu,
Male, sometimes in February, 2022, in Kaduna, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, impersonated one Tucka James, a citizen of
United States of America on Instagram and in such false identity
engaged Dorothy Jackson on a romantic relationship and obtained the
sum of $340 USD(Three Hundred and Forty United States of America
Dollars) worth of gift cards, and you thereby committed cheating
by impersonation, an offence contrary to Section 308 of the Penal
Code Law, 2017 of Kaduna State and punishable under Section 309 of
the same Law."
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Upon his plea of guilt, prosecution counsel, Matiyak .Y. John, prayed
the court to convict the defendant accordingly while defence counsel,
H.U. Obimba urged the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendant
is remorseful.
Justice Sadiq thereafter convicted and sentenced Yakubu to five
years imprisonment, with an option of fine of the sum of N100,000.00
(One Hundred Thousand Naira). He also forfeited his Iphone 11 to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-five-years-in-kaduna
**********************************
20 SEP 2022
EFCC Arraigns Suspected Fraudster in Asaba
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 arranged Promise
Ogumu (a.k.a James Simpson, Brain Walker) before Justice F.A.
Olubanjo of the Federal High Court sitting in Asaba, Delta State.
Ogumu was arraigned on six -count charges, bordering on fraudulent
impersonation, obtaining by false pretence and possession of fraudulent
documents . He is alleged to have sometime in 2019 and 202 obtained
an aggregate sum of Thirty Seven Thousand Three Hundred and Fifty
Dollars ( $37, 350) under false pretence of a lottery investment.
One of the counts reads: "that you Promise Ogumu on or about 8th
February, 2019 in Delta State within the jurisdiction of this
honourable court did with intent to defraud obtained the sum of
$12,600 from John Dawson under the false pretence of a lottery
investment, the pretence you knew to be false and therefore
committed an offence contrary to section (1)(a) of the Advance
Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and Punishable
under section 1 (3) of same Act."
Another count reads: "that you Promise Ogumu on or about 8th
July 2019 in Delta State within the jurisdiction of this honourable
court with intent to defraud obtained the sum of $9000 from Bao
Tran Hung under the false pretence of a lottery investment, the
pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other
Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3)
of same Act."
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was
read to him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel , I.K Agwai prayed
the court for a trial date and the remand of the defendant at
a Correctional Facility.
Justice Olubanjo granted the defendant bail in the sum of Five
Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000), with one surety. The surety
must possess a landed property within the jurisdiction of the
court. The defence counsel is to undertake in writing to produce
the defendant in court when needed
The matter was adjourned to November 14 and 15, 2022 for hearing.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-suspected-fraudster-in-asaba
*************************************
20 SEP 2022
Kaduna Court Sends Five Fraudsters to Jail
Justice Nasiru.U. Sadiq of the Kaduna State High Court has
convicted and sentenced five internet fraudsters to various
terms of imprisonment for cheating by impersonation.
The fraudsters: Ephraim Andrew Maude(a.k.a Chris Hugo), Genesis
Daniel (a.k.a Tyler Wine), Henriatta Kantona, George Funom Khah
and Haruna Tisan Jeremiah, were jailed on Monday, September 19,
2022 after pleading guilty to one- count separate charge,
bordering on internet fraud and cheating by impersonation,
upon their arraignment by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one -count charge reads: "That you, Ephraim Andrew Maude
(a.k.a Chris Hugo), sometime in July, 2022 at Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, committed an offence,
to wit; falsely presented yourself as Chris Hugo, and in that
assumed character cheated one Donald of the total sum of $50.00
(Fifty US Dollars) via 'silverdadies app' (a social media
application and gay site) and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law of
2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law."
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges, when
it was read to them individually.
Upon their plea of guilty, prosecution counsels: Matiyak Y.
John and P.C Onyeneho prayed the court to convict them
accordingly but defense counsels: Luqman Shittu, Abu Usman.
A, Abdulsalam Nurudeen and Abubakar .A. Muhammad, prayed for
mercy of the court for the defendants, saying that they are
remorseful.
Justice Sadiq thereafter convicted and sentenced Maude to
three years imprisonment, with an option of fine of One Hundred
Thousand Naira(N100,000.00). He also forfeited an Apple Iphone
7 plus used in carrying out the crime while the sum of $50.00
returned by the defendant is forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The judge convicted and sentenced Daniel to three months
imprisonment or pay a fine of N100,000.00( One Hundred Thousand
Naira). He forfeited an S10 LTE mobile phone. Kantona bagged
three years imprisonment, with an option of fine of N150,000.00
( One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) and forfeited the Apple
Iphone XS Max and Infinix Hot 9 phones used to carry out the
offence to the government.
Both Khah and Jeremiah were convicted and sentenced to three
months imprisonment each. While Khah was given an option to pay
a fine of N150,000.00, Jeremiah had an option of N100, 000.
Both forfeited their phones to the government, while Jeremiah
restituted Eighty United States Dollars ($80) to his victim.
The convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre
when they were arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command
of the EFCC, for internet-related offences. They were charged to
court and convicted.
The press release contains a small photo of each 419er:
kaduna-court-sends-five-fraudsters-to-jail
****************************************
19 SEP 2022
Five Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms in Makurdi
Justices Emeka Nwite and A. R. Mohammed of the Federal High
Court sitting in Abuja, have convicted and sentenced five
internet fraudsters to different jail terms.
The convicts: Adakole Williams Joseph, Amuta Michael Ochube,
Achir David Teryima, Dahiru Umar Usman and Onah Victor Onah,
were jailed on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 13 and 14,
2022 respectively. While Joseph, Ochube, Teryima and Usman
were convicted by Justice Nwite, Onah was jailed by Justice
Mohammed.
They were convicted, after pleading guilty to one-count
separate charge bordering on criminal impersonation and Point
of sale, POS, fraud, upon being arraigned by the Makurdi Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Adakole Williams Joseph count charge reads:
"That you Adakole Williams Joseph sometime in 2022 within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud
advertised to the public on your Instagram account named Jay-
Tech that I got my account recovered successfully through the
help of JAY-TECH on Instagram and defrauded unsuspecting persons,
a message which materially misrepresented facts and caused the
recipients a cumulative loss of N2, 197, 970.82k (Two Million,
One Hundred and Ninety Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Seventy
Naira Eighty Two Kobo) and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Section 14(2) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition,
Prevention Etc) Act, 2015".
They all pleaded guilty to the charge, when it was read to
them individually.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsels: Ramiah Ikhanaede
and M. Yusuf, prayed the court to convict and sentence them
accordingly.
Delivering judgment, Justice Nwite sentenced Joseph to two
years imprisonment, with an option of fine of N2,000, 000
( Two Million Naira only). Teryima was sentenced to one year
imprisonment with an option of fine of N250,000( Two Hundred
and Fifty Thousand Naira), while Ochube and Usman were
sentenced to one year imprisonment each, with an option of
fine of N1,000,000( One Million Naira).
Furthermore, Justice Mohammed sentenced Onah to one year
imprisonment with an option of fine of N300,000( Three
Hundred Thousand Naira).
Also, the court ordered that the convicts restitute their
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the
Federal Government of Nigeria. They started their journey
to the Correctional Centre when they were arrested by operatives
of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the EFCC for impersonating
foreigners and defrauding their victims through false claims.
five-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-makurdi
*********************************
16 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests Nine Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested nine suspected
internet fraudsters.
They were arrested on Friday, September 16, 2022 at the
Transekulu and Monarch areas of Enugu, Enugu State.
The suspects are: Chukwu Chidiebube Emmanuel, Ebuka Owoh
Bonaventure, Stephen Obinna Chukwu, Victor Chimere Opuniju,
Justice Ifeanyichukwu Anunobi, Ugwumba Eloka Charles, Okeke
ifeanyi Victor, Nduka Ononiwu and Obasi Chisom.
Investigations showed that the suspects always impersonate
foreigners to defraud their victims.
Items recovered from them include two vehicles, 26 mobile
phones and six laptops.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-nine-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
***************************************
16 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests Siblings, 14 others for Suspected
Internet Fraud in Ilorin
Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic
And Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested sixteen
persons over an alleged case of cybercrime and possession
of fraudulent funds in Ilorin.
They were arrested on Thursday, September 15, 2022 following
credible intelligence worked upon by the Commission.
The suspects, including two siblings: Ahmed Ismail and Toheeb
Ismail, are: Suleiman Abduqudrib Salati, Nurudeen Ibrahim,
Boluwasefe Oyinloye, Bashir Azeez, Abduquodri Ibrahim, Raji R
oqeeb, Tobiloba Raihan, Busari Mohammed.
Others are: Olaoye Kolade, Bello Muhammed, Onime Bright,
Adebayo Bolaji, Abdulqudus Zakariya and Adeleke Hassan.
Items recovered from them include eight exotic cars, phones
and laptops
The suspects will soon be charged to court as soon as
investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-siblings-14-others-for-suspected-internet-fraud-in-ilorin
***************************************
15 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests "Driver" For Alleged $17.5m Advance Fee Fraud
In Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested a suspected
fraudster, Olabanji Aluko, for an alleged $17.5m advance
fee fraud.
Aluko, who claimed to be a driver, was arrested on Wednesday,
September 8, 2022, at a popular eatery in Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos,
where he had arranged a meeting with a petitioner, Col. Remi
Abdulrahman Adeyemo( retd.).
Adeyemo, in his statement to the EFCC, claimed that he received
a phone call from a man, simply identified as Ojo, who claimed
to have known him some years back. Ojo, according to him, claimed
that his son had initiated a divorce process in the United States
of America, USA, and wanted to sell his properties to avoid losing
them to his wife in the end.
He further alleged that Ojo requested his assistance regarding
receiving the said sum, being proceeds of the sale of his son's
properties in the US, allegedly assuring him that the money would
be shipped from the US, through a company, Loomis International,
New York, and that a code would be sent to him, which he would
present before he could take possession of the said sum.
Adeyemo also claimed to have received another call, where he
was told that he would have to pay the sum of $5,700, being
the cost of local handling charges, in order to receive the
money. Suspecting that Ojo was up to some foul play, he reported
the case to the EFCC.
The EFCC, working on the intelligence, swung into action, which
resulted in the arrest of the suspect while he was about to hand
over the fake bills to the tune of $17.5m to the petitioner.
The suspect will soon be charged to court.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-driver-for-alleged-17-5m-advance-fee-fraud-in-lagos
****************************************
14 SEP 2022
Edo Court Jails Two Fraudsters Six Years
Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court, sitting in Benin-
City, on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 convicted and sentenced
Okungbowa Edosa Emmanuel and Erhabor Osaikhuwuomwan to six
years imprisonment.
The duo were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a separate
one-count charge, bordering on retention of proceeds of criminal
conduct and fraudulent impersonation.
The charge against Emmanuel reads: that you Okungbowa Edosa
Emmanuel sometimes between 16th February, 2018 to 16 th May
2022 in Benin City , Edo State within the jurisdiction of
this honourable court, did retain the aggregate sum of Five
Hundred and Sixty Five Million, Five Hundred and Fifty Four
Thousand, Fifty Nine Naira, Eleven kobo (565, 544,059.11 )
only in your UBA account No:2105913681 knowing that same
represent proceeds of criminal conduct to wit: contrary to
Section 17(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
(Establishment ) Act 2004 and punishable under Section(17(b)
of same Act.
The charge against Osaikhuwuomwan reads: that you Erhabor
Osaikhuwuomwan ( a.k.a Trevor Donovan ) on or about the 24th
August 2022 at Agbor by pass, Benin City, Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this honourable court did with intent
to defraud, fraudulently impersonated one Trevor.Donovan,
a white man and thereby committed an offence contrary to
section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel
State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State.) 1976 and
punishable under same Law
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge,
prompting the prosecution counsel: Ibrahim Mohammed, to pray
the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However,
defence counsel, Pascal Ugbome prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendants were first- time offenders.
Justice Itsuele convicted and sentenced Emmanuel to three
years imprisonment, with an option of fine of Two Hundred
Thousand Naira( N200, 000) while Osaikhuomwan also bagged
three years imprisonment with an option of fine of Three
Hundred Thousand Naira( N300,000).
The judge ordered that one Mercedes Benz CLA 250 Sports
Utility Vehicle, SUV, balances in Access Bank, WEMA Bank,
Zenith Bank and GTB accounts belonging to Osaikhuwuomwan
be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Emmanuel forfeited to the Federal Government a Lexus RX 350
SUV, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Venza, Toyota Camry, Lexus IS 25
cars and an aggregate sum total of N 251,750.34( Two Hundred
and Fifty One Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty Naira, Thirty
Four kobo) being money found in UBA, Sterling Bank and Guaranty
Trust Bank. The judge also ordered that laptops and phones
recovered from the defendants, being proceeds of crime, be
forfeited to the government.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when
operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC arrested them
for impersonation and criminal conducts. Investigations showed
that, Emmanuel had sometime between 2018 and 2022 retained the
aggregate sum of N565,544,059,1) been proceeds of crime while
Osaikhuwuomwan impersonated one Trevor Donovan, a white man.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
edo-court-jails-two-fraudsters-six-years
***************************************
13 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests 22 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Uyo
Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 22 suspected
internet fraudsters within Akwa Ibom State.
They were arrested in a sting operation on Tuesday, September
13, 2022.
The all-male suspects, whose ages range between 18 to 24 years,
were arrested at their various hideouts in Uyo and Ikot Ekpene
areas of the State, following verified intelligence regarding
their nefarious activities.
Items recovered from the suspects include, a silver -coloured
Toyota Corolla car, as well as various brands of sophisticated
mobile phones and laptops.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
efcc-arrests-22-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-uyo
****************************************
13 SEP 2022
Ilorin Court Jails Musician, Two Others,
20 Years for Cybercrime
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin,
has convicted and sentenced a Lokoja- born musician, Onojah Emmanuel
Samuel, and two others to twenty years imprisonment for offences
bordering on cybercrime.
Samuel was convicted on Monday, September 12, 2022 alongside Victor
Atsumbe Kadiyamo and Jejelowo Segun, after pleading guilty to separate
count charges, bordering on internet fraud. They were arraigned by the
Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC.
The charge against Samuel reads:
"That you, Onojah Emmanuel Samuel, sometime in May, 2022 at Lokoja,
Kogi State within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court fraudulently
impersonated one Richard Philips via your Instagram account linked to
your gmail account: richardphilips6211@gmail.com with intent to obtain
money from one Erika which you did obtain the sum of Eighty Pounds worth
gift cards and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2)
(ii) of Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention) Act, 2015 and punishable
under Section 22(2)(b)(iv) of the same Act."
Following their pleas, counsel to EFCC, Andrew Akoja reviewed the facts
of the cases and prayed the judge to convict and sentence them accordingly.
In his judgment, Justice Sani convicted and sentenced Samuel to three
years imprisonment on counts one and two, with an option of N100,000
(One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on each count. The court ordered
that the phone used by the convict to commit the crime be forfeited
to the Federal Government.
Kadiyamo was also convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment
on counts one, two and three, with options of fine of N100,000 (One
Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on counts one and two, while count three
carried an option of fine of N54,194,680.00 (Fifty Four Million, One
Hundred and Ninety Four Thousand, Six Hundred and Eighty Naira Only).
In addition, the convict forfeited his phone and one Lexus car which
he purchased with the proceeds of his unlawful activities to the
government.
In the same vein, Segun was convicted and sentenced to five years
imprisonment with an option of fine of N500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand
Naira Only). The judge, in addition, ordered the forfeiture of his
Toyota Matrix car and phone to the Government.
The convicts began their journey to the Correctional Centre, when
they were arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the
EFCC for internet-related offences. Further investigations linked
them with impersonation of foreigners. They defrauded both local
and foreign victims in the process.
ilorin-court-jails-musician-two-others-20-years-for-cybercrime
***********************************
12 SEP 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Five Years in Kaduna
Justice Nasiru.U. Sadiq of the Kaduna State High Court, sitting
in Kaduna, has convicted and sentenced two internet fraudsters
to five years, six months imprisonment for internet- related
offences and cheating.
The fraudsters: Peter Uzorchukwu Sharon( a.k.a Drew Mason) and
Peter Prince John, were jailed on Monday, September 12, 2022
after pleading guilty to one- count separate charge, bordering
on internet fraud and cheating by impersonation, upon their
arraignment by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one count charge reads: "That you, Peter Uzorchukwu Sharon
(a.ka.a Drew Mason) (m), between January and August, 2022, at
Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, cheated
one Riphylla Diengdoh (an Indian) of the total sum of 56,000.00
( Fifty-Six Thousand Indian Rupees) only when you pretended to
be Drew Mason; a white man from United Kingdom and an Account
Manager for Cindix.io firm on several online social media
applications, which you knew to be false and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna
State Penal Code Law of 2017 and punishable under Section 309
of the same law.
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges
when it was read to each one of them separately.
Upon their "guilty" plea, prosecution counsels: M.E. Eimonye
and Matiyak .Y. John prayed the court to convict them accordingly.
Justice Sadiq thereafter convicted and sentenced Uzorchukwu to
five (5)years imprisonment, with an option of fine of N150,000.00
(One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira). He forfeited an Apple
Iphone 13 Pro, used to commit the offence to the Federal
Government of Nigeria. The sum of N300,000.00(three Hundred
Thousand Naira) returned by the defendant as restitution was
also forfeited to the government.
The judge equally convicted and sentenced John to six (6)months
imprisonment, with an option of fine of One Hundred and Fifty
Thousand Naira (150,000.00). He also forfeited Iphone 6S to the
government.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre began when they
were arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC
for internet- related offences. They were particularly found to be
impersonating foreigners, and in the process, defrauded many local
and foreign victims. They were charged to court and convicted.
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-five-years-in-kaduna
**************************************
9 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests Seven for Suspected Internet Fraud in Benin
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Benin Zonal Command, on Friday September 9, 2022 arrested
seven suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.
The suspects were arrested at their hideouts, following actionable
intelligence about their alleged involvement in internet- related
fraud.
The suspects are Akele Aisosa, Idemudia Lawson Osarodion, Daniel
Chidube Emeka and Ekoh Godswill.
Others areJunior Osagie, Idemudia Destiny Eghosa and Osaigbovo
Lawrence.
Items recovered at the point of arrest include: three Mercedes
Benz GLK 350; one Lexus RX 350; one Mercedes Benz C400 AMG and
different brands of phone.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
efcc-arrests-seven-for-suspected-internet-fraud-in-benin
****************************************
9 SEP 2022
Two Siblings, One Other, in Jail for Cybercrime in Ilorin
Justices Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court, Ilorin
and Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin
have convicted two siblings - Shekoni Kayode Taofeek and Shekoni
Habeeb Damilare, alongside Adegbe Thankgod, for offences bordering
on cybercrime and retention of proceeds of unlawful activities.
They were convicted on Thursday, September 8, 2022 after pleading
guilty to two count-charges bordering on retention of proceeds of
unlawful activities, based on their arraignment by the Ilorin Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
While Taofeek and Damilare were convicted by Justice Yusuf,
Thankgod was jailed by Justice Sani.
Count two of the charges against Taofeek reads:
"That you, Shekoni Kayode Taofeek sometime between 13th January,
2022 and 22nd August, 2022 at Ilorin, within the judicial division
of the High Court, did knowingly had under your control, the gross
sum of N14,606,100 (Fourteen Million, Six Hundred and Six Thousand,
One Hundred Naira Only) being part of the gross sum of N54,194,680.00
(Fifty Four Million, One Hundred and Ninety Four Thousand, Six Hundred
and Eighty Naira Only) deposited in your Sterling Bank account number
0058929473 which is reasonably suspected to be unlawfully obtained
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 319(a) of the penal code"
Count one of the charges against Damilare reads:
"That you, Shekoni Habeeb Damilare between 30th March, 2022 to 23rd
August, 2022 at Ilorin, Kwara State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, did knowingly had under your control, the gross
sum of N2,526,144.00 (Two Million, Five Hundred and Twenty Six T
housand, One Hundred and Forty Four Naira Only) in your account number
2136057626 with the name: Shekoni Habeeb Damilare domiciled with the
United Bank of Africa Plc which you knew to be proceeds of criminal
conduct and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 319(a) of the Penal Code".
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges when
they were read to them.
Upon their pleas, counsels to the EFCC, Innocent Mbachie and Aliyu
Adebayo, reviewed the facts of the cases and prayed the court to
convict them accordingly.
Justice Yusuf, thereafter, convicted and sentenced Taofeek and
Damilare to six months imprisonment each. While Taofeek's sentence
was without an option of fine, Damilare was given an option of fine
of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only).
Justice Sani also convicted and sentenced Thankgod to three years
imprisonment on each of the two-count charges of cybercrime levelled
against him by the EFCC.
The judge gave the convict an option of fine of N300,000 (Three
Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on count one, while no fine was awarded
on count two. In addition, the judge ordered the forfeiture of a
landed property, one Toyota Camry car, an iphone 13 and Samsung
phone used by the convict to commit the crime to the Federal
Government.
The convicts were arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Command of
the EFCC for internet-related offences. Further investigations showed
that Taofeek had the sum of N14, 606,100 in his bank account which
he could not account for Damilare also had the sum of N2,526,144.00
in his account, which he could not justify. They were prosecuted
and convicted.
two-siblings-one-other-in-jail-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
************************************
8 SEP 2022
Six Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, September 7, 2022 secured the
conviction and sentencing of six internet fraudsters.
They were sentenced to various jail terms.
They convicts are: Victor Moses Agbenyo Akeji, Ugbede Yakubu,
Julius Omowale Ayodele, Emmanuel Isaac, Adedokun Adebukola and
Mojereola Toheeb.
While Akeji, Yakubu and Ayodele and Isaac were convicted by
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court, the duo of
Adebukola and Toheeb were jailed by Justice Adebayo Yusuf of
the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin.
Count two of the charges against Akeji reads:
"That you, Moses Agbenyo Akeji, between the month of April
2021 to December 2021, in Lokoja, within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court did retain the control of the sum of
N1,600,500 (One Million, Six Hundred Thousand, Five Hundred
Naira Only) in your Bank Account Number 2082099701, with the
Name, Moses Agbenyo Akeji domiciled with UBA plc, which you
knew to be proceed of criminal conduct and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 17 (a)
and (b) of the Economic and Financial Crimes (Establishment)
Act, 2004."
All the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges
when they were read to them.
Following their pleas, Prosecution Counsels: Innocent Mbachie,
Aliyu Adebayo and Andrew Akoja prayed the Justices to convict
and sentence the defendants as charged.
In their judgment, Justices Sani and Yusuf convicted and
sentenced the defendants accordingly.
Specifically, Justice Sani sentenced Akeji, Yakubu and Isaac
to three years imprisonment with an option of fine of N300,000
(Three Hundred Thousand Naira Only) each, while Ayodele had an
option to sweep the Ilorin EFCC's office for one week.
In the same vein , Justice Yusuf sentenced Adebukola and Toheeb
to six months imprisonment with option of N100,000 (One Hundred
Thousand Naira Only) each.
The convicts were arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal
Command of the EFCC for internet- related offences. They were
prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
six-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-ilorin
**********************************
8 SEP 2022
Benin Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters Eight Years
Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court, sitting in Benin-
City, has convicted and sentenced the duo of Nnamdi Theo-Joseph
Duru and Israel Oluwaseun Ayoomoni to eight years imprisonment
for internet- related fraud.
Duru and Ayoomoni were convicted, after pleading guilty to one
- count separate charge, bordering on, retention of proceeds of
criminal conduct and possession of documents containing false
pretense, upon their arraignment by the Benin Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The lone- count charge against Duru reads: "that you Nnamdi
Theo-Joseph Duru sometimes between 1st January, 2017 to November,
2021 in Edo State within the jurisdiction of this honourable court
did retain the aggregate sum of N8,000,432,22 in your Access Bank
Account Number:0090793423 knowing that same represent proceeds of
your criminal conduct to wit' Cybercrime and thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 17(a) of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission (Establishment ) Act 2004 and punishable under
Section ßdz17(b) of the same Act."
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to
them.
Based on their pleas, prosecution counsel, K.Y. Bello, prayed
the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendants, Pascal Ugbome and Osaro Uyi prayed
the court to temper justice with mercy, as the defendants had
shown remorse for their actions.
Justice Itsuell convicted and sentenced Duru to five years
imprisonment, with an option of fine of N500,000 ( Five Hundred
Thousand Naira) while Ayoomoni bagged three years imprisonment
or a fine of N200,000 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira).
The judge also ordered Duru to forfeit the sum of $34,000 ( Thirty
Four Thousand United States Dollars), recovered from him in the
course of investigation, to the Federal Bureau of Investigation as
restitution to the victim while Ayoomoni also forfeited the sum
of N23,742.36( Twenty Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Forty Two
Naira, Thirty Six kobo) in his Guaranty Bank account and the sum
of N20,022.10( Twenty Thousand, Twenty Two Naira, Ten Kobo) in his
Polaris Bank account and the sum of 25 USD( Twenty Five United
States Dollars) which were recovered from him as proceeds of crime
to the Federal Government of Nigeria. He also forfeited his phone
to the government while the bank accounts are closed.
The convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre,
when they were arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal Command
of the EFCC, for internet- related offences. They were charged
to court and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
benin-court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-eight-years
*************************************
7 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests 11 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Benin
Zonal Command, on Wednesday, September 7, 2022 arrested 11 suspected
internet fraudsters.
They were arrested at their various hideouts in Benin City, Edo State,
following actionable intelligence worked upon by the Commission.
The suspects are Okon Destiny, Efe Edomwonyi, Tony Osarobo, Moses
Osazee, Ojo Festus, Christian Odiase and Bright Obaro. Others are
Precious Aghedo, Harmony Enobakhare, Oluwafemi Adigun and Gift
Inedegbor.
tems recovered from them at the point of arrest include various
brands of mobile phones, laptops and four vehicles.
The suspects will be arraigned in court soon.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-11-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
**************************************
7 SEP 2022
Four Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms in Kaduna
Justice Nasiru.U. Sadiq of the Kaduna State High Court has
convicted and sentenced four internet fraudsters to various
terms of imprisonment, for internet- related offences and
impersonation.
The fraudsters: Alpha Miagon Tingon(a.k.a Jeffrey M. Currie),
Bethel Eniola (a.ka. Alex), Ezekiel Isaac, and Benjamin Elijah,
were jailed on September 7, 2022, after pleading guilty to one-
count separate charge bordering on internet fraud and impersonation,
upon their arraignment by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one- count charge reads: "That you, Alpha Miagon Tingon,
sometime between April to August, 2022 at Kaduna within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud
obtained a total sum of 150 USD (United states dollars) as
payment to secure ac"Buffer" from one David Patet when you falsely
presented yourself to him as Jeffrey M. Currie, which pretence
you knew to be false and you thereby committed an offence of
Impersonation contrary to and punishable under Section 142(1)
of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017".
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges when
it was read to each one of them separately.
Based on their "guilty" pleas , prosecution counsels: M.E.
Eimonye and Moses Arumemi prayed the court to convict and
sentence them accordingly but defense counsels: Abu-Usman A,
Richard.O. Adedoyin, E.B. Maza, and Nwokoro Oluchi sued for
mercy of the court for the defendants, saying that they are
remorseful.
Justice Sadiq, thereafter convicted and sentenced Tingon to
three months imprisonment without an option of fine. The Apple
Iphone XR Ma, Samsung A21S and Nokia Touch phones used to carry
out the offence are forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria,
and a sum of $500(Five Hundred Thousand United States Dollars)
returned by the convict was also forfeited to the government.
Eniola was convicted and sentenced to three months imprisonment,
with an option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira)
while the Samsung Galaxy S9+ mobile phone used in committing
the offence was forfeited to the government.
Both Isaac and Chisom were also convicted and sentenced by Justice
Sadiq. While Isaac was sentenced to five years imprisonment, with
an option of fine of N150,000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira), Chisom was sentenced to three months imprisonment, with
an option of fine of N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira).
Isaac also forfeited an Apple Iphone 11pro and Infinix X5 Lite
phone to the government and the sum of $350 ( Three Hundred and
Fifty United States Dollar) also forfeited to the government.
All the convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre
when they were arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command
of the EFCC, for internet-related offences. They were investigated,
prosecuted and convicted.
four-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-kaduna
***************************************
6 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests 40 Suspected Internet Fraudsters In Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 40 suspected internet fraudsters
in some parts of Lagos State.
The suspects are: Doroye Olumide Joseph, Ajayi Oluwaseyi Emmanuel,
Olalekan Olaniyi Akonji , Oluwadare Samuel Olawale, Oloyede Olakunle,
Okon Ayomide Cornelius, Omokaro Ailele Jeffery, Oyedokun Opeyemi
Abdulrazaq, Olowofela Temidayo, Mosess Ossai, Dada Samuel Abiodun,
Francis Victor Oluwatobi, Ayobami Akanji, Osun Gbenga, Ajayi Femi,
Adewara Oluwadamilola, Anthony Okun, Olusegun Ibukunoluwa, Boluwatife
Adewale, Jerry Agoh, Oluseye Ayomipo, Anthony Adedolapo Dada, John
Adamso Tobi, Asagba James Oluwaseun and Ideh Rukeme Oghenetega.
Others are: Peter Nwaneri, Egbe David Morgan, Abu Mathew, Anjola
Emmanuel, Olashile Gabriel, Omobolaji Solomon, Allen Ayoola, Odenike
Sodiq, Oluwasina Temitope, Kareem Hassan, Fagbemiro Ayomide, Olaegbe
Hammed, Ejede Victor, Allen Abimbola and Confidence Atipko.
They were arrested at Awoyaya and Oral Estate areas of Lekki, Lagos
State on August 29, and September 1, 2022, following credible intelligence
received by the Commission about their alleged involvement in computer-
related fraud, identity theft and obtaining money under false pretence.
At the points of arrest, laptop computers, mobile devices containing
false documents as well as luxury cars were recovered from the suspects.
The suspects will soon be charged to court.
efcc-arrests-40-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
*************************************
5 SEP 2022
Court Jails Two Fraudsters Eight Years in Benin
Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court, has convicted and
sentenced the duo of Obinna Cosmas Clement and J. Sunkami to
eight years imprisonment.
Clement and Sunkanmi were jailed on Monday, September 5, 2022
after pleading guilty to one- count separate charge, bordering
on retention of proceeds of criminal conduct and possession of
fraudulent documents, upon being arraigned by the Benin Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge against Clement reads: "that you Obinna Cosmos Clement
on or about 1st May, 2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this honourable court did retain the sum of One
Hundred and Twenty Million, Four Hundred and Twenty Three Thousand,
Six Hundred and Eighty-Eight Naira Sixty -Five Kobo (N120,423,688.65)
in your United Bank for Africa account number: 2247175272 knowing
that same represent proceeds of your criminal conduct to wit;
Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
17(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment)
Act 2004 and punishable under Section 17(b) of the same Act."
Based on their pleas, prosecution counsel, Francis A. Jirbo
prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendants, Pascal Ugbome and Jeffery Iluobe Itua,
prayed the court to temper justice with mercy, stressing that the
defendants have become remorseful of their actions.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Clement to three (3)
years imprisonment with an option of fine of N200, 000 (Two
Hundred Thousand Naira) while Sunkanmi bagged five years( 5)
imprisonment with an option of fine of N200, 000( Two Hundred
Thousand Naira).
The judge also ruled that the total sum of One Hundred and
Twenty Million, Four Hundred and Twenty Three thousand, Six
Hundred and Eighty- Eight Naira, Sixty-five Kobo (N120,423,688.65)
found in Clement's United Bank for Africa account, Mercedes Benz
GLK 350, iPhone 12 promax recovered from him and iphone X recovered
from Sunkami, all being proceeds of crime, be forfeited to the
Federal Government of Nigeria through the EFCC.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre began when they
were arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC,
for internet- related offences. Investigations linked them with
proceeds of crime running into N120million , which they could not
account for. They were subsequently prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-two-fraudsters-eight-years-in-benin
********************************************
5 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests Club Owner, 21 Other Suspected Internet Fraudsters
in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested Adepoju
Olawale Sunday, owner of “De Rock Club”, Ring Road, Ibadan
and 21 other suspected internet fraudsters, in an intelligence
-driven operation.
The 21 other suspected internet fraudsters, including a couple:
Aladenusi Adegboyeyega Ayodeji and Aladenusi Omowunmi Sadiat
( a.k.a Bonnie and Clyde) are: Ajuwon Omobola Ibrahim, Ogunniyi
Atilade Stephen, Bolaji Olawale Quadri, Olajire Usthman Olamilekan,
Ojo Faruq Kolapo, Kajero Babatunde Sodiq, Kareem Taiwo Abiodun,
Bolaji Bolarinwa Toheeb, Banjo Micheal Toyin and Clement Clemson
Adeseye.
Others are: Babalola Segun Samuel, Opeyemi Gbenga Omoyemi, Okesanya
Seyi Matthew, Kareem Kehinde Damilola, Aledegbe Akinola Qodir,
Akindele Ayodele Solomon, Adewopo Adesuyi John, Iyiola Dolapo Ridwan
and Olabosinde Hammed Adesola.
Sunday, 36, graduate of Industrial Chemistry of the Olabisi Onabanjo
University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, also runs Helpline Foundation,
Special Service Global Trust (S.S.G) Limited, all in Ibadan. He
was arrested with a 2020 Range Rover HSE Sports Utility Vehicle.
The suspects were arrested after series of surveillance and
intelligence on their alleged criminal activities.
Items recovered from them include five cars, laptop computers,
mobile phones, and incriminating documents containing false presences.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-club-owner-21-other-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-ibadan
*****************************************
2 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests 17 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin-City
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 17 suspected
internet fraudsters.
They were arrested at their hideout in Benin City, Edo State
following actionable intelligence received by the Commission.
The suspects are Arebu Julius, Ebiechuwa Victory Ovie, John
Uwague, Edward Asuelimhen, Onyeka Sunday, Omorefe Osazee, Kelvin
Emmanuel, Osamuliamen Maxwell, Osrmudiamen Aganjele, Godday
Osaretin and Osayande Osariemen. Others are Destiny Enobokhare,
Daniel Collins, Collins Edobor, Chukwuemeka Johnson, Omofuma
Godpower and Progress Edoagu.
Items recovered from them at the point of arrest include phones
and laptops and seven vehicles of different brands.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
efcc-arrests-17-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
************************************
2 SEP 2022
Court Sends Eight Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Kaduna
Justice Nasiru U. Sadiq of the Kaduna State High court has convicted
and sentenced eight internet fraudsters to various terms of imprisonment
for internet-related offences, cheating and impersonation.
The fraudsters: Jimoh Hamza, David Joseph, Osondu Obinna Stanley, Praise
Yusuf, Ashiru Adamu, Abdulwasiu Yunus, Yusuf Buhari and Joseph Jerry were
jailed on Wednesday, August 31, 2022 after pleading guilty to one-count
separate charge bordering on impersonation and cheating, upon their
arraignment by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one count charge for David Joseph reads,: "That you David Joseph
Adoyi, on or about the 11th of August, 2022, at Goni Gora axis of Kaduna,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court and in such assumed
character impersonated one Mark Johnson (an American citizen) via your
Instagram account and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and
punishable under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017".
The charge for Abdulwasiu Yunus reads: "That you Abdulwasiu Yunus, Male,
sometimes in April, 2022, in Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, impersonated one Alina Belle, a citizen of United
States of America on Instagram and in such false identity engaged David
Plewis on a romantic relationship and obtained the sum of $5000 USD
(Five Thousand United States of America Dollar) worth of gift cards,
and you thereby committed cheating by impersonation, an offence contrary
to Section 308 of the Penal Code Law, 2017 of Kaduna State and punishable
under Section 309 of the same law".
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges when read
to each one of them separately.
Consequent on their guilty pleas, prosecution counsels: Moses Arumemi
and Matiyak Y. John and M. Lawal, prayed the court to convict them
accordingly but defence counsels: Abu Usman .A, N.S Dantata, Aba
Cornelius Afiyoup, N. Shehu and B.A Tanko, sued for mercy of the
court for the defendants, stressing that they had become remorseful.
Justice Sadiq thereafter convicted and sentenced Joseph to three months
imprisonment or pay a fine of N100,000,00( One Hundred Thousand Naira).
He is also to forfeit One Iphone 11 Pro mobile phone to the government.
Hamza was sentenced to three months imprisonment or pay a fine of N150,000.00
( One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) and forfeit One Apple Iphone X5 Max
mobile phone to the government.
Also, Yusuf bagged three months imprisonment or pay a fine of N150,000.00
and forfeit One Infinix Hot 5 mobile phone to the government. Both Stanley
and Adamu got three months imprisonment each or pay a fine of N100,000.00
each. They also forfeited their phones to the government
On the parts of Yunus and Buhari, Justice Sadiq convicted and sentenced
them to three months imprisonment each, without an option of fine. They
forfeited the following items to the government: one black LG Led TV, 3.1
multimedia speakers system, 5x5 Vitafoam mattress, one-seater cushion
chair, one Senwei SV2200 generator, one black and brown TV stand, one
black wall mirror. one Apple Iphone 12 Pro Max, one black Dell laptop,
a bank draft in the sum of N350,000.00( Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira), a 6x12 mattress, two black colour cushioned chairs, one Hisense
fridge, a washing machine, decoder, Yamaha generator, 4 sets of speaker,
a DVD video, one motorcycle, one microwave, two pairs of shoes and a
21 inch Hisense television set.
Jerry was also sentenced and convicted to three months imprisonment
with an option of fine of N100,000.00 and forfeited two mobile phones
to the government.
court-sends-eight-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-kaduna
*********************************************
1 SEP 2022
EFCC Arrests 41 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Awka
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested forty-one
(41) suspected internet fraudsters in Awka, Anambra State.
They were arrested on Wednesday, August 31, 2022 following
actionable intelligence on their alleged involvement in cyber
crimes and other related activities.
Sixteen(16) of the suspects were arrested at Umuodu Tansi
Road, Awka, Anambra State while the remaining 25 were arrested
at Umudu Okpuno Village,Awka South Local Government Area of
Anambra State.
The suspects are : Eze Stanley Chineze, Emmanuel Chijioke
Ejikeme, Chinonso Edwin Abonyi, Emmanuel Akoi Chibuike, Henry
Umenyi Chukwualuka, Ayo Iteze Chidiebere, Emeka Justice, Emmanuel
Ayakem, Ememuo Innocent Ifeanyi and Odinaka Udeh.
Others are: Okonkwo Stanley Chukwuma, Ezeakolam Godswill
Chihurumnanya, Emmanuel Mgbakor kenechukwu, Benneth Odinaka,
Ndefor Chukwudi, Ngadi Chima, Akalam Lucky Ibuchi, Akalam
Michael, Justus Akalam Chunazom, Akalam Kenneth, David Monday
Ebuka, Uchechukwu Kingsley Ebuka, Henry Echezona, Onyedika
Chukwu, Abuchi Awa, Henry Adumaka, Chidera Chika, Malachi
Asonbe, Cosmos Obidimma and Akuma Wisdom.
The rest are: Agwu Victor, Godwin Okoro, Obumneke Nwankwo,
Igboanugo Charles, Ibeh Chisom, Agbafuna Ifeanyi, Chukwu
Joseph, Chukwu Benard, Anson Ugochukwu, Mathew Chukwuemeka
and Temple Emmanuel.
Items recovered from them are several mobiles phones, laptops,
one Lexus RX350 Sports Utility Vehicle, one Lexus ES350 car,
another unregistered Lexus ES350 car and one Toyota Camry car.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are
concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-41-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-awka
**************************************
31 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests Nine Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested nine(9)
suspected internet fraudsters in a sting operation.
The suspects: Bassey Sunday Junior, Samson Zachariah,
Ogonyi Jeremiah, Sunday Martins, Austin Yayison, Wilson
Chinaza, Emmanuel Adeyi, Samuel Mark and Emmanuel Bassey,
were arrested on Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at Voque Hotel
in the Mararaba Area of Abuja for alleged involvement
in cybercrimes.
Thirteen (13) phones, three laptops and a Harman/Kardon
music box were recovered from them.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations a
re concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-nine-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
***************************************
31 AUG 2022
Three Internet Fraudsters Bag Nine Years Jail Term in Benin-City
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of three internet fraudsters.
The convicts: Osama Abraham Obasohan, Okunnuwa Moses and Osalenlen
Celestine, were jailed by Justice M. Itsueli of the Edo State High
Court, Benin City, on Monday, August 29, 2022 after pleading guilty
to one-count separate charge bordering on possession of documents
containing false pretence and retention of illegal proceeds of crime.
The charge against Osama Abraham Obasohan reads:
"That you Osama Abraham Obasohan sometime between 29 June, 2022 in
Edo State within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did retain
the sum of One Million Nine Hundred and Thirteen Thousand, Five Naira
Eighty One Kobo (N1,913,005.81) knowing that same represent proceeds
of your criminal conduct to wit; Cybercrime and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 17(a) of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, ( Establishment ) Act 2004 and punishable under
Section 17(b) of the same Act".
Upon arraignment, they all pleaded guilty to the charges preferred
against them by the EFCC.
Based on their pleas, prosecution counsels: Francis .A. Jirbo and
K.Y. Bello prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Itsuele thereafter convicted and sentenced Obasohan to five
years imprisonment, with an option of fine of N500,000( Five Hundred
Thousand Naira). Moses bagged one year imprisonment with an option
of fine of N300, 000( Three Hundred Thousand Naira), while Celestine
bagged three years imprisonment or a fine of N200, 000 (Two Hundred
Thousand Naira).
Additionally, the judge ordered that the total balance found in the
convicts' bank accounts, as well as phones: iPhone 7 plus; iphone 11
pro max ; iPhone 13 and iPhone 12 pro max, being proceeds of crime,
be forfeited to the Federal government of Nigeria.
The convicts began their journey to the Correctional Centre when
they were arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the
EFCC for internet-related offences. They were investigated, prosecuted
and eventually convicted.
The press release contains photos:
three-internet-fraudsters-bag-nine-years-jail-term-in-benin-city
********************************************
30 AUG 2022
Court Jails Two Fashion Designers, Three Others For Internet
Fraud In Ilorin
Justice Ibrahim Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court, Ilorin,
Kwara State has convicted and sentenced two fashion designers:
Jatto Mujeeb, Opeyemi Bhadmus Abdulsamad, alongside three other
internet fraudsters: Ipadeola Olawale, Tomiwa Kingsley and
Kolawole Segun to various jail terms.
They were jailed on Monday, August 29, 2022 after pleading guilty
to three-count separate charges bordering on internet fraud, cheating
and possession of fraudulent funds.
Based on their guilty pleas, prosecution counsels: Innocent Mbachie
and Sesan Ola prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Yusuf sentenced Mujid to six months imprisonment on each of
the three counts, with an option of fine of N50,000( Fifty Thousand Naira)
on each count. The court ordered that the iPhone 6 which was used to
commit the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The court imposed a jail term of six months on Bhadmus on each of
the two counts with an option of fine of N100,000 ( One Hundred
Thousand Naira) on each count. The iPhone 13, iPhone 6 and a draft
of N150,000 ( One Fifty Thousand Naira) which he raised as restitution
to the victim be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Olawale bagged a jail term of six months imprisonment on each of
the two counts, with an option of fine of N100,000 on each count.
The iPhone 13 and funds in his bank account : $400 ( Four Hundred
United States Dollars and N1,330, 250 ( One Million, Three Hundred
and Thirty Thousand, Two Hundred and Fifty Hundred Naira) are
forfeited to the Federal Government.
In a similar vein, Justice Yusuf sentenced Kingsley to six months
imprisonment on each of the three counts with an option of fine of
N100,000 on each count. The Judge ordered the forfeiture of his phone,
the sum of N91,000 ( Ninety One Thousand Naira ) in his bank account
and $300 ( Three Hundred United States Dollars) raised as restitution
to the Federal Government.
Segun bagged six months community service without an option of fine.
Additionally, he forfeited a laptop, two phones and sum of N1.2m found
in his bank account to the Federal Government.
The convicts’ journey to the Correctional Centre began when they
were arrested by operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC
for internet-related offences. They were prosecuted and convicted.
court-jails-two-fashion-designers-three-others-for-internet-fraud-in-ilorin
***************************************
30 AUG 2022
Four Internet Fraudsters Bag Community Service Terms in Ibadan
Justice Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo State High Court sitting in
Ibadan has convicted and sentenced four internet fraudsters
to different community service terms.
The convicts: Awujoola Jobi Muiz (a.k.a Brenda Laska Lukas),
David Sunday Chukwudi (a.k.a Dreak Frank), Samuel Stephen
Shekwuduza (a.k.a Mcillwain Huong) and Salawu Ayobami Adeyemi
(a.k.a Roselin Dave), were jailed on Friday, August 26, 2022
after pleading guilty to one-count separate charge bordering
on obtaining money by false pretences and fraudulent representation.
They all pleaded guilty to their respective charges when they
were read to them.
In view of their "guilty" pleas, prosecution counsel: Sanusi
Galadanchi prayed the court to convict and sentence them
accordingly.
Justice Taiwo found the four defendants guilty and sentenced
Muiz to six months community service, Adeyemi to four months
community service while Chukwudi and Shekwuduza were sentenced
to three months community service each.
The convicts are to forfeit all items recovered from them to
the Federal Government of Nigeria, and also restitute sundry
sums to their respective victims.
Their journey to the Correctional Centre started when operatives
of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the EFCC arrested them for suspected
internet-related offences. They were investigated, prosecuted and
convicted.
four-internet-fraudsters-bag-community-service-terms-in-ibadan
***************************************************
29 AUG 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Two Years Jail Term in Makurdi
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday, August 29, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of two internet fraudsters: Adikpo Diamond Aondover
and Mathew Itodo Onyilo, before Justice A. R. Mohammed of the Federal
High Court sitting in Abuja.
They were jailed after pleading guilty to one- count separate charge
preferred against them by the Makurdi Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The charge against Aondover reads:
"That you, Adikpo Diamond Aondover, sometime in 2021 at Makurdi,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently
impersonated one Elliott Winston Diamond from Worcester, Massachusetts,
(United States of American Citizen) via your mobile No. 08084695597
and 07088598890 with intent to gain advantage to yourself and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2)(b) (i) of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition, Prevention Etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section
22(2)(b) of the same Act".
The charge against Onyilo reads:
"That you, Mathew Itodo Onyilo sometime in June 2022 in Otukpo Benue
State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently
impersonated one Harold Marlar through his Instagram username with
intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22(2)(b)(i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition,
Prevention Etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under subsection (iv) of
the same Act".
They both pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsels: Mary Onoja and M. Yusuf,
respectively reviewed the facts of the cases before the court, while
praying that the convicts be sentenced accordingly.
Delivering judgment, Justice Muhammed sentenced Aondover to one year
imprisonment, with an option of fine in the sum of N400,000.00 ( Four
Hundred Thousand Naira).
Onyilo was also sentenced to one year imprisonment with an option
of fine in the sum of N400,000.00 (Four Hundred Thousand Naira).
Also, the Iphone 7 used in committing the crime was forfeited to
Federal Government of Nigeria while the two bank accounts used by
the convicts to access funds were closed by the court.
The two convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre
when they were arrested by operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command
of the EFCC for impersonating foreigners and defrauding their victims
through false claims.
The press release contains a photo:
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-two-years-jail-term-in-makurdi
**************************************************
28 AUG 2022
Avoid Cybercrime, EFCC Academy Comdt Charges Corps Members
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has urged
members of the Anti-corruption Community Development Service
Group of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, to embrace
hard work and avoid involvement in cybercrime and other types
of economic and financial crimes.
Commandant of the EFCC Academy, Ayo Olowonihi, gave the charge
during a sensitization programme at the Karu Local Government
Secretariat, Nasarawa State on Friday, August 26, 2022.
Olowonihi who was represented by the Head, Media Academy,
Assistant Commander of EFCC, Chidimma Amanambu urged corps
members to "be dedicated in whatever you are assigned to do
during your service because you never know how far you can
grow as a result of your commitment".
The corps members who were sensitized on the key provisions
of the EFCC Establishment Act, 2004 expressed the willingness
to carry the anti-corruption campaign to various schools and t
he society at large.
The press release contains a photo:
avoid-cybercrime-efcc-academy-comdt-charges-corps-members
*********************************************
26 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 10 Internet Fraud Suspects in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 10 suspected
internet fraudsters. The suspects were arrested on August 25,
2022, in a sting operation at various locations in Kubwa and
Gwarimpa areas of Abuja for alleged involvement in cyber-fraud.
Among items recovered from them at the point of arrest are
mobile phones, laptop computers and three luxury cars- a
Mercedes Benz CLA 250, Mercedes Benz GLK 350 and Toyota Venza.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the
investigations are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-10-internet-fraud-suspects-in-abuja
*************************************
25 AUG 2022
EFCC Secures Eight Convictions in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, August 25, 2022, secured eight
convictions in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The convicts, Bambgbose Temitayo Abiodun (a.k.a Scott Buchanan),
Adebayo Sodik (Trisha Patterson), Yekini Ismail Omokayode, Ayoade
Taofeek Adekunle (a.k.a Jessica Weaver),Taiwo Babalola Oluwatope
(a.k.a Bram Sem),Ibrahim Ayinla Ajadi (a.k.a Chris Young),Sodiq
Razaq Olamilekan (a.k.a Daren Amanda) and Adams Rasaq Lekan
(a.k.a Angelina Gomez) were prosecuted before Justices Bayo
Taiwo and Olusola Adetujoye of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan.
They all pleaded guilty to their respective one count charge.
Justice Taiwo pronounced Yekini guilty of the offence of obtaining
property by false pretences contrary to Section 419 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000 and sentenced him to six
months community service.
Similarly, Justice Adetujoye convicted Ayoade, Taiwo, Ajadi,
Olamilekan and Adams on separate one count charge of personation.
He sentenced Ayoade, Ajadi and Olamilekan to six months community
service while Taiwo and Adams bagged three months community service.
Earlier, on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, Justice Taiwo convicted
Bamgbose and Adebayo. The duo pleaded guilty to one-count amended
charge of possession of documents containing false pretense.
The convicts are to restitute their victims and forfeit the items
recovered from them to the Federal Government.
The press release contains small photos of all the 419ers:
efcc-secures-eight-convictions-in-ibadan
***********************************
25 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 11 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
Benin Zonal Command on Thursday August 25, 2022 arrested 11
suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.
The suspects are Kelvin Azuibike, Andrew Otuokparwo, Miracle
Eloze, Junior Oseyi, Okoye Godfrey, Oseiwa Oifoghe and Odia
Sylvester. Others are Ekhazor Evans, Collins Akpotu, Victor
Okoh and Francis Agathor.
They were arrested at their hideout following intelligence
on their alleged internet fraud-related activities.
Items recovered from the suspects at the point of arrest
include mobile phones and laptops.
They will be arraigned in court soon
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-11-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
************************************
24 AUG 2022
EFCC Arraigns Cubana Manager, One Other For Alleged
$164,000.00 Money Laundering In Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, arraigned
Lucky Uchechukwu Ndukwe, a Manager with Cubana Group, alongside
one Precious Omonkhoa Ofure before Justice Justice O.A. Fadipe
of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos for an
offence bordering on conspiracy to launder and money laundering.
Ndukwe, also known as Cubana Prime Minister, and Ofure were
arrested recently by operatives of the Commission, following
credible intelligence received about their involvement in
the fraudulent activity.
Items recovered from them include the sum of $164, 000. 00
(One Hundred and Sixty-four Thousand Dollars), iPhone mobile
devices and laptop computers.
The charge against them reads: "That you, Precious Omonkhoa
Ofure and Lucky Uchechukwu Ndukwe, sometime in 2021 in Lagos,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did conspire
amongst yourselves and laundered an aggregate sum of $164,000
(One Hundred and Sixty-four Thousand Dollars), which form
part of $256,314 (Two Hundred and Fifty-six Thousand, Three
Hundred and Fourteen United Sates Dollars) fraudulently
obtained by false pretence from one Elena Bogomaz, a Canadian
Citizen, and converted the fraudulent money into the United
States Dollars with the help of a Bureau De ChangeOperator,
which was then credited into the bank account of Casa Cubana
Estate Limited and Lucky Uchechukwu Ndukwe respectively for
the purchase of two and landed properties and committed an
offence contrary to Section 330 of lhe Criminal Law of Lagos
State, 2011."
During their arraignment today, Ndukwe "pleaded not guilty",
while Ofure pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
Consequently, the prosecution counsel, M.K.Bashir, reviewed
the facts of the case and prayed that the defendant, Ofure,
be sentenced accordingly.
Delivering judgment, Justice Fadipe found Ofure guilty and
sentenced him to three years imprisonment on two counts of
conspiracy and money laundering, with an option of fine in
the sum of Two Million Naira (N2,000,000.00) and 100 hours
of community service.
The Judge also ordered the forfeiture of all the items
recovered from the convict.
Counsel to Udukwe, Chuks Arubalaeze, told the court about
an application for bail on behalf of his client.
Justice Fadipe granted him bail in the sum of N5m (Five
Million Naira), with two sureties in like sum.
Justice Fadipe also ordered the remand of Udukwe in the
correctional facility pending the perfection of his bail
conditions and adjourned the case to October 28, 2022 for
commencement of trial.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arraigns-cubana-manager-one-other-for-alleged-164-000-00-money-laundering-in-lagos
***********************************************
24 AUG 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms In Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, secured the
conviction and sentencing of two internet fraudsters, Abu
Solomon and Nureni Olalekan, before Justice O.A. Fadipe
of the Special Offence Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
They were arraigned today on separate charges.
The charge against Solomon reads: "That you, Abu Solomon, on
or about the 8th March, 2021 in Lagos, within the Judicial
Division of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud,
had in your possession documents titled: "Google Account
Personal info" registered in the name of Addams Ava (female)
and other related documents for Romance Scam printed from
your email avaa09057@gmail.com ,which you knew to be false
and committed an offence contrary to Section 320 of the
Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015."
The charge against Nureni reads: "That you, Nureni Olalekan
Oladosu, a.k.a. James Marcello, between 2019 and 2021 in Lagos,
within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, retained an
aggregate of $1,600.00 (One-Thousand Six Hundred United States
of America Dollars)from unsuspecting female users of the internet
by means of fraudulent trick to wit: that you a white man known
as James Marcello and that you were in love with the said women
and committed an offence contrary to Section 323 of the Criminal
Law of Lagos State, 2015."
Solomon and Olalekan each pleaded "guilty" to the offence.
n view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, I.G. Akhanolu and
M.S. Owede, respectively reviewed the facts of the cases before
the court, while praying that the convicts be sentenced accordingly.
Delivering judgment, Justice Fadipe sentenced Solomon to one
year imprisonment for possession of fraudulent documents, with
an option of fine in the sum of N500,000.00( Five Hundred Thousand
Naira)and 40 hours of community service.
Olalekan, on his part, bagged two years in prison on two counts
of possession and cheating, with an option of fine of N1,000,000.00
(One Million Naira) and 80 hours of community service.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
8413-two-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-lagos
*************************************
24 AUG 2022
Court Jails Three Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Justice J.O.E. Adeyemi- Ajayi of the Federal Capital Territory,
FCT High Court, Maitama has convicted and sentenced the trio of
Nwani Chukwuma, Opara Emeka Peter and Moses Igomah Okini to
various terms of community service on internet-related offences.
They were jailed on Wednesday, August 24, 2022 after pleading
guilty to one-count separate charge bordering on impersonation,
upon their arraignment by the Abuja Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
They pleaded guilty to the one-count charge when it was read
to them.
Justice Adeyemi convicted and sentenced Chukwuma to clean the
FCT High Court, Maitama, for five hours a day for a period of
twenty one(21) days. He convicted and sentenced Peter to one
month imprisonment and ordered him to serve as a clerical
officer of the prosecution counsel for twenty(20) days. Also,
he was ordered to depose to an affidavit of good behaviour.
Additionally, the judge released his phone and drone seized
at the time of his arrest.
Okini was also convicted and sentenced to fourteen(14) days
of cleaning the court premises. He is also to depose to an
affidavit of good behaviour.
The convicts’ journey to the Correctional Centre began when
they were arrested by operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command
of the EFCC for internet-related offences, Chukwuma, in June
2022, made efforts to cheat one Florita, a Spanish citizen
by representing himself on two social media apps as one
Goodwill Chigo and Pablo Dennis, an American engineer living
in Los Angeles. Peter, on the other hand, pretended to be
one John, a military personnel based in Afghanistan, in an
attempt to defraud his victims while Okinni impersonated
one Eliana Harold, an American military woman.
The press re;ease contains photos of the 419ers"
court-jails-three-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
*************************************
24 AUG 2000
EFCC Arrests Four Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Benin
Zonal Command on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, arrested four suspected
internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.
The suspects are Monye Chukwudi, Egwasor Jim, Osasuyi Nosa and
Erhabor Osaikhuwu.
Items recovered from them include phones, laptops and cars -
Lexus EX350, Mercedes Benz C300 and Toyota Camry.
The suspects will be arraigned in court as soon the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-four-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
************************************
23 AUG 2022
Impersonator, Two Others Arrested for Fraud in Kano
The Kano Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC have arrested one Gazali Ado , a 35-year-old
impersonator who posed as an operative of the EFCC on the
Google map.
He was arrested following a petition by one Kenneth Nwarize
who alleged that the suspect defrauded him of the sum of N150,000
(One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only) under the pretext
that he is an operative of the Commission.
The petitioner alleged that he came across the phone number
(+2348115177852) of the suspect while he was searching for the
EFCC on Google to lodge a complaint; he called the number and
the suspect fraudulently solicited for the sum of N150, 000
which was paid into the bank account of one Ibrahim Mohammed.
Gazali was arrested alongside two others, Sanusi Abubakar
Liman and Ibrahim Mohammed.
The suspects will be arraigned in court as soon as the
investigation is concluded.
The Commission invites members of the public who might have
been defrauded through the above stated number to come forward
with information.
The press release contains photos:
impersonator-two-others-arrested-for-fraud-in-kano
****************************************
18 AUG 2022
Man Bags 5 Months Jail Term for Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction and sentencing of
one Sanni Joshua Omeiza before Justice N.U Sadiq of the Kaduna
State High Court on a one count charge for Internet-related fraud.
The charge reads: "That you, Sanni Joshua Omezia ( aka Bernard
Stephen) between January to July, 2022 at Kaduna within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court committed an offence to
with, falsely presented yourself as Bernard Stephen, a software
developer and a Web designer from Switzerland and in that assumed
character cheated Miss Lanina and several other unsuspecting
victims of the total sum of $1700.00 (One Thousand Seven Hundred
US Dollars) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law of 2017 and
punishable under Section 309 of the Same Law".
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Consequently, the Prosecuting Counsel, P.C Onyeneho urged
the court to convict the defendant accordingly.
Justice Sadiq convicted and sentenced the defendant to 5
months imprisonment with an option of N150,000.00 fine.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-bags-5months-jail-term-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
***************************************
17 AUG 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Internet Fraudster in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes,
EFCC, on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of one Badmus Usman Olaitan to one year in
prison for romance scam before Justice O.O Abike-Fadipe of
the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
Olaitan was arraigned on an amended one-count charge.
The count reads: "Badmus Usman Olaitan, on or about the 20th
day of January 2022 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, had in your possession
a document titled Google account personal info and other related
documents for romance dating scam printed from your gmail account,
which you knew to be false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
The prosecuting counsel, I.G. Akhanolu, gave a review of the
facts and also urged the court to convict him as charged.
He told the court that the defendant was arrested on January
20, 2022 at the Ipaja area of Lagos State, following actionable
intelligence received by the Commission about his involvement
in internet fraud.
According to him, the defendant was subsequently brought to
the EFCC's Lagos office, where mobile devices found on him were
forensically analysed and his statement taken.
"He was further interrogated and he admitted to engaging in a
romance scam," he said.
Akhanolu further told the court that the defendant admitted
to benefitting the sum of N1million and had restituted the sum
of N700, 000 through a First Bank manager's cheque in favour
of the EFCC Recovery Account.
He tendered in evidence the statements made by the defendant,
the mobile phones recovered from him and a copy of the manager's
cheque.
He also told the court that a Lexus ES 300 2003 model, in
addition to the mobile devices, was also recovered from the
defendant, adding that “he admitted that all were proceeds
of his illegal activities."
The statements of the defendant, the fraudulent documents
printed from the devices and a copy of the manager's cheque
were tendered in evidence by the prosecution and admitted
as exhibits against him.
Justice Abike-Fadipe found him guilty as charged.
The defendant, who was given an opportunity to address the
court, pleaded for mercy, telling the court that he had since
been engaging in a legitimate business.
"I was misled into engaging in Internet fraud by my friends,"
he said, as he promised never to go back to the fraudulent
activities.
Justice Abike-Fadipe sentenced him to one year in prison and
gave him an option of fine of N500, 000 and 40 hours of community
service.
Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the
Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
8399-efcc-secures-conviction-of-internet-fraudster-in-lagos
**************************************
16 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 24 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 24 suspected
internet fraudsters in the Ajah area of Lagos.
The suspects are: Kelvin Essien, Michael Ekene, Steve Ochanogor,
Oladujoye Samuel, Ohaeme Samuel, George Emeka, Adenigbo Igbola,
Famugiloh Hakeem, Samuel Elohor, Michael Ugochukwu, Olumide
Olalekan, Ayanipo David and Adulawo Oladipupo Victor.
Others are: Okenwa Emeka Okobi, Adeyanju Olamide Blessing, Temi
Simon, Elias Andrew Ogbe, Elvis Akuya, Onyebuchi Chisom, Abraham
Nnana, Nwune Fortune, Golden Felix, Azeri Olam and Sushie Christian.
The suspects were arrested on July 28, 2022 at Happy Land Estate,
Ajah, Lagos, following credible intelligence on their alleged
criminal activities.
Items recovered from them, at the point of arrest, include exotic
vehicles, mobile devices and laptops.
The suspects have volunteered their statements with the EFCC
and will soon be charged to court.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-24-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
*************************************
16 AUG 2022
Three Jailed for Cyber-Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction and
sentencing of three fraudsters before Justice N.U Sadiq
of the Kaduna State High Court for cheating and impersonation.
The trio, Jimoh Olawale AbdulAzeez, Jeremiah Joseph (aka
Means Smith) and Sani Zakariyyah Onoruoiza, who specialized
in identity theft to defraud unsuspecting victims, were
convicted after pleading guilty to the charges preferred
against them by the EFCC.
Justice Sadiq sentenced them to various prison terms with
option of fine and ordered the forfeiture of the devices
used in perpetrating the crimes.
three-jailed-for-cyber-fraud-in-kaduna
********************************
15 AUG 2022
Two Convicted for Investment, Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Monday, August 15, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of two internet fraudster, Nnabuihe Martins, and
Joseph Amoto, before Justice N. U Sadiq of the Kaduna State High
Court on charges bordering on attempt to cheat by impersonation
and cheating by impersonation.
The one count charge for which Nnabuihe was convicted reads:
"That you, Nnabuihe Martins, (M) sometime in 2021 in Kaduna,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did pretend
to be a Chief Executive Officer of one Trade Master FX, an
online investment platform when you knew you were not and
in such assumed character cheated unsuspecting victims the
sum of $500(Five Hundred USD), when you claimed that such
monies will be invested and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law
of 2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law".
For Patrick, the charge reads: "That you, Joseph Amoto Patrick
between January and July, 2022 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court attempted to commit an offence and in
such an attempt did a certain act towards the commission of the
said offence, to wit; falsely presented yourself as Chen Zhijin
and Shini Iseul (an Asian) to several unsuspecting victims on
several online social media applications in order to cheat them
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 57 of
the Kaduna State Penal Code Law of 2017 and punishable under
Section 309 of the same Law".
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges preferred
against \them.
Following their pleas, the prosecution counsel, M.J. Argungu
and defence counsel, S.A Yahaya and Achimugu John Achimugu
urged the court to enter the plea bargain agreement between
the parties as the judgement of the court.
The judge consequently convicted and sentenced Patrick to
five years Imprisonment with an option of fine of N150, 000.00.
He is also to forfeit the Apple IPhone used as an instrument
to perpetrate the crime to the Federal Government of Nigeria
through EFCC.
Martins was convicted and sentenced to 6 months imprisonment
or a fine of N150, 000.00. He was equally ordered to forfeit
an LG DVD Home Theatre, Lituan Generator, LG semi-automatic
washing machine, MTN wireless local area network, Samsung
Galaxy A22 and a 55 inch Samsung TV to the Federal Government
of Nigeria through EFCC.
Trouble started for the defendants when an Intelligence was
\received on their alleged involvement in internet-related
fraud.
Upon receipt of the report, they were placed under surveillance,
leading to their eventual arrest.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
two-convicted-for-investment-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
***********************************
15 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 7 suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
have arrested a syndicate of 7 suspected internet fraudsters.
The suspects, Nnonyelu Favour Chioma, Ajator Henry Sopulu,
Ego Andy Seji, Okeke Ikechukwu Jude, Oshioriamite Perfect,
Ego Akin and Okeke were arrested on August 12, 2020 in a
sting operation at Tunlapal Estate, Kurudu, Abuja.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones and computer
devices.
They will be arraigned in court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-7-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
****************************************
15 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests Brothers, 23 Others for Alleged
Internet Fraud in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 25 suspected
internet fraudsters in some parts of Lagos State.
The suspects are: Oyewole Damilola, Ovin Adekunle, Ovin
Nicholas, Ridwan Iyiola, Aregbesola Tobiloba, Oladosu Saheed,
Oseni Omotara, Abel Durotimi, Oyeneye Rilwan Adetola, Omoregbe
Destiny Nosa, Evbonaye Olaleye, Adeyemo Abiola, Temitope
Ajetonmobi, Dare-Ilori Oreoluwa David, Adekanye Ayodeji Ezekiel,
Osagie Harry Odosa and Arowolo Oluwafemi Isaac.
Others are: Agbaje Jackson Babatunde, Owolabi Temiloluwa
Dominion, Fadipe Biodun Idris, Agbayo Moshood Oriyomi,
Sylvester Evans, Oshokoya Olaoluwa Muritalah, Omotoye
Collins Oluwaseun and Hassan Abdulwahab Oladimeji.
While the quartet of Damilola, Adekunle, Nicholas and
Iyiola were arrested on August 10, 2022 at Palmcity Estate,
Lekki area of Lagos State, the others were picked up at
City-View Estate, Off Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, on August
12, 2022.
They were arrested following credible intelligence gathered
by the Commission on their alleged involvement in computer-
related fraud.
Items such as exotic vehicles, laptops and mobile phones
were recovered from the suspects at the point of arrest.
The suspects have volunteered their statements and will
soon be charged to court.
efcc-arrests-brothers-23-others-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-lagos
*************************************
12 AUG 2022
Boutique Owner Jailed 18months for Yahoo-Yahoo
in Ilorin, Loses House, to FG
Justice Ibrahim Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court sitting in
Ilorin on Friday, August 12, 2022 sentenced a 25-year-old boutique
owner, Muhammed Soliu, from Woru, Ilorin East Local Government
Area of the State to 18months imprisonment for offences bordering
on internet fraud.
The judge found Muhammed guilty on the three counts levelled against
him by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, and consequently pronounced a prison term of 6 months
on each count, to run concurrently.
Muhammed's journey to prison started on August 2, 2022 when operatives
of the EFCC, while acting on intelligence on the infamous activities
of some internet fraudsters in Ilorin, traced him to his house located
at Oke-Ose area of the metropolis, where he was arrested.
Investigation into the case revealed that Muhammed, in the course of
his illegal deals benefited over N28million, part of which he used
to build a house, establish a boutique and purchase a Toyota Camry car.
The defendant pleaded guilty when the three count charges were read
to him.
Justice Yusuf, while sentencing the convict gave N100,000 (One Hundred
Thousand Naira Only) as option of fine on each count. The judge also
ordered the forfeiture of a 3- bedroom bungalow located at Yangamu,
Oke-Ose, Ilorin; a Toyota Camry Car with registration number KSF 846 HG;
78 pieces of new clothes recovered at his boutique; one standing fan;
the sum of N1,482,516.90 (One Million, Four Hundred and Eighty-Two
Thousand, Five Hundred and Sixteen Naira, Ninety Kobo) proceeds of
the crime found in the convict's bank account and the two phones,
which he used to perpetrate the crime, to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
boutique-owner-jailed-18months-for-yahoo-yahoo-in-ilorin-loses-house-to-fg
****************************************
12 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 26 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Asaba
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
Benin Zonal Command on Thursday, August 11, 2022 arrested 26
suspected internet fraudsters at their hideout in Asaba, Delta
State.
The suspects are Austin Okolo, Modebe Olisa, Onyemailu Chisom,
Igbudy Collins Eloho, Onyema Okwuose, Daniel Idoko Emumena,
Chidibele Kelvin, Pius Ikwebe, Azubuike Maxwell Odor, Obaze
Justice, Monye Emeka Divine, Okirhienye Oghenetega, Anointed
Governor, and Nebeolisa Obinna.
Others include Johnson Nnaemeka and Augstine Imunor. Others
are Ukazu Henry, Destiny Ikpekpe, Joromi Odoko, Clinton Oletu
Emma, Nicholas Brain, Anamali Azuka, Nonye Fimber Dugbele,
Nwazi Ebuka, Chmezie Emeka and Onyeje Chuka.
Items recovered from them include a Toyota Camry car, two
Mercedes Benz C300 cars, mobile phones and laptops.
The suspects will be arraigned in court soon.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-26-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-asaba
***********************************
12 AUG 2022
Internet Fraud: Corps Member Jailed, Loses House,
Car, N.9m to FG in Ilorin
A corps member currently serving in Ogbomosho, Oyo State,
Adetuberu Christopher Adetoyese, has been sentenced to two
years imprisonment for internet- related fraud offences
by Justice Ibrahim Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court
sitting in Ilorin.
The court, on Thursday, August 11, 2022 found Adetuberu,
28, guilty of the two counts preferred against him by the
Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
Justice Yusuf while sentencing Adetuberu ordered the forfeiture
of a 3-Bedroom flat acquired with the proceeds of the illegal
activities, a Lexus car, different brands of phones and a laptop,
which are instruments of the crime as well as the sum N921, 535.49 i
n his bank account to the Federal Government.
The judge, who however gave the convict an option of fine of
N200, 000 said his conviction would serve as deterrence to others.
It would be recalled that operatives of the EFCC while acting
on intelligence recently arrested Adetuberu, who hailed from
Ilesha, Ilesha West Local Government Area of Osun State at
Ogele area of Eyenkorin, Ilorin.
The convict had in the course of investigation revealed that
he ventured into 'Yahoo Yahoo Business' in 2016 and had among
other things built a house with the proceeds of the illegal
activities.
In a related development, Justice Yusuf also sentenced a
30-year-old aluminum fabricator, Olayiwola Tunde Saheed,
who acts as ‘Loader’ to co-fraudsters to six months
imprisonment at the Correctional Centre in Ilorin without
option of fine.
Olayiwola, who hails from Olorunda Local Government Area,
Oshogbo, Osun State was found guilty of one count charge of
possessing funds which he knew to be proceeds of unlawful
activities preferred against him by the EFCC.
In his judgment, the judge said that he found merit in the
prosecution's case adding that the admittance of guilt by the
defendant was enough evidence to convict him.
Justice Yusuf, while sentencing Olayiwola ordered that the
Toyota Camry car recovered at the point of his arrest, his
phone and a laptop, which are instruments of the illegal
activities be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains photos:
internet-fraud-corps-member-jailed-loses-house-car-n-9m-to-fg-in-ilorin
*******************************************
11 AUG 2022
Man Convicted for Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC on August 11, 2022 secured the
conviction and sentencing of one Stephen Babi Charles
before Justice N.U. Sadiq of the Kaduna State High
Court for cybercrime.
The one count charge reads: "That you, Stephen Babi
Charles(aka Sang Hoon Sang) between January and July,
2022 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, attempted to commit an offence and in such an
attempt did a certain act towards the commission of the
said offence, to wit; falsely presented yourself as Sang
Hoon Sang and Joebong (a marine engineer) to several
unsuspecting victims on several online social media
applications in order to cheat them and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 57 of the
Kaduna State Penal Code Law of 2017 and punishable
under Section 309 of the same Law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Justice Sadiq convicted and sentenced the defendant to
five months Imprisonment with an option of fine of
N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira).
He is also to forfeit the Techno Spark phone used
to perpetrate the crime to the Federal Government
of Nigeria through EFCC.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-convicted-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
*****************************************
11 AUG 2022
Five Convicted for Internet Fraud in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, today, Thursday, August 11, 2022 secured the
conviction of five cybercriminals before Justice Iyabo Yerima
of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan on separate one count charge
of impersonation, contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code
Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The convicts are Ojekale Samuel Ayodimeji, Azeez Toheeb Oluwatemilorun,
Ayomide Michael Eniola, Adetona Oladimeji Abdulazeez and Shonola Gafar
Opeyemi.
The charge against the latter reads: "That you, Shonola Gafar Opeyemi
'M' on or about the 16th of June 2022 at Ibadan, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, did falsely represent
yourself to be Lewa David which representation you knew to be false and
thereby committed the offence of impersonation contrary to Section 484
of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
The charge against Ojekale reads: "That you, Ojekale Samuel Ayodimeji
on or about the 16th day of June, 2022 at Ibadan, Oyo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud one
Kristin J. Smith falsely represented yourself as Jenifer Wills, a white
lady from the United States of America, which representation you knew
to be false and thereby committed the offence of impersonation contrary
to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
The charge against Oluwatemilorun reads, "That you, Azeez Toheeb
Oluwatemilorun on or about 30th March, 2022, at Ibadan within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud, gained
an advantage for yourself when you impersonated and represented
yourself to be a white American female by the name of Kim Hairby
Yvonne from the United States of America and other pretences you
knew to be false and thereby committed the offence of impersonation
contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of
Oyo State, 2000."
The charge preferred against Eniola reads: “That you, Ayomide
Michael Eniola ‘M’ sometime in May, 2022 at Ibadan, Oyo State,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent
to defraud, did falsely represent yourself to be a female who
goes by the name Debra Rene Click, from Florida, United States
of America and other false representations, which you knew to
be false and you thereby committed the offence personation
contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws
of Oyo State, 2000."
The charge against Adetona reads: "That you, Adetona Oladimeji
Abdulazeez ‘M’ on or about the 16th of June, 2022 at Ibadan,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent
to defraud, did falsely represent yourself to be Dora Maccarty,
which representation you knew to be false, thereby committed
the offence of impersonation contrary to Section 484 of the
Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
They pleaded “guilty” to the charges preferred against them
by the EFCC.
Consequently, the prosecution counsel, Abdulrasheed Lanre
Suleiman, urged the court to convict and sentence the defendants
as charged.
Justice Yerima thereafter, convicted and sentenced Ayodimeji,
Oluwatemilorun, Eniola and Opeyemi to six months community
service each while Abdulazeez bagged three months community
service.
Also, the convicts were ordered to restitute their victims
and forfeit all the items recovered from them to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
five-convicted-for-internet-fraud-in-ibadan
**************************************
11 AUG 2022
Court Jails Six for Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and
sentencing of six internet fraudsters before Justices
Darius Khobo and N.U Sadiq of the Kaduna State High
Court on a one count charge each bordering impersonation,
contrary to Section 142 (1) of the Kaduna State Penal
Code Law, 2017.
The convicts include Hassan Sarki (aka Olivia Logan),
Ikani Abdullahi Sani (aka Vegas Smart), Japhtan Alhassan
(aka Harry Mack), Hassan Peters Martins (aka Terra Amy
John), James Zion Ogah (aka Clara Benjamin) and Vincent
Tony (aka Kim Castro).
They all pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against
them. Consequently, the prosecuting counsel, N.Salele,
E.M Eimonye, Moses Arumemi, M.J Argungu and M.Lawal urged
the courts to convict them accordingly.
They were sentenced to various jail terms with option
of fines and ordered to forfeit items recovered from them
to the Federal Government.
court-jails-six-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
*************************************
11 AUG 2022
11 Suspected Fraudsters Nabbed in Enugu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Enugu
Zonal Command on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, arrested 11
suspected internet fraudsters from different locations in
Enugu, Enugu state.
The suspects are Kelechukwu Victor, Ozo Chiagoziem Justin,
Obi Ifechukwu Emmanuel, Chisom Mbachie Camillus, Nnadi Nathan
Obiajulu, Promise Eze, Arinze Okoli, Okechukwu Azubuike, Egbo
Obinna Dickson, Alumudu Samuel Chinedu and Tobechukwu Ogugua.
Items recovered from them include one Toyota Camry with
registration number ENU-751- DR, several phones and laptops.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are
concluded.
11-suspected-fraudsters-nabbed-in-enugu
**********************************
10 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 22 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, August 9, 2022 arrested 22 suspected internet
fraudsters in Brains and Hammers Estate in the Life Camp area
of Abuja.
Their arrest followed actionable intelligence received by the
Commission on their alleged internet fraud – related activities.
The suspects are: Bobo Alfred, George Igbinigie, Olumofin Sandra,
Ighalo Emmanuel, John Paul, James Obele, Godwin Dan, Chidi Obele,
John Obo, Omoike Godson, Ihonor Maruis, Omoarebun Godstime,
Omoarebun Esteem, Okiki Julius, Godwin Omoruyi, Albert Success,
Michael Kenny, Raymond Amaechi, Okiki Tombra, Amos Worwei, Soware
Evans, Eroesiri Whiskel.
Items recovered from them include seven vehicles and several
laptops and mobiles phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are
concluded.
efcc-arrests-22-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
*******************************
10 AUG 2022
Bawa Honours Winners of 2021 EFCC Essay Competition…
Tasks Awardees to be good
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa on Wednesday, August 10,
2022, at the Commission's headquarters in Abuja presented
awards to the three winners of the 2021 EFCC Essay competition
titled: "How to Fight Economic and Financial Crimes to Make
Nigeria Great."
The winners, Ehizogie Iyeomoan, an undergraduate student of
Law at the Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma, Edo State; Omtoso
Abiola Sodiq, an Engineering student of the University of Ibadan,
Oyo State and Zeenat Magaji an undergraduate of Cyber Security
at the Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State, who
emerged first, second and third best winner respectively, were
among the over 5000 entries received by the Commission.
The EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa who lavished encomiums
on the winners for distinguishing themselves in the service
of the country, admonished other youths to tow the path of
honour rather than crime by making Nigeria Great.
“We encourage you not only to serve as role models but change
agents by shunning all acts of corruption and economic crimes.
"It is no use lamenting that things are not right with our
country. We are inviting you to invite others to lend a hand
in helping us build a society", he said.
While assuring that the Commission will painstakingly look
into the suggestions as contained in the winning essays, the
EFCC Chairman advised the winners to be good ambassadors of
the Commission.
Bawa also commended the judges for a job well done for being
able to arrive at the selection of winners from the over 5000
entries. The EFCC Boss promised to institutionalize the essay
competition as an annual event to enable other Nigerians to
lend their voices to the anti-graft fight.
The five eminent Nigerians from the academia and the media
who were carefully selected to screen and assess the over
five thousand entries submitted were: Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi,
Dean, Faculty of Mass Communication, Baze University, Abuja;
Dr. Amina Salihu, Senior Programme Officer, MacArthur Foundation,
Abuja; Dr. Chido Onumah, Coordinator, African Centre for Media
& Information Literacy (AFRICMIL) Abuja; Mrs. Maupe-Ogun-Yusuf,
Editor, Channels TV, Abuja and Mr. Ade Adesomoju, Head, Anti-
corruption, Human Rights & Judiciary Desk, Premium Times.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-essay-competition-tasks-awardees-to-be-good-ambassadors
****************************************
9 AUG 2022
31 Arrested for Alleged Internet Fraud in Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Tuesday, August 9, 2022,
arrested 31 suspected internet fraudsters from their hide out
at Meniru Agbani Road and Diamond Estate, Enugu State.
The suspects are: Daniel Chukwuemeka, Okechukwu Chisom, John
Chizoba, Benard Uguochukwu, Nwobodo Christian, Nwiba Chukwuemeka,
Eze Ani Ifechukwu, Chikwe James, Emmanuel Chukwuebuka, Ezugwu
Chidera, Friday Daniel, Destiny Ekene, Prosper Nnachetam, Justice
Chinedu and Bright Chimezie.
Others include Ezugu Nkejika, Echi Ikechukwu, Udeh Emeka,
Charles Kosisochukwu, Ojinaka Smith, Ekene Chukwuebuka, Efe
Samuel, Goodness Ifeanyi, Victory Anointing, Uche Egbo, Onuigbo
Kingsley, Okakpu Chukwuemeka, Nnamdi Odo, Mbah Emmanuel, Collins
Nweke and Jason Obi.
Their arrest was facilitated by actionable intelligence on
their cybercrime activities.
Items recovered from them include a Mercedes Benz C4000, one
Toyota Corolla 2005 model, a Toyota Camry, several mobile phones
and laptops.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is
completed.
The press release contains photos:
31-arrested-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-enugu
*************************************
9 AUG 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Jail Term in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, today, August 9, 2022 secured the conviction
and sentencing of an internet fraudster, Olamilekan Wasiu
Durojaiye, before Justice Mojisola Dada of a Special Offences
Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
Justice Dada sentenced the convict to one year imprisonment
on a two-count charge bordering on possession of document
containing false pretence brought against him by the EFCC.
Upon his arraignment today, he pleaded guilty to the offence.
One of the counts reads, "that you, Olamilekan Wasiu Durojaiye
sometime in 2020 within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
knowingly had in your possession documents containing false pretence
to wit: SCAM FORMAT titled Celebrity Billing Format and committed
an offence contrary to section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos
State, 2015".
The 2nd count reads, "that you,, Olamilekan Wasiu Durojaiye
sometime in 2020 within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, knowingly had in your possession documents containing
false pretence to wit: Chat format wherein you pretended to
be a white woman which representation you knew were false
and committed an offence contrary to section 320 of the
Criminal Law of Lagos state, 2015".
In view of his guilty plea, the prosecution counsel, A.O Mohammed,
reviewed the facts of the case and tendered documents to further
prove the guilt of the defendant.
Justice Dada found him guilty of the offence and sentenced him to
one year imprisonment on both counts of the charge. The Judge also
granted him an option of fine in the sum of One Million Naira.
The convict was also ordered to pay a restitution of Seven
Hundred Thousand Naira and forfeit his mobile device to the
Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-jail-term-in-lagos
***********************************
9 AUG 2020
EFCC Arrests 8 Internet Fraud Suspect in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested eight
suspected internet fraudsters. They were nabbed on Tuesday
August 9, 2022, in a sting operation at Visa Karina Hotel,
located at the New Government Reserved Area, GRA, Port
Harcourt, Rivers State.
The suspects: Mba Richard Oguge, Ogochukwu Ifeanyi Charles,
Fredrick Mba, Gospel Uduak James, Charles Chukwuemeka, Daniel
Ekanem Daniel, Andikan Udofot and Omolade Fortune, were arrested
with incriminating items in their devices (mobile phones, laptop
computers and apple wrist watches).
Cars were also among the items recovered from them.
They will soon be charged to court.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-8-internet-fraud-suspect-in-port-harcourt
***********************************
9 AUG 2020
Again, EFCC Busts Yahoo Hideouts, Arrests 18 in Lokoja
As part of efforts by the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, to curb the rising wave of internet
related fraud otherwise known as 'Yahoo-Yahoo', the
Ilorin Zonal Command of the Commission have again
extended its dragnet to Kogi State leading to the
arrest of 18 suspected 'Yahoo-Yahoo Boys' in Lokoja,
the state capital.
This is the second such operation in the State within
the last two months. Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal
Command of the EFCC, had in June 2022 arrested 19
suspected fraudsters at different locations in Lokoja.
The latest arrest, which was made on Wednesday, August
3, 2022 followed actionable intelligence received by
the Commission.
Among the suspects are two siblings - Bala Caleb Abdulkarim
and Ayuba Bala. Others are Adebayo Olubunmi, Yusuf Salawu,
Victor Yakubu, Victor Udeh, Abutu Francis, Moses Akeji,
Aiyegbe ThankGod, Eniola Adeniji, Abraham Ayodele, Julius
Omowale, Samuel Onojah, Saka Usman Ojo, Isaac Emmanuel,
Yusuf Mohammed, Ibrahim Musa and Omaonu Ojochenemi Victor.
Preliminary investigations have shown that the suspects
operate as a syndicate to scam unsuspecting victims.
The suspected 'Yahoo-Yahoo Boys', had incriminating items
in their possession including five different brands of exotic
cars, phones and laptops. They have volunteered statements
to the Commission and will be charged to court upon the
conclusion of the ongoing investigations.
The press release contains photos:
again-efcc-busts-yahoo-hideouts-arrests-18-in-lokoja
********************************
9 AUG 2022
29 Arrested for Alleged Internet Fraud in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, August 3,
2022 arrested twenty-nine (29) internet fraud suspects in
a sting operation at Omi-Adio area of Ibadan, Oyo State.
The suspects are Abdullahi Kehinde Tawab, Ayomide Alase
Abiodun, Hassan Larla Olamilekan, Makinde Adebowale Saheed,
Tofunmi Oyebade Segun, Rotimi Gbadamosi Ayomide, Igbamidun
Joshua Olamiposi, Gbadamosi Samson Tobiloba, Qodir Ayoola
Babalola, Frank Obi Ogechukwu, Olawale Abowaba Joshua, Dauda
Kareem Oladayo, Hammed Dauda Akanji, Yusuf Akorede Abiodun
and Haruna Adedoyin Kayode.
Others include Yusuf Lawale Raji, Adejare Ayuba Olamide,
Owolabi Gbadamosi Moses, Victor Salami Gbenga, Abdullahi
Teslim Taiwo, Oluwaseun Abowaba Samuel, Alase Ayodele
Philip, Oduola Kunmi Ireola, Ajayi Olumide Olamilekan,
Opeyemi Samuel Enitan, Yusuf Ayobami Qudus, Atanda Jamiu
Olamide, Ibrahim Bashit Alade and Ilori Peter Oladapo.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones, laptops,
two motor-bikes, one i-watch, video games and jewelry.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigations
are concluded
The press release includes photos:
29-arrested-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-ibadan
******************************************
9 AUG 2022
Court Sends Internet Fraudster to Jail in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on August 8, 2022, secured the conviction of
one Yusuf Adetokunbo, before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the
Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos for offence
bordering on possession of documents containing false pretence.
Adetokunbo was arraigned on a one-count charge dated July 22,
2022, bordering on possession of documents containing false
pretenses contrary to Section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos
State, 2015.
The count reads: "That you, Yusuf Olawale Adetokunbo on or about
the 29th April, 2022 at Lagos, within the Ikeja jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court with the intent to defraud had in your
possession a bundle of fraudulent chats containing false pretence
in your Google voice app and email with the name phamhoangcungnai30@gmail.com
which pretence you knew or ought to know to be false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to him.
The prosecuting counsel, Nnaemeka Omewa, thereafter gave a review
of the facts.
He further tendered in evidence the fraudulent documents printed
from his iPhone X and iPhone 6+, as well as a draft of N200,000
issued as restitution by the defendant.
There was no objection by the defence counsel, Kayode Oyedele, and
they were admitted as Exhibit A and B.
"We urge the court to convict the defendant as charged and to
forfeit to the Federal Government the items recovered from him,"
Omewa said.
Thereafter, Justice Taiwo convicted him as charged and sentenced
him to six months at a Custodial Centre, with an option of N150,000
fine. Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the
Federal Government
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-in-lagos
**************************************
8 AUG 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Eleven Cybercriminals in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on August 3 and 4, 2022 secured the conviction
of eleven (11) cybercriminals on separate charges of fraudulent
impersonation before Justices Olusola Adetujoye and Bayo Taiwo
of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan.
The offences are contrary to Section 419 and 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 38, Law of Oyo State, 2000.
Justice Adetujoye convicted and sentenced Fatai Musbau Opeyemi,
Ayodele Olumide Sunday, Oribolawa Idris Abiodun, Abdulahi Malek
Olaniyi, Onigbinde Rasaq Oyindamola and Emmanuel Victor Mayowa
to various jail terms; while Justice Taiwo convicted Moses
Oyowevotu Oghenaire, Awwal Babatunde Arekemase, Adewale Ayomipo
Owolabi, Yusuf David Olamide and Atitade Hassan Ajao.
The defendant pleaded "guilty" to the charges filed against them,
leading to their conviction and sentencing.
Justice Adetujoye sentenced Oyindamola and Abiodun to six months
community service each; Mayowa who was convicted on a two count
charge bagged three months jail term while Opeyemi, Sunday and
Olaniyi were sentenced to three months community service each.
Furthermore, Justice Taiwo sentenced Oghenaire, Arekemase, Owolabi,
Olamide and Ajao to six months community service each.
Also, the court ordered that the convicts restitute their victims
and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release contains small photos of all the 419ers:
efcc-secures-conviction-of-eleven-cybercriminals-in-ibadan
***************************************
8 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 3 Internet Fraud Suspects at
Ilorin International Airport
As part of its renewed onslaught against corruption and illegal
movement of cash through the nation’s airports, operatives of
the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC have arrested three internet fraud suspects
at the Ilorin International Airport.
They are Olawale Ipadeola, Opeyemi Badmus and Wasiu Babatunde.
The suspects were arrested on Monday, August 8, 2022 except
for Wasiu who was arrested on Saturday, August 6, 2022 following
actionable intelligence.
Two of the suspects (Olawale and Opeyemi), flew in from Lagos
around 1156hours into the waiting hands of the operatives of
the EFCC at the airport.
Preliminary investigations have shown that the suspects possessed
several fraudulent documents on their devices.
The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of
the ongoing investigations.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-3-internet-fraud-suspects-at-ilorin-international-airport
**************************************
8 AUG 2022
EFCC Arraigns Man for Job Scam in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday,
August 8, 2022, arraigned one Ahmed Umar before Justice A.O.
Adeyemi Ajayi of the Federal Capital Territory High Court,
Maitama Abuja on a two count charge of cheating and obtaining
by false pretense.
The defendant allegedly presented himself as a Flying Officer
of the Nigerian Air Force and obtained the sum of N300, 000
from one Caleb Ibrahim on the pretext of securing a job for him.
One of the counts reads, "that you, Ahmed Umar sometime in
2022 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of N300,000 (Three
Hundred Thousand Naira) from Caleb Ibrahim under the false
pretense that you will secure job for him which pretence you
knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1
(3) of the same Act".
Another count reads, "that you, Ahmed Umar sometime in 2022
at Abuja, within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
did cheat by personation, by representing yourself to be a
flying officer of the Nigerian Air force, using the Nigerian
Air Force Identity Card No. 19SVC: 19/21609 bearing your name
Ahmed Umar and obtained the sum of N300,000( Three Hundred
Thousand Naira) from one Caleb Ibrahim and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 321 of the Panel Code, Laws
of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990 and punishable
under section 324 of the same Act."
The defendant pleaded “not guilty” to the charge.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Maryam Hayatudden,
prayed the court to remand the defendant at a correctional facility
and set a date for trial.
Defence counsel, Larry Ademokoya, urged the court to grant the
defendant bail.
Justice Adeyemi Ajayi, adjourned the matter till August 15, 2022
for hearing on the bail application and remanded the defendant
in Kuje Custodial Centre.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arraigns-man-for-job-scam-in-abuja
**********************************
8 AUG 2022
EFCC Charges Parents To Be Role Models In Fight
Against Corruption
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has called
parents and guardians across the country to live exemplary lives
for them to be role models in the fight against corruption.
This charge was given in Abuja on Saturday, August 6, 2020 by
the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa at the 6th
Graduation/Speech and Prize Giving Ceremony of the students of
the Nature-Nurtured Basic Academy, Kuje, Abuja.
Bawa frowned at parents' involvement, facilitation and commission
of economic and financial crimes by their children, in the guise
of following the norms of the society and helping them make it
in life, stressing that every compromise of right values in
children is endorsement of anti-social behaviours.
The EFCC boss, who spoke through Superintendent of the EFCC,
SE Martha Ojochokutami Eche, gave examples of some corrupt
practices among children as internet fraud, examination fraud,
impersonation, advance fee fraud and others and advised them
to desist from them, urging the family and school systems
not to create an environment for students to be corrupt or
become comfortable with corrupt practices.
Responding, Director of Studies of the school, Bethel Ojobor,
expressed appreciation to the EFCC and promised to make the
school a breeding ground for anti-corruption soldiers. The
Representative of the EFCC Chairman presented awards to teachers
and students who exhibited acts of integrity within the session
for their bold stance against corruption. Students also had an
interactive session answering questions on corruption and
showcasing their understanding of the effects of economic and
financial crimes on the society.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-charges-parents-to-be-role-models-in-fight-against-corruption
*************************************
8 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 47 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested forty seven
(47) suspected internet fraudsters (aka Yahoo Boys). They were
arrested in the early hours of Thursday, August 4, 2022 in a
sting operation at various locations in Port Harcourt, Rivers
State.
The suspects include: Onome Omavuebe Stansley, Progress Ikechukwu,
Fejiro Oyawiri, Ifeanyi Louis, Joseph Monday, Ikegwuolu Wogbuom,
Chimobi Henry, Victory Erebere, Chiwendu Lucky, Jasson Ovesuor,
Miracle Harrison, Favour Prosper Iheancho, Emeji Gad Chinedu,
Perculia Ikechukwu, Eze Gift, Chiemela Uzodinma, Chidebere Eze,
Bright Umoh, Raphael Akuru, Prince Chris, Hillary Ifeanyi Nwosu,
and Destiny Ogueri.
Others are Terri Afori, Daniel Atuzie, Justice Nicholas, Victor
Nnemeka, Temitope Ezekiel, Anthony Otuke, Nelson Matthew, Adolphus
Iheanyi, Omosakin Akinwale, Royal Nicolas, Henry Anthony, Obi
Ezekiel, Gift Kalu, Nichael Emmanuel, Chukwuemeka Emeluwe, ThankGod
Emmanuel, Nicholas Chibueze, Azubueke Precious, Eze Promise,
Diamond Emesin, Tejiro Napoleon, Temple Alalibo, David Christian,
Idonesit Ekpo and Martin John Gospel.
They were arrested based on an intelligence report on their
alleged involvement in internet fraud.
Six (6) cars, different brands of phones, laptop computers,
still cameras and apple wrist watches were among items recovered
from the suspects.
They will soon be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-47-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcour
*******************************************
5 AUG 2022
N1.8bn Fraud: Court Adjourns Till September 13 for Judgment
The trial of the duo of Ogbor Eliot and Kelvin Chris for an
alleged N1.8 billion fraud before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo
of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos continued
on Friday, August 5, 2022 with the trial judge adjourning
till September 13, 2022 for judgement after the prosecution
and the defence adopted their final written addresses.
The Lagos Zonal Command of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, had on Monday, October 22, 2018, arraigned them on a five-count
charge bordering on conspiracy, forgery and obtaining by false pretence
to the tune of N1.8 billion.
They were charged alongside a company, Danium Energy Services Limited,
which they are accused to have used to fraudulently deceive Sterling
Bank Plc into lending them money through a fraudulent scheme with the
pretence to finance Local Purchase Order, LPO for 20,000 Metric Tonnes
of Automotive Gas Oil, AGO, for supply to Total Nigeria Limited.
One of the counts reads: "That you, Ogbor Kehinde Eliot, Kelvin Ejere
Chris and Danium Energy Services Ltd., sometime in February 2016 in
Lagos within the Lagos Judicial Division, with intent to defraud,
conspired amongst yourselves to obtain the sum of N1,820,496,000.00
(One Billion, Eight Hundred and Twenty Million, Four Hundred and
Ninety-Six Thousand Naira) by false pretence from Sterling Bank
Plc."
Another count reads: "That you, Ogbor Kehinde Eliot, Kelvin Ejere
Chris and Danium Energy Services Ltd, on or about 23rd of February
2016 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
with intent to defraud, induced Sterling Bank Plc to deliver to
Danium Energy Services Ltd the total sum of N1,820,496,000.00
(One Billion, Eight Thousand and Twenty Million, Four Hundred
and Ninety-Six Thousand Naira) under the false pretence that
Total Nigeria Plc vide Purchase Orders (PO) with Reference No.
OPS/SUP/02/16/330 and OPS/SUP/02/331 dated 3rd of February, 2016
contracted Danium Energy Services Ltd to supply 20,000 metric tons
of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in two tranches of 10,000 metric tons
each valued at the aggregate sum of N2,328,000,000.00 (Two Billion,
Three Hundred and Twenty-Eight Million Naira) and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 1(b) of the Advance Fee
Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable
under Section 1(3) of the same Act."
They pleaded "not guilty" to the charges when they were arraigned.
At today’s proceeding, both the counsel for the first, second and
third defendants adopted their various final written addresses and
unanimously prayed the court to discharge and acquit their respective
clients, as they urged the court to hold that the prosecution has
not proven the case against them.
Adopting the prosecution's final written address in response to
those of the defence, the prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo,
urged the court to dismiss the arguments of the defence has
lacking in merit and to convict them as charged.
"The case against the defendants before your lordship is such
that it is visible to the blind and audible to the deaf," he said.
Oyedepo further urged the court to take cognisance of the fact
that the defendants created an impression that Total Nigeria Plc
issued to the defendants local purchase order reference numbers
330 and 331 for the supply of AGO.
He said: "These two local purchase orders, gave the impression
that Total Nigeria Plc contracted the third defendant to supply
to it 10,000 metric tons per each of those LPOs for a particular
sum.
"And so, the third defendant, armed with these LPOs, contracted
Sterling Bank Plc to finance the purported documents emanating
from Total."
He further noted that the first defendant,
was shown by the prosecution is the alter ego of the third
defendant.
He further added in order to effectively perpetrate the alleged
fraud the defendants further forged other documents to deceive
the bank into facilitating the said LPOs.
He added that in the course of proving its case, the prosecution
was able to show documents, in which Total Nigeria Plc refuted
that the said LPOs emanated from it.
"The prosecution has shown to my lord the LPOs that were forged,
and the original of the documents which Total said that the
referenced documents in contention were not issued to the third
defendant," he said.
He therefore urged the court to hold that the prosecution
effectively proved the case of conspiracy, forgery, and
obtaining by false pretence.
After listening to all the parties, Justice Taiwo adjourned
the matter till September 13, 2020 "for judgement".
The press release contains photos:
n1-8bn-fraud-court-adjourns-till-september-13-for-judgment
********************************************
5 AUG 2022
EFCC Upgrades Eagle Eye App
In an attempt to improve the effectiveness of its pioneering
online economic and financial crimes reporting application,
the Eagle Eye App, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has introduced new features, including an interactive
component that addresses the needs of anonymous users seeking
updates on their petitions or reports.
With the new feature, all that is required for an anonymous
petitioner to follow up on a petition is to save the Report
ID, then click on Case Update and input the Report ID, which
will automatically redirect you to a Chat Screen to either
send additional messages or read messages sent by the EFCC
regarding your report.
The Eagle Eye App which was launched on July 14, 2021 is part
of the Executive Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa’s vision of intelligence
driven investigation and prosecution of economic and financial crimes.
With the application, complainants can report cases from any part of
the world in line with the Proceeds of Crime Act 2022 with full assurance
of secrecy and anonymity.
Eagle Eye App is available on Apple store and Google play store.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-upgrades-eagle-eye-app
*********************************
5 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 5 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Makurdi
The operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, August 5,
2022, arrested five (5) suspected internet fraudsters in
Makurdi, Benue State.
The suspects are Adipe Philip, Akpa Allenxander, Andrew Odokor,
Ishegbe Samuel and Peter Ajine.
They were arrested in a sting operation in Makurdi following
credible intelligence on their alleged involvement in Internet
fraud.
The items recovered from them include, 2 Hp laptops, 7 mobile
phones, power bank, charms and several incriminating documents.
The suspects will be charged to Court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-5-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
******************************************
5 AUG 2022
Court Convicts Daniel for impersonation
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction of one Daniel Bala
Adambu before Justice A. A Bello on one count charge of fraudulent
impersonation.
The charge reads; "That you, Daniel Bala Adambu ( aka Doctor Mark)
on or about the 5th of July, 2022 at New Romi Extension, Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, impersonated one doctor
on Gmail chatting platform when you made a misrepresentation to one
Yvonne Detwiler McCaferry to part with her money to enable you buy a
gift card for your daughter and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 142 (1) of the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State 2017 and
punishable under the same Law".
He pleaded guilty to the charge. In view of his plea, the prosecuting
counsel, Moses Arumemi, urged the court to convict the defendant accordingly.
Justice Bello convicted and sentenced the defendant to a fine of N150,000.
He is also to forfeit his iPhone 13 Pro Max to the Federal Government.
Daniel, a member of a syndicate operating under a code name "Hustling
Kingdom" was arrested at their hideout in the New Romi Extension and
Kudenda axis of Kaduna State.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
court-convicts-daniel-for-impersonation
**************************************
5 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests Six Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Benin
Zonal Command, on Thursday August 4, 2022 arrested six suspected
internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.
The suspects, Thomas Osigbemen, Kennedy Uwuigbe, Osameda Osazee,
Enofe Macaulay, Wilfred Ikhireagie and Osayande Prosper, were arrested
at their hideout based on actionable intelligence on their alleged
criminal activities.
Items recovered from the suspects are phones, laptops and cars - 2
Lexus RX350, 2 Lexus E5 330, Mercedes Benz GLK 350, Mercedes Benz CLA
250, Toyota 4 Runner, Toyota Corolla and Toyota Avensis
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned
in court soon.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-six-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
****************************************
5 AUG 2022
One Bags 14 Years imprisonment as EFCC Secures 14 Convictions
for Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction and sentencing of
14 persons before Justices Darius Khobo and A.A Bello of the
Kaduna State High Court on charges of impersonation, Internet
and cybercrime.
The convicts are Hammed Olamilekan (aka James Wright), Shina
Victor (aka Alecia Moore Pink), Isaac Garba Amos (aka Jeong Ho),
AbdulSalam Isiaka (aka. America Smith), Ahmed AbdulRazak (aka
Romilda Carlos), Nnabuihe Micheal ( aka Wayne Henderson,Leonard
Maxine, Alex issued Lea and Deanne Manly), Bemu Edward David
(aka Mike Alexander Valencia), Bemu Eric Praise (aka Lila Anderson),
Destiny Maikarfi (aka Dfb-Hack and Rockunlockz), Paul Adebayo,
Ambrose Eden Onyemaechi (aka Hugh Jackman), Kamaldeen Abdullahi
(aka Amelia Ralf), Collins Mitchell Ojonye (aka Derrick Richie)
and Jeremiah Ogbe Emmanuel, Samuel Anakaa and Daniel Saka.
The defendants who were arrested at various hideouts around the
Barnawa, Gbagyi Villa, Unguwan Romi New Extension and Kudenda axis
of Kaduna were all found to have defrauded foreign nationals,
mostly American and Chinese, through phantom romantic relationships,
after assuming the identities of Hollywood celebrities, medical
personnel, computer engineer. The offence contravenes Section
142 (1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017 and Section 6
of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006.
They all pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against them
prompting the Prosecuting Counsel N.Salele, E.K Garba, M.E Eimonye,
M. Arumemi, YJ Matiyak, M. Lawal and PC. Onyeneho, to ask the courts
to convict the defendants accordingly.
While Hammed was convicted to 14 years imprisonment on two counts
without any option of fine, others were convicted and sentenced
to different years of imprisonment or fines. They are to forfeit
all the proceeds of crime which include phones, electronic gadgets,
furniture, kitchen equipment and monies to the Kaduna State and
Federal Government.
one-bags-14-years-imprisonment-as-efcc-secures-14-convictions-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
***************************************
5 AUG 2022
EFCC, US Train EFCC Operatives and Justice Ministry Officials
on Cybercrime Investigation, Prosecution
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in collaboration
with the US Department of Justice, DoJ, on Thursday, August 4, 2022
concluded a 4-day training progranme on cybercrime and crypto-currency
investigation for operatives of the Commission and staff of the Federal
Ministry of Justice at the EFCC Academy, Karu, Abuja.
The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, who was represented
by Deputy Commandant, Training, EFCC Academy, Assistant Commander of EFCC,
ACE Babashani Umar Sanda, said the programme was designed to improve the
synergy between the Commission and the Ministry of Justice and expose the
participants to current trends in cybercrime investigation and prosecution.
Anand Ramaswamy, Attorney, U.S. Department of Justice and a resource person
at the programme, said the essence of the training is to improve the capacity
of the investigators and prosecutors in case building and prosecution with a
view to achieving convictions and denying criminals the benefits of their
proceeds of crime. "What we hope to gain is to build the skills of investigators
and prosecutors so they can bring good cases to Court, get convictions and
deny the criminal’s the opportunity to enjoy the proceeds of their crime," he
said.
Deputy Director, Federal Ministry of Justice, Terlumun George-Maria Tyendezwa
said the training will ensure greater synergy and cooperation between investigators
and prosecutors. "We also expect that there is going to be an understanding of the
methods and tools that will allow investigators to get the requisite electronic
evidence and subscriber information they need from service providers to carry on
their investigations. Of course, the bottom line is that this will translate into
a better investigation and prosecution," he said.
The Officers were exposed to various topics such as introduction to cybercrime,
gathering of electronic evidence, open source intelligence, crypto currency and
dark web, developing strategies of prosecuting cybercrime cases, etc.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-us-train-efcc-operatives-and-justice-ministry-officials-on-cybercrime-investigation-prosecution
*********************************************
4 AUG 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on August 4, 2022 secured the conviction of
Awopetu Gbolahan Emmanuel and Johnbull Kingsley before Justice
M. Itsueli of the Edo State High Court, Benin City.
Kingsley was arraigned on one count charge of possession of
documents containing false pretenses and misrepresentation,
while Emmanuel was arraigned for making false statement to
an officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The charge against Kingsley reads: "that you, Johnbull Kingsley
on the 23rd day of May, 2022 in Benin, Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud
did knowingly have in your possession documents containing false
pretenses and misrepresentation and thereby committed an offence
contrary to section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under the section 8
read together with section 1(3) of the same Act".
The charge against Emmanuel reads: “that you, Awopetu Gbolahan
Emmanuel on or about the 8th day of June, 2022 at No 1 Court
Road, GRA Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable court did make statement in writing which you knew
to be false to an officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission in the course of his duties as an officer of the
Commission and thereby committed an offence contrary to section
39(2)(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
( Establishment) Act, 2004 and punishable under section 39(2)
(b) of the same Act".
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective counts
prompting the prosecution counsel, I.M. Elodi to pray the
court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendants, A.S. Akinfolarin pleaded with
the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants
have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Emmanuel to two years
imprisonment while Kingsley bagged one year imprisonment. The
judge also ordered the forfeiture of the defendants’ phones,
wristwatches and laptops, being proceeds of crime to the Federal
Government of Nigeria through the EFCC.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin
*********************************************
4 AUG 2022
EFCC Warns Real Estate Operators on Fraudulent Use of Premises
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has warned
real estate operators, landlords and property managers in the
country to desist from renting out, leasing or selling properties
to individuals that do not comply with the "Know Your Customer",
KYC policy.
This warning was given in Ibadan on July 30, 2022 by the Ibadan
Zonal Commander of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC,
ACE Kanu Idagu while addressing a Town Hall meeting with members
of the Kolapo Ishola Government Reservation Area, GRA, Residents
Association, held at Rolat Event Centre, Akobo, Ibadan, Oyo State.
According to him, "one major regulatory concept that was set up
by the government to uphold and maintain the standard of conducting
business and sanitizing the economy is the concept of KYC and it
simply means Know Your Customer. This has become a regulatory mandate,
which requirement is not only limited to the private sector but to
all sectors of the Nigerian economy with the primary objective of
mitigating fraud".
Idagu, who spoke through Head, Extractive Industry Fraud Section,
EIFS, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Oluwasegun Oloruntuyi
stressed the need for real estate operators to verify, monitor
and report any suspicious activities in their premises to the
Commission as this will help curb and combat all fraud schemes,
money laundering and terrorism financing.
He further reiterated the stance of the Executive Chairman of
the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa regarding the use of premises for
fraudulent activities, stressing that the law shall take its
course whenever individuals fail to comply with Section 3 of
the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006,
which states that, "a person who, being the occupier or is
concerned in the management of any premises, causes or knowingly
permits the premises to be used for any purpose which constitutes
an offence under this Act commits an offence and is liable on
conviction to imprisonment for a term of not more than 15 years
and not less than 5 years without the option of a fine".
Idagu commended the Association for its deliberate efforts
and role played in sensitizing and enlightening the public
on the fight against corruption. The EFCC, he says, is aware
"of the role played by the real estate operators and property
managers as major stakeholders in the fight against crimes
and corruption. Hence, it is crucial to further collaborate
in creating more awareness and enlightenment campaigns on
the positive roles expected from every Nigerian".
Responding, Chairman of the Association, Barrister Olalekan
Thanni thanked the EFCC for gracing the event, while emphasizing
the commitment of his members to ensure that the government has
adequate information on every citizen who resides in Nigeria.
"The synergy between the Association and the EFCC will help
reduce crime rate and make the Commission a pacesetter", he said.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-warns-real-estate-operators-on-fraudulent-use-of-premises
**************************************
4 AUG 2022
EFCC Nabs 'Yahoo Corps Member', Two Others
Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested one Adetuberu
Christopher Adetoyese, a corps member currently serving in
Ogbomosho, Oyo State over offences bordering on cyber-fraud
in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Adetuberu, 28, who hails from Ilesha, Ilesha West Local Government
Area of Osun State was arrested at Ogele area of Eyenkorin, Ilorin.
The suspect’s arrest followed credible intelligence on the activities
of fraudsters otherwise known as "Yahoo-Yahoo Boys" within Ilorin
metropolis and its environs.
Items recovered from the suspect at the point of arrest include
a Lexus Car with registration number RBC 126 BJ, Laptop, iPhone
11 Pro Max and Samsung S9 Plus.
In the course of investigation, Adetuberu revealed that he
ventured into 'Yahoo Yahoo Business' in 2016 and had among
other things built a house and sponsored himself in school
with the proceeds of the illegal activities.
The operatives of the EFCC, in another operation also arrested
two other suspected fraudsters at different locations within
Ilorin metropolis.
The suspects are Muhammed Soliu from Woru, Ilorin East local
Government Area, Kwara State and Olayiwola Tunde Saheed, an
aluminum fabricator from Olorunda, Oshogbo Local Government
Area of Osun State.
Upon interrogation, Muhammed, 25, confessed that he joined
'Yahoo-Yahoo business' in 2020 and specialized in dating/love
scam. According to him, he had bought a Toyota Camry car with
registration number KSF 846 HG worth N2.7million and built
a house with the proceeds of the illegal activities,
In the same token, Olayiwola, 30, who claimed to be a 'Loader'
in the 'Yahoo-Yahoo business' confessed to have bought a Toyota
Camry car worth over N2million with the proceeds of the alleged
crime.
The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of the
ongoing investigations.
efcc-nabs-yahoo-corps-member-two-others
***************************************
3 AUG 2022
Cybercrime: Court Convicts One in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, July 29, 2022 secured the conviction
and sentencing of one Olaniyi Roqueeb Ajibola before Justice
Bayo Taiwo of the State High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State
on one count charge which bordered on impersonation, an offence
contrary to Section 484 and 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38,
Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
Upon his arraignment, he pleaded "guilty" to the charge filed
against him by the EFCC.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel reviewed the facts
of the case, tendered both the confessional statements and documents
recovered from the defendant and urged the court to convict and
sentence him as charged.
Justice Taiwo, taking into account the evidence presented
against the defendant, convicted and sentenced Olaniyi to
six months community service. He was ordered to restitute
his victim and forfeit all recovered items to the Federal
Government.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
cybercrime-court-convicts-one-in-ibadan
******************************************
3 AUG 2022
EFCC Convicts Electrician for Romance Scam
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC Wednesday, August 3, 2022, secured the conviction
of one Shittu Taiwo before Justice Darius Khobo on a one count
charge.
The charge reads; "That you, Shittu Taiwo (aka York Exchange)
between June and July, 2022 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, attempted to commit an offence and
in such an attempt did a certain act towards the Commission
of the said offence, to wit; falsely presented yourself as
York Exchange ( a white woman) to several unsuspecting victims
on several online social media applications in order to cheat
them and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
57 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law of 2017 and punishable
under Section 309 of the same Law".
He pleaded guilty to the charge, prompting the prosecution
counsel, M.E Eimonye, to ask the court to convict the defendant
accordingly. Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced the defendant
to 5 years imprisonment with an option of fine of N100, 000,00.
He is also to forfeit his Nokia G10 Android phone to the Federal
Government.
The 35-year- old married man with two wives and three kids,
got into trouble for impersonating a female foreigner on
social media in an attempt to lure unsuspecting white men
into romantic relationships with a view to defrauding them
of their hard-earned money.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
efcc-convicts-electrician-for-romance-scam
*************************************
3 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 17 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, August
2, 2022, arrested 17 suspected internet fraudsters.
The suspects are Ogunnowo Aderosola, Adebesin Adeyinka,
Nkeokelonye Stanley Ifeanyi, Afolabi Babatunde Oluwaseun,
Onyeka Nwokoro, Micheal Adedayo Owolabi, Musah Esosa
Hakeem, Osim Happiness, Sanusi Timilehin Olawale, Sanusi
Timilehin Rasak, Emmanuel Obogo Adeja, Ogunnowo Eniola,
Idahosa Samuel Osas, Alabi Ajekola Peter, Timilehin
Damilola Emmanuel, Egbuno Ifeanyi Favour and Jimoh
Oluwapelumi Ibrahim.
They were arrested in a sting operation at Kay-Farm Estate,
Ishaga axis of Lagos State following credible intelligence
on the activities of members of an Organised Cybercrime
Syndicate Network who are into internet fraud.
Various items such as cars, mobile devices, and laptops
were recovered upon their arrest.
The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion
of the investigation.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-17-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
*************************************
2 AUG 2022
Josiah Bags Five Months Jail term for Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC today, August 2, 2022, secured the conviction
of one Samuel Josiah before Justice Darius Khobo on one count
charge of criminal impersonation.
The charge reads, "That you, Samuel Josiah (aka Katherine Sophia)
sometime in November, 2021 in Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, did commit an offence to wit; cheating by impersonation
wherein you falsely represented yourself as Katherina Sophia ( a female
citizen of the United State of America) and in such assumed identity
induced unsuspecting members of the public to part with $500 USD
( Five Hundred United States Dollars) and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law,
2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law".
He pleaded guilty to the charge. In view of his plea, the prosecution
counsel, N. Salele, urged the court to convict the defendant accordingly.
Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced the defendant to 5 months imprisonment
without an option of fine.
Josiah's journey to prison began when he was arrested in a sting operation
in the Gbagyi Villa axis of Kaduna, after intelligence reports linked him
to a syndicate of internet fraudsters. Upon arrest, several incriminating
materials were found on him.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
josiah-bags-five-months-jail-term-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
****************************************
1 AUG 2022
N2.9m Fraud: Courts Admits Evidence Against Defendant,
Adjourns Till August 16
The trial of one Ladeji Babatunde before Justice Oluwatoyin
Taiwo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos
for offence bordering on obtaining money by false pretence
to the tune of N2.9 million continued on Monday, August 1,
2022 with the trial judge delivering ruling on his trial-within
-trial as the court admit in evidence the statement of the
defendant.
Babatunde who was first arraigned in December 2021, is
being prosecuted by the EFCC on a four-count charge.
One of the counts reads: "Ladeji Kelvin Babatunde on or
about 19th - 22nd February 2021 at Lagos within the Ikeja
Judicial Division of this Honourable Court with intent
to defraud obtained the sum of N1,500,000 (One Million
Five Hundred Thousand Naira) only from one Chijioke
Mmadubue and his syndicate of internet fraudsters based
at Chevron axis of Lekki, Lagos under the false pretence
that you will protect them from arrest by the operatives
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
which representation you knew to be false."
Another count reads: "Ladeji Kelvin Babatunde on or about
18th March 2021 at Lagos within the Ikeja Judicial Division
of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud obtained
the sum of N800,000 (Eight Hundred Thousand Naira) only
from one Jacob, an internet fraudster under the false
pretence that you will help with his case at office of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) which
representation you knew to be false."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges
In the course of the trial, when the prosecuting counsel,
Nnaemeka Omewa, sought to tender in evidence the statement
of the defendant through the prosecution's witness, Bot
Dachung Toma, the defence raised objection arguing that
the statement was made involuntarily.
The objection necessitated the need for a trial within trial.
Delivering ruling on the trial-within-trial, Justice Taiwo
held that "no act of torture was established".
The court thereafter admitted the statement as Exhibit C1
to C13 as the EFCC closed its case against the defendants
Continuing with his testimony, Toma, told the court that
the EFCC received a petition against the defendant alleging
that he was going about posing as an official of the EFCC
and using the guise to extort money from suspected internet
fraudsters.
"We investigated the petition and found out that he was
actually impersonating EFCC officials and going around the
city collecting money that he will help them not to get
arrested," he said.
He further testified that money was traced to his bank
account, and that it is believed that the extorted funds
formed part of the money he used to build a house in Ogun
State.
The prosecution thereafter closed its case.
The matter has been adjourned till August 16, 2022 for
defence to open its case.
The press release contains a photo:
n2-9m-fraud-courts-admits-evidence-against-defendant-adjourns-till-august-16
********************************************
1 AUG 2022
Fake American Actor, Five Others Sent to Jail in Benin
for Internet Fraud
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court sitting
in Benin City on Monday, August 1, 2022, convicted and sentenced
six internet fraudsters to jail for fraud.
The convicts are Emejom Jude Chinomso, Okolie Collins, Hezekiah
Oghenekume, Musa Dauda, Akinselure Adebayo and Obafemi Oluwatosin.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of EFCC on separate
one count charges bordering on impersonation, intent to defraud
and making false statements to the EFCC.
The charge against Akinselure Adebayo reads: "that you, Akinselure
Adebayo on or about the 8th day of June, 2022 at No 1 Court Road,
GRA Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did make false statement in writing to an officer of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in the course of his
duties as an officer of the Commission as to the ownership of a
2008 Toyota Camry with registration number: ABU 219 GF which you
knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to
section 39(2)(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
( Establishment ) Act, 2004 and punishable under section 39 (2)
(b) of the same Act".
The charge against Okolie Collins reads: "that you, Okolie Collins
between 2020 and 2021 in Abudu, Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent
yourself to be Alex Lougwin, an actor and American citizen on
Facebook platform and thereby committed an offence contrary to
and punishable under section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap
48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State)
1976".
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against
them by the EFCC prompting the prosecution, Francis Jirbo, I. N.
Elodi and K. U. Udus to pray the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants, Emmanuel Okorie, pleaded
with the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants
have been remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponwonoba convicted and sentenced Collins and Chinomso
to two years imprisonment with option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira
and Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine respectively.
The duo of Adebayo and Dauda bagged one year imprisonment with
an option of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira fine
Oghenekume was sentenced to two years imprisonment with an option
of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira fine while Emmanuel got
one year imprisonment or a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira
The judge also ordered that a 2008 Toyota Camry car recovered
from Adebayo be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Other items including mobile phones and Laptop computers recovered
from the defendants are also to be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria. The defendants are to undertake in writing to be of good
behaviour henceforth.
The press release contails photos of the 419ers:
fake-american-actor-five-others-sent-to-jail-in-benin-for-internet-fraud
****************************************
1 AUG 2022
EFCC Arrests 24 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested 24 suspected
internet fraudsters.
The suspects are, Kelvin Essen, Michael Ekene, Steve Ochanogor,
Olatujoye Samuel, Ohaeme Samuel , George Emeka , Adenigbo Igbola,
Famugiloh Hakeem, Samuel Elohor , Michael Ugochukwu, Olumide
Olalekan, Ayomipo David, Adulawo Oladipupo Victor and Okenwa
Emeka Okobi.
Others include Adeyanju Olamide Blessing, Temi Simon, Elias
Andrew Ogbe, Elvis Akuya, Onyebuchi Chisom, Abraham Nnana,
Nwune Fortune, Golden Felix, Azeez Ola and Sushi Christian.
They were arrested on July 28, 202,2 at Silver Spring Estate,
Agungi, Lagos following credible intelligence on the activities
of some members of an Organized Cybercrime Network who are into
computer-related fraud.
Upon their arrest, exotic cars, mobile devices and laptops
were recovered from them.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
efcc-arrests-24-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
*********************************
1 AUG 2022
Nine Convicted for Cyber-fraud in Ibadan
An Oyo State High Court, Ibadan on Friday, July 29, 2022 convicted
and sentenced nine cybercriminals to six months community service
each for impersonation and obtaining by false pretence, contrary
to Section 484 and 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of
Oyo State, 2000.
The convicts are Lateef Adedeji Sulaiman, Iliasu Azeez Olajuwon,
Adebanji Ayomide Idowu, Joseph Timileyin Evbosaru, Ademola Azeez
Taiwo, Hassan Warith Ademola, Idowu Babatunde Awojulu, Olagoke
Olalekan Bayo and Victor John Enya.
Upon their arraignments on one count charge each before Justice
Bayo Taiwo, they all pleaded “guilty” to the charges filed against
them by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
In view of their pleas, prosecution Counsel, Chidi Okoli and
Shamsuddeen Bashir prayed the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced them to
six months community service each.
Also, the court ordered the convicts to restitute their various
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
nine-convicted-for-cyber-fraud-in-ibadan
**********************************
29 JUL 2022
EFCC Return N3.7m to UK-Based Fraud Victim
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has returned
a sum of N3.7million recovered from fraudsters to the victim,
72-year-old Ms Judith Edewor who is based in the United Kingdom.
Making the presentation on Thursday July 28, 2022, in Benin, Edo
State, the Zonal Commander, Usman Muktar, said, "The Commission
will continue to discharge its duties professionally, ensure that
fraudsters are brought to book and victims of fraud are restituted
where possible".
A draft of N2 million was presented to John Uwanogho, brother
to Edewor. The Commission had earlier presented a draft of
N1.7million to the victim.
The Zonal Commander who was represented by Usman Zakari, Head,
Bank Fraud Section, said the Commission will not rest on its
laurels in its efforts to rid the society of fraudsters.
Uwanogho commended the Commission for bringing succour to his
sister.
Edewor was defrauded after she joined a religious group which
claimed it was into charity through social media. She was later
hoodwinked into sending money for a non-existent investment scheme.
The retiree said she was pressured to borrow £4000 to add to
the £1000 she had saved, which she sent to the fake charity.
Investigation revealed that the fraudster who presented 'herself'
as a prophetess in order to defraud Edewor, turned out to be a man.
He has confessed to the crime and would be arraigned in court soon.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-return-n3-7m-to-uk-based-fraud-victim
419 Coalition comment: We love press releases that cover victims
being verifiably restitited their losses.
***********************************
29 JUL 2022
Internet Fraud: Two Kwara Workers in Trouble
over Disappearance of Defendants
Two employees of Kwara State Government, Adenigba M. Olusola,
an employee of the State Judicial Service Commission and Bisiriyu
Abdulfatai, a staff of the State Universal Basic Education Board
(SUBEB), who stood as sureties for suspects being investigated
by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, for internet- related fraud offences have
incurred the wrath of the Court over their failure to produce
the suspects for trial.
Adenigba stood as surety for one Amaechi Umenye and Adeyemi
Adedeji, while Bisiriyu stood for Dawodu Olusoji. The two
civil servants had made an undertaking to produce the defendants
who are now at large each time they were needed by the anti-graft
agency.
The trio of Amaechi, Adeyemi and Dawodu were amongst the thirty
suspected internet fraudsters arrested in Offa, Offa Local
Government Area of Kwara State sometime in 2020 by the EFCC
for alleged internet fraud.
As investigations progressed in the matter, both Adenigba and
Bisiriyu wrote separate bail applications to the Ilorin Zonal
Commander of the EFCC, entered bail bonds and promised to produce
the defendants anytime their attention was needed.
The suspects after their release, jumped the administrative bail
granted them by the Commission while the sureties also could not
produce them.
Consequently, the Commission approached Justice Adenike Akinpelu
of the Kwara State High Court for the sureties to show cause why
the bail bond should not be forfeited or the sureties committed
to prison.
Delivering ruling on the applications on Thursday, July 28, 2022,
Justice Akinpelu agreed with the submission of the EFCC lawyers -
Sesan Ola and Andrew Akoja that the two Kwara Civil Servants should
forfeit their bail bond.
The court ordered Adenigba (surety to Amaechi) to forfeit the
recognizance of N5million and remit the sum of N4.5million thereon,
but pay the sum of N500,000 within 3 months or be committed to six
months in prison in the event he failed to pay the said sum .
On Adeyemi’s case, the Judge ordered Adenigba to forfeit the
recognizance of N1million and remit the sum of N750, 000 thereon,
but pay the sum of N250,000 within three months or be committed
to prison for five months in the event he failed to pay the said
sum.
For Bisiriyu, who stood as surety for Dawodu, Justice Akinpelu
ordered the surety to forfeit the recognizance of N3million and
remit the sum of N2million thereon, while he was ordered to pay
N1million within three months or be committed to six months in
prison in the event he failed to pay the said sum.
The press release includes photos:
internet-fraud-two-kwara-workers-in-trouble-over-disappearance-of-defendants
****************************************
29 JUL 2022
EFCC Nails 9 Cyber Fraud Suspect in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC Abuja Zonal Command, have arrested 9 suspected internet
fraudsters. They are Kalu Kennedy Ndukwe, Onyenso Emmanuel,
Richard Yakubu, Haruna Abubukar, Peter Ukabam, Godwin Peters,
Usman Garba Haruna, Nwani Chukwuma and Kabiru Shehu.
The suspects were arrested today, July 28, 2022, at FO1 Area
of Kubwa, Abuja following intelligence reports on their alleged
criminal activities.
Various items were recovered from the suspects including
laptops and phones.
They will be charged to court once investigations are
concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-nails-9-cyber-fraud-suspect-in-abuja
*******************************************
28 JUL 2022
EFCC Arrests 13 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 13 suspected
internet fraudsters. They were nabbed in the early hours of
Thursday, July 28, 2022, in a sting operation at various locations
in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Thirteen (13) suspects are: Austin Fama, Victor Lucky, Victor
Apugo, Emeka Chukwu, Tariesi Ego, Best Okon Akpan, Kenneth Ekeke,
Divine Umoh, Abasii Bianuake, Life Attai, Daniel Assor, Orji
Michael Kelechi and John Amadi.
Their arrests followed actionable intelligence received by the
Commission on their alleged involvement in internet fraud.
Items recovered from them include cars, mobile phones of different
brands, ATM Cards and Laptop computers.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is
concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-13-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcourt
*****************************************
28 JUL 2022
23 Internet Fraud Suspects Nabbed in Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested twenty three
(23) suspected internet fraudsters. They were arrested on
July 27, 2022 at different locations in Enugu State on the
strength of intelligence reports linking them to various
internet related fraud.
The suspects include Onwe Nnaemeka Caleb, Onwe Onyekachi
Prince, Chukwuma Boniface, Chika Eze, Eze Ambrose, Ogbodo
Chisom Francis, Elochukwu Nkemakolam, Collins Igiliegbe
Chizoba, Johnbosco Onyedika Ilechukwu, Okeke Michael,
Mamus Rex Brume, Obidinma Henry Ogboke, Ozoeze Henry
Amobi and George Onovo.
Others are: Kenechukwu ThankGod, Albert Nkemakolam, John
Elechukwu, Ifeanyi Miracle Egbo, Umunnakwe Tobias Uchenna,
Collins Okolo Tochukwu,Lucky Ekeh Chinedu and Emmanuel
Chiemenie.
Items recovered from them include one Toyota Camry car
with registration number: ENU-980-HM, one Mercedes Benz
E350 with registration number: BBG-988-AE, one Mercedes
Benz C300 with registration number: UWN-316, a Toyota
with registration number: UWN-312-GU, one Toyota Corolla
with registration number: UWN 77399, one Lexus with
registration number: ENU -664-TT, several mobile phones
and laptops.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
23-internet-fraud-suspects-nabbed-in-enugu
******************************************
27 JUL 2022
Court Jails Undergraduate 12months for Cheating,
Personation in Kwara
Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court
sitting in Ilorin on Wednesday, July 27, 2022 convicted
a 23-year-old student of Federal University of Technology,
FUT, Minna, Niger State, one Mohammed Bello, for offences
bordering on cheating by personation.
Bello, who claimed to hail from Ilorin West Local Government
Area of Kwara State allegedly posed as a white female with
intent to defraud unsuspecting victims
The defendant was prosecuted on two-count charge by the
Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
On April 22, 2022, the EFCC while acting on credible
intelligence arrested Bello alongside other suspected
fraudsters at Agric Estate, Sango area of Ilorin, Kwara
State.
The defendant did not only admitted to committing the
crime, but pleaded guilty to the charge upon arraignment.
Following his guilty plea, counsel to the EFCC, Andrew Akoja,
reviewed the facts of the case through a witness, an operative
of the Commission who tendered the extra-judicial statements
of the defendant, one apple iPhone Xr and fraudulent messages
printed from his device.
Akoja urged the court to hold that the prosecution had
established the necessary ingredients of the alleged crime
against the defendant to warrant his conviction.
Justice Akinpelu, while relying on the evidence before the
court said that she was convinced that the prosecution had
proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and pronounced Bello
guilty of the offence.
Consequently, the judge sentenced the defendant to six-months
imprisonment with N150,000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira
Only) as option of fine on count one and six months imprisonment
with N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) as option of fine
on count two.
Additionally, Justice Akinpelu ordered the forfeiture of the
apple iPhone Xr, which was used to perpetrate the crime and
the sum of $25 (Twenty-Five United States Dollars) which the
convict benefited from the unlawful activities to the Federal
Government.
court-jails-undergraduate-12months-for-cheating-personation-in-kwara
***************************************
26 JUL 2022
EFCC Arrests Six Internet Fraud Suspects in Benue
Operatives of the Economic and Financial crimes Commission,
EFCC, Enugu Zonal Command on Saturday, July 23,2022, arrested
six suspected internet fraudsters at Amichi Hotel in Orokam,
Benue State .
The suspects are: Idoko Emmanuel Ofu, Abbah Ogbaah, Idoko
James Peter, Aduma James Oche, Ito James and Atayi Daniel.
They were nabbed following intelligence reports on their
alleged cybercrime activities.
Items recovered from them include two Mercedes Benz GLK 350,
one Mercedes Benz C300, several mobile phones, one international
passport and one Apple laptop.
Preliminary investigations carried out by the EFCC linked two
semi detached duplexes in a private estate at Life Camp, Abuja
worth over Fifty-Six Million Naira (N56, 000,000) to two of
the suspects.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is completed.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-six-internet-fraud-suspects-in-benue
********************************************
26 JUL 2022
EFCC Arrests Suspected Yahoo-Yahoo Boys in Makurdi
The operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, July 26,
2022, arrested two (2) suspected internet fraudsters known
as Yahoo-Yahoo Boys, in Makurdi, Benue State.
The suspects are Ikenna Ojobeagu, 22 and Martins Ezeorah,
24, both from Igbo Etiti local Government Area of Enugu State.
The suspects who claimed they are sports betting agents,
were arrested following actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from them include one Lexus ES 350, 5
smartphone phones, 6 different types of laptop computers,
charms, 62 inches Hisense TV and several incriminating
documents.
The suspects will be arraigned in court as soon as the
investigations are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-suspected-yahoo-yahoo-boys-in-makurdi
********************************************
26 JUL 2022
Nasarawa Court Sends Five Yahoo Boys to Jail for Defrauding Foreigners
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC Abuja Zonal
Command has secured the conviction and sentencing of five internet
fraudsters before Justice N.I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court
sitting in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
The convicts are Francis Chukwuka Okwechime, Olaniyi Odunayo
Precious, Israel Stephen Auta, Oluwabori Azeez Rafiu and David
Stephen. They were convicted on one count charge each bordering
on internet related fraud.
Okwechime fraudulently impersonated one Joseph Michael, an
American soldier to defraud one Molly of $350 (Three Hundred
and Fifty United States Dollars), while Olaniyi sent electronic
messages with the intent to defraud one Samuel Mayona.
Similarly, Israel pretended to be Ivy Jordan, an American,
with the intent to defraud unsuspecting internet users while
Oluwabori, using various social media apps, impersonated John
Albert and Raymond Lee from Singapore to gain advantage to
himself. Just as Stephen impersonated one Major_hack007
with the intent to defraud innocent internet users.
They all pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them.
In view of their pleas, Justice Afolabi sentenced Olaniyi and
Stephen to two years imprisonment with the option of fine of
N150, 000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) and N200, 000
(Two Hundred Thousand Naira) respectively. Israel and Oluwabori
both bagged six months prison term and a fine of N50, 000
(Fifty Thousand Naira) each, while Okwechime was sentenced
to a fine of N100, 000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira).
The Court further ordered that Olaniyi forfeits the proceeds
of crime including an Infinix Note 10 mobile phone to the
Federal Government.
nasarawa-court-sends-five-yahoo-boys-to-jail-for-defrauding-foreigners
*****************************************
26 JUL 2022
Court Sends Internet Fraudster to Three Years Imprisonment in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on July 25, 2022, secured the conviction of
one Samson Shakore before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State
High Court, Benin City, Edo State.
Shakore was arraigned on one count charge of retaining the
proceeds of illegal conduct.
The charge against him reads: "that you, Samson Shakore sometime
between 1st January, 2018 to 31st December 2018 in Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did retain the aggregate
sum of Ninety-four Million, Fifty-five Thousand, Nine Hundred and
Forty-one Naira ( N94,055,941.00) in your Zenith bank account
no: 100592587 knowing that same represent proceeds of your criminal
conduct to wit: cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 17 (a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
(Establishment ) Act, 2004 and punishable under Section 17 (b)
of the same Act."
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge
prompting the prosecution counsel, I.K.Agwai, to ask the court
to convict and sentence him accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Shakore to three years
imprisonment with an option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine
The judge also ordered that the sum of N366,925.74 being balance
in his Zenith bank account be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria and that the account be closed. The defendant is also
to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-three-years-imprisonment-in-benin
**********************************************
25 JUL 2022
EFCC Secure 37 Internet Fraud Convictions in Enugu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in two
days, Tuesday July 19, 2022 and Thursday July 22, 2022, secured
thirty seven (37) internet fraud convictions. The convictions
were recorded by the Enugu Zonal Command before Justice I.M
Buba of the Federal High Court sitting in Enugu.
The convicts are: Uchechukwu Ani, Nnamdi Ugwu, Ikechukwu Emmanuel
Ebube, Chijioke Christian, Obaji Charles Imoke, Nwafor Victor
Somkenechukwu,Chibuzor Okeke, Samuel Great, Ukandu Benedict,
Augustine Akpos Austin, Chinwendu Okoh, Nnamdi Moses Tochukwu,
Eze Onyebuchi Hillary, Emmanuel Alex Akwakolam, Chiemerie Samuel,
Nwaojeh Emeka, Somtochi Collins Eze and Dike Emmanuel Chidiebere.
Others are: Chukwudi Okeke, Enete Ontekachi Gideon, Obeta Ifeanyi,
Utoatuonu Osita, Ejiofor Okwuchukwu, Somtochuchukwu Promise Ezeanyagu,
Ifeanyi Joseph Ikeh, Azuka Michael, Nnaemeka Ejebu, Edafe menford
Odio, Emmanuel Chika Eneanya, Markanthony Emeka Akabuike, Chinemerem
David Egwuatu, Arinze Maduka Samuel, Okeke Oluebube, Christian
Ifesinachi Okoye, Awanya Jidechukwu, Ugwuagbo Stephen Nnaemeka and
Obi Chinedu Edison.
They were prosecuted on separate one count charges bordering on
criminal impersonation and obtaining money under false pretences.
The charge against one of the convicts, Chibuzor Okeke, reads,
"That you, CHIBUZOR OKEKE sometime in July 2022 in Ifite Isu,
Anambra State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
impersonated by presenting yourself as Dolores, a Brazilian
woman who is a specialist in crypto currency investment to one
Zafar, a Turkish National on Telegram using your Redmi10s Phone
and by so doing did obtain the sum of ($1,500) One Thousand
Five Hundred American Dollars by false pretences and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22(3)(a)(b) and punishable
under Section 22(4) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention)
Act, 2015."
All the convicts pleaded guilty when the charges were read to them.
Justice Buba convicted and sentenced them to one year imprisonment
with an option of One Million Naira Fine each. The court ordered
that their mobile phones be sold and the proceeds remitted to the
Treasury Single Account of the Federal Government.
efcc-secure-37-internet-fraud-convictions-in-enugu
******************************************
25 JUL 2022
34 Internet Fraud Suspects Arrested in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 34 suspected
internet fraudsters. Twenty one of the suspects were arrested
today, Monday, July 25, 2022 in a sting operation at Apete
and Ijokodo areas of Ibadan, Oyo state.
The suspects include: Paul Uche Obinna, Ola Kareem, Dazumi
Hammed Adeiza, Olamilekan Gabriel Ahmed, Olowe Nifemi Michael,
Osisi Ikenna Nicholas, Dazumi Abdullahi Razak, Adejuyigbe
Abayomi Babatunde, Adesokan Afeez Afolabi, Tobiloba Joshua
Adejuyi, Dazumi Azeez Jayeola, Ayegbusi Olamilekan Micheal
and Mubarak Salaudeen Opeyemi.
Others are Ibrahim Muhammed Hassan, Salam Ademola Samson,
David Sunday Chukwudi, Kolapo Abdulrazak Seyi, Lawal Adesina
Sheriff, Faeji Tobiloba Raphael, Bello Ibrahim Damilola and
Abisoye Israel Olamilekan.
The remaining 13 suspects were arrested on Friday, July 22,
2022, at Airport Road, Alakia and Ologuneru, Ibadan.
The suspects are Salami Ayo Wisdom, Afeez Sode Gbolahan,
Abdulkadiri Ojo Adams, Awe Olabiyi Omotayo, Adeniyi Auwal
Tomiwa, Abudu Olamiotan Sunday, Ayomide Adeniyi Surajudeen.
Others are: Olasunkanmi Quadri Adewale, Oladotun Kunle Tijani,
Adekunle Damilare Elijah, Abudu Kayode Donald, Eyinla Temitayo
Emmanuel and Adekunle Imole Ayo.
Among the recovered items are exotic cars, laptops, different
brands of mobile phones and several fraudulent documents.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the
investigation is completed.
34-internet-fraud-suspects-arrested-in-ibadan
****************************************
25 JUL 2022
Yahoo Boy Bags 2Years Jail Term in Nasarawa
Justice N.I Afolabi of the Federal High Court sitting in Lafia,
Nasarawa State, on Friday, July 22, 2022, convicted and sentenced
one Okoha Chinedu Charles to two years imprisonment for fraudulent
impersonation.
Chinedu, 25, who hails from Ebonyi State representing himself as
a military personnel serving in Yemen and used a Thai and Spanish
language translation app to chat with Thai women with the intent
to defraud them.
He was prosecuted on one count charge by the Makurdi Zonal Command
of the EFCC.
The charge reads: "That you, Okoha Chinedu Charles "M" sometime
in December, 2021 in Makurdi, Benue State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, fraudulently impersonated one Eun Kyung
through his email, kyunge796@gmail.com with intent to gain advantage
to yourself and thereby committed an offense contrary to Section
22 [2] [b] of the Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention, etc) Act,
2015 and punishable under subsection 22 (2) [iv] of the same Act".
Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced Chinedu to 2 years
imprisonment or a fine of N500,000.
The court also ordered the closure of all his social media and
First bank accounts and the balance in the bank account forfeited
to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The court further ordered that his Toshiba Laptop Satellite Pro
L100 model be forfeited and sold through the Register of the Court.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
yahoo-boy-bags-2years-jail-term-in-nasarawa
*****************************************
23 JUL 2022
Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters in Port Harcourt
Justice P. I . Ajoku of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State has convicted and sentenced the duo of
Favour Otogbo and Anawanti Finbar to various jail terms for
impersonation and possession of fake documents
They were convicted on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 after pleading
"guilty" to two-count separate charges preferred against them
upon being arraigned by the Port Harcourt’s Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
One of the count charges reads:
"That you Favour Otogbo between 1st of July to 30th of July,
2021 in Port Harcourt within the jurisdiction of this honourable
court fraudulently represented yourself on Instagram as a Marine
Engineer from Houston, Texas in the United States of America
(USA) with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the
Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention Etc) Act, 2015 punishable
under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act."
They pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against them by
the prosecution.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsels, F. O. Amama and
F. C. Obinwa, prayed the court to convict and sentence the
defendants as charged. However, counsels to the defendants,
D. L. Davies and O. C. Nwanarah prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy stating that they are first-time offenders
with no previous criminal records.
Justice Ajoku convicted and sentenced Otogbo to two years
imprisonment, with an option of fine of Five Hundred Thousand
Naira (N500,000.00) payable into the Consolidated Revenue
Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Judge also ordered that the PS5 Console and a white- coloured
iPhone X recovered from the convict in the course of arrest, be
forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Also, the convict
should restitute to the victim the sum of $1,500 which was the
amount fraudulently obtained.
Finbar, on the other hand, bagged a jail term of one year with
an option of fine of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000)
payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria. He was also ordered to forfeit a Tecno
CX air mobile phone recovered from him to the government.
In addition, the two convicts are ordered to depose to an
affidavit of good behaviour before the court.
Their journey to the Correctional Service started when they
were arrested during a raid conducted by the Commission on
June, 1 2022 around Borokiri and Ada George area of Port
Harcourt, Rivers State. Investigation linked them to internet
fraud and criminal impersonation of foreigners. They were
prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcourt
****************************************
22 JUL 2022
74 Internet Fraud Suspects Arrested in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested Seventy Four (74)
suspected internet fraudsters. They were picked up in the early
hours of Thursday, July 21, 2022, at various locations in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State.
However, of the number, Forty Eight (48) had incriminating items
in their possession.
The suspects are: Promise Sunday, Ukala Goldman, Isaac Golden,
Peter Ikechukwu, Bankole Olamide, John Chiemela, Thomas Martins,
Dr Victor, Emmanuel Owuma, Emmanuel Sekun, Philip Abaku, Emmanuel
Egwuanumku, Thompson Charles Lekia, Ken Anelele Marvel, Kelechi
Prince, Ugochukwu Ukaigwe, Ake John, Victor Madu, Moses Jubril
Akrah, Jonathan Jeffery, Noble Lot, Success Umukoro, Precious
Michael and Christabel Enoch.
Others are Desmond Ogu, Louis Abbas, Donaldson Ugbo, Kelvin Dickson,
Henry Messiah, Godwin Egwelike, Timinepre Esuku, Mathew Kelvin,
Alfred Friday, Nyderson Mufisa Nwogu, Boyle Edward, Ifeanyi Elum,
Richard Welle Chikodi, Ogu Raymond, Tamunoturoko Briggs, Kenedy
Patrick, Shadrach Savior, King Nwonuma, Chisom Umah, Joseph Effiong,
Kelvin Ifeanyi, Birabil Lessi Junior Goodness, George Nnamdi and
Doro Precious.
Items recovered from them include five exotic cars, different
brands of phones, laptops, ATM cards, among others.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains a group photo:
74-internet-fraud-suspects-arrested-in-port-harcourt
*****************************************
22 JUL 2022
Cybercrime: Ex-convict, Thirty-two Others Arrested
for Alleged Internet Fraud in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Thursday, July 21, 2022
arrested a convicted internet fraudster, Okhiria Alex Chibueze
and thirty-two others for alleged internet-related fraud.
The suspects were nabbed in a sting operation at Soka area of
Ibadan, Oyo State, following intelligence reports on their alleged
cyber-fraud activities.
The suspects are, Okhiria Alex Chibueze, Olootu Damilola Ayomikun,
Akiwale Isreal Bunmi, Oladele Olatunde Oladimeji, Okeniyi Samuel
Akinniyi, Sanya Oyekole Olakunle, Okon Gideon Henry, Stephen Samuel
Shekwuduza, Adeshina Opeyemi Akanni, Hezekiah Ajadi Oluwatobi,
Omoke Ogbonnaya Okike, Alex Samuel Aiku, Micheal Olakunle Oyinwola,
Salami Oluwafemi Salami, Udeh Moses Emeka and Monday Samuel Nnaemeka.
Others include Oluchukwu Emmanuel Ifeanyi Chukwu, Olaleye Azeez
Olaide, Akintunde Victor Opeyemi, Akintayo Abass Waliu, Bada Samuel
Rotimi, Isaac Isaiah Chinedu, Adeleke Olawale Isaac, Enoch Obaloluwa
Bolaji, Afolabi Tomiwa Pelumi, Chukwudi Emeka Samuel, Abiola Oloruntoba
Enoch, Chukwu Ogbonnaya Chukwu, Ogbonna Simon Ugwu, Durodoye Jubril
Akinwunmi, Durodoye Idris Akindeji, Sanmabo Ayodeji Olufisayo and
Olatunbosun Abdulmujeeb Olanrewaju.
Eight exotic cars, several mobile phones, laptops, expensive wrist-
watches among other items, were recovered from them.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigations are
concluded.
It will be recalled that Okhiria Alex Chibueze was arrested by the
operatives of Ibadan Zonal Command of the EFCC sometime in 2021 for
fraudulently obtaining $3, 800 USD (Three Thousand, Eight Hundred
United States Dollars) through a fake lottery scheme. He was
successfully prosecuted and sentenced to six months community
service by the Court on June 16, 2022.
The press release includes photos:
cybercrime-ex-convict-thirty-two-others-arrested-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-ibadan
****************************************
22 JUL 2022
Yahoo Boy Convicted in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction of one Abel Joseph
before Justice A.A Bello of the Kaduna State High Court on a
one count amended charge bordering on Internet fraud.
The one count charge against the defendant reads: "That you,
Abel Joseph (aka Nita Joel) sometime in June, 2022 in Kaduna
within the Judicial Division of the High Court in an attempt
to defraud, Impersonated one Nita Joel (a citizen of the United
States of America) using your Infinix Smart5, when you knew
you were not, and you thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017
and punishable under the same law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge. He was convicted
and sentenced to a fine of N100, 000 by Justice Bello. Where
the defendant fails to pay the fine, he shall serve a term
of 3 months in prison.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
yahoo-boy-convicted-in-kaduna
**********************************
22 JUL 2022
37 Arrested in Asaba for Alleged Internet Fraud
Thirty-seven (37) suspected internet fraudsters were arrested
on Thursday July 21, 2022, by the Enugu Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
They were picked up in different locations at Asaba, the Delta
State capital following actionable intelligence on their alleged
involvement in cyber-fraud.
The suspects are: Sulaimon Godspower, Ejiro Igho, Tega Oyah,
Lucky Osawale, Nedum Monday, Ifeanyi Emmanuel, Imafidon Umweni,
Joe Ugoka, Ehis Famous, Olalekan Ogunsanya,Asonya Goodluck,
Kingsley Andrew, Daniel Godswill, Ojibi Mairo Silver, Samuel
Joseph,Majemite Simon and Emeka Udorah.
Others are: Osagboyo Hendrix,Uchenna Chukwujindu, Martin Andrew,
Oganiru Godwin, Emmanuel Okoro, Isaac Alex,Mike Araco, David Happy,
Maxwell Orakwe,Ugboka Innocent,Ufuoma Oyovwevotu, Kenneth Osaretin,
Anthony Avworhok, Ikani Dennis,Simon Ogedegbe, Emmanuel Oyovwi,
Williams Benjamin, Caleb Olisaebuka,Oghenekihworo Oghene and Agbogidi
Great.
Items recovered from them include four Toyota Camry cars, one
Mercedes Benz ML350 with registration number KSF-965-GD, and one
Lexus RX 350 with registration number WWR-334-AH.
Several mobile phones, Mifi mobile wifi devices and laptops were
also recovered in the course of execution of the search warrant.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release includes photos:
37-arrested-in-asaba-for-alleged-internet-fraud
***************************************
21 JUL 2022
EFCC Arrests 18 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, have arrested 18 suspected internet fraudsters in Abuja.
The suspects are: Innocent Samson, Obiora Eze, Ifeanyi Joseph,
Isdore Chinedu, Badaki Linus, Ameh Nick, Kelvin Chima, Akwa Iwu P
romise Ifeanyi, Adekunle Samuel.
Others are: Abutu John, Testimony Mathiew, Omale Mary Ochanya
(female), Afarm Darlington Edwin, Henry John, Urochukwu Abel,
Ogieto Gift, Innocent Gideon, Ojimini Maduemyi Raymond, Mathiew
Timothy, and Kingsley Chukwuemeka.
They were arrested on July 19, 2022 at Army Estate Phase Five,
Kurudu, Abuja, following intelligence reports received by the
Commission about their alleged involvement in internet-related
fraud.
Items recovered from the suspects include three cars: a Lexus
RX 350, Lexus ES 350 and Peugeot 306, a motor bike, six laptop
computers, and mobile phones.
The suspects will be charged to court after investigations
are concluded.
The release includes group photos:
efcc-arrests-18-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
***********************************
21 JUL 2022
Court Jails Three for Cyber-fraud in Oyo
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of the trio of Ajibola Jamiu Adewale, Daniel Ayomide
Aremu and Olaide Ibrahim Opeyemi before Justice Uche Agomoh of the
Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State for fraudulent impersonation,
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention etc.) Act, 2015.
Adewale was arraigned on two counts, while Aremu and Olaide Opeyemi
were docked on separate one count charges.
The charge against Aremu reads: "That you, Daniel Ayomide Aremu on
or about 29th of July, 2021 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court with intent to defraud, knowingly impersonated one Daniella
Jessica when you falsely represented yourself as a woman to one John
Clenny in order to gain advantage for yourself contrary to Section 22
(2) (b) (ii) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act,
2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) of the same Act."
Count one of the charge against Adewale reads: "That you, Ajibola
Jamiu Adewale 'M' on or about the 13th of September, 2021 within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud,
created a profile on the internet with the email jessicamark157@gmail.com
whereby you represented yourself as a 25 years old white American woman
from Arizona by name Jessica Mark, and by this means you obtained benefits
and gained advantage (including the benefit of the sum of N7.7million in
your UBA Account, a Toyota Venza hybrid car with Reg. NO. ABC 233 PD, a
blue coloured iPhone12 Pro Max mobile handset, i-watch series 6 and a
gold iPhone S Max), a pretext which you knew to be false, and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under the same Act."
The defendants pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against them by
the EFCC.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, C.A. Okoli and Modupe Akinkoye
reviewed the facts of the cases, tendered confessional statements made by
the convicts and other indicting documents before the court. They urged
the court to convict and sentence the defendants as charged.
Consequently, Justice Agomoh convicted and sentenced Opeyemi to two
years imprisonment, Adewale and Aremu seven and six months imprisonment
respectively.
The court further ordered that Adewale restitute the sum of N8million
domiciled in his banks accounts and forfeit a Toyota Venza car amongst
other items believed to be the proceeds of the crime committed. Also,
Aremu and Opeyemi are to restitute their victims and forfeit all items
recovered from them.
The convicts were ordered to write a "letter of undertaking" stating
that they will never engage in any crime, especially cybercrime again a
nd submit the same to the Ibadan Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-three-for-cyber-fraud-in-oyo
**********************************
21 JUL 2022
Two Jailed for Multi-million Naira Internet Fraud in Jigawa
The Kano Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of the duo of Olalekan Adekola Adeojo and Theophilus Ehoghcho
Opanachi to six and five months imprisonment respectively
before Justice Husaina Adamu Aliyu of the Jigawa State High
Court on a four count charge each bordering on cheating and
obtaining by false pretense.
The convicts who are graduates of Federal University, Dutse
Jigawa State, were arrested on the 3rd June, 2022 by the operatives
of Department of State Services, Dutse, Jigawa State, following
an intelligence report on the involvement of some youth in internet
-related frauds at Mallam Inuwa Dutse Housing Estate Danmasara
Quarters.
They were subsequently handed over to the Commission for further
investigation.
Further investigation by the Commission revealed that the defendants
used false representation on various social media platforms to
defraud several victims, mostly foreigners.
Theophilus was found to have obtained the sum of $8,012.58 (Eight
Thousand, Twelve Dollars, Fifty Eight Cents from eleven victims -
all foreigners.
It was also discovered that he acted as picker for other internet
fraudsters currently at large, by redeeming the Cryptocurrencies
fraudulently obtained from their victims for which he benefitted
a total sum of N5,845,984.03 as commission.
Furthermore, it was also discovered that gifts worth Four Million,
Seven Hundred and Forty Eight Thousand, Eight Hundred and Two Naira,
Four Kobo Only (N4,748,802.04) was fraudulently obtained by Theophilus
through the trio of Oyibo Abdulwahab, Precious Andrew and Okpanachi
Victor for redemption.
Adeojo, on the other hand, obtained the sum of Twenty Six Million,
Eighty Five Thousand, Six Hundred and Seventy Seven Naira Only
(N26, 085,677) from two victims.
The two defendants pleaded guilty to all the charges preferred
against them by the prosecution.
In view of their pleas, counsel for the prosecution, Aisha Tahar
Habib, asked the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Aliyu convicted and sentenced Adeojo to six months
imprisonment or a fine of Three Hundred Thousand Naira Only
(N300, 000), while Theophilus bagged five months imprisonment
with an option of N250,000 fine.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of an uncompleted building
and a 2013 model Mercedes-Benz C-Class belonging to Adeojo and a
Toyota Camry owned by Theophilus.
All the laptops and cell phones which were used as instruments to
commit the fraud were also forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release photos of the 419ers:
two-jailed-for-multi-million-naira-internet-fraud-in-jigawa
****************************************
20 JUL 2022
Court Sends Fraudster to Three Years Imprisonment in Benin ..
Loses House, Car, money in Five Bank Accounts to Victims
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin
on Wednesday July 20, 2022, convicted and sentenced Abudu Gentle
Osarobo to three years imprisonment for fraud.
Osarobo was arraigned on one count charge by the Benin Zonal
Command of the EFCC for fraudulent impersonation and obtaining
by false pretence. He had impersonated one Barry Carson, a US
military officer to defraud his victim.
The charge against Osarobo reads: "That you, Abudu Gentle Osarobo
(m) sometime between 2018 and September, 2021 in Benin City, Edo
State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent
to defraud represent yourself to be Barry Carson, a US military
officer and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel
State of Nigeria (As Applicable in Edo State) 1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Francis Jirbo,
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
However, the defence counsel, Kenechukwu Ofoedu pleaded with the
court to temper justice with mercy.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the defendant to
three year imprisonment or a fine of N500, 000.
The court ordered that the defendant forfeits to the Federal
Government of Nigeria, a 3-bedroom bungalow in Benin City, a
Toyota Rav 4 Jeep 2015 Model, Four UBA Manager's Cheques of
N10 million, the sum of N2,200,827.05 in his Sterling Bank
account, N725,209.47 in his company account - Edorisiagbon
Allied Business limited, N30,753.78, in his business account
- Edorisiagbon Global Enterprise, the sum of N4,968,731,24 and
N40,397.95 in his First Bank and Sterling Bank accounts for
the benefit of the victims.
The accounts are to be closed afterwards.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-fraudster-to-three-years-imprisonment-in-benin-loses-house-car-money-in-five-bank-accounts-to-victims
****************************************
20 JUL 2022
Internet Fraudster Lands in Jail, Loses Car to FG in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction of one Abdulrahman Kayode Wasiu for
offences bordering on cybercrime and retention of proceeds of unlawful
activities,
Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin
entenced the defendant to six months imprisonment, having found
him guilty of the one-count charge brought against him by the EFCC.
Abdulrahman between November 2020 and November 2021, allegedly had
in his possession a sum of N4, 326.000.00 (Four Million, Three Hundred
and Twenty Six Thousand Naira Only) suspected to be proceed of unlawful
activities.
The defendant pleaded guilty when the charge was read to him.
Following his guilty plea, Innocent Mbachie, who prosecuted the case
on behalf of the EFCC reviewed the facts through a witness who tendered
items such as a Lexus 350 car and an iPhone recovered from the defendant
at the point of arrest. Counsel also tendered the extra-judicial statement
and several incriminating documents printed from the defendant’s device,
which were admitted in evidence.
Mbachie urged the court to hold that the prosecution had established
a prima-facie case against the defendant to warrant his conviction.
Justice Akinpelu in her judgment on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 said the
court relied on the guilty plea entered by the defendant, his extra-
judicial statements and all the exhibits tendered and was convinced
that the prosecution had proved its case beyond doubt.
While sentencing Abdulrahman to six months imprisonment with option
of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only), the judge ordered
that the iPhone used by the convict to perpetrate the crime and the
Lexus 350 car acquired with the proceeds of his unlawful activities
be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-lands-in-jail-loses-car-to-fg-in-ilorin
***************************************
20 JUL 2022
$700 Scam: Court Remands Suspect in Prison
Justice S. I. Mark of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State has ordered the remand of an internet
fraud suspect, Nwosu Gospel Light, in the Port Harcourt
Correctional Centre, pending the determination of his bail
application.
Light on Wednesday July 20, 2022 pleaded not guilty to a two
count charge impersonation and obtaining money by false pretense
brought against him by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
One of the counts reads: “"hat you, Nwosu Gospel Light on or
about 15th of January, 2022 at Port Harcourt, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud,
did obtain the sum of Seven Hundred Dollars ($700USD ) only
from one Doren, a Netherland Citizen, under the false pretense
that you are investing in Crypto Currency business for him,
a pretext you knew to be false and thereby committed an
offense contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) of the Advance Fee
Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and
punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act".
He however pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, E. K. Ebipade,
prayed the court to remand the defendant and fix a date
for the commencement of trial.
Justice Mark ordered that the defendant be remanded in the
Correctional Centre and adjourned the case till October 10,
2022 for consideration of the bail application and commencement
of trial.
Trouble started for Light sometime in April 2022, when the
Commission received an intelligence report about the activities
of some internet fraudsters operating within Port Harcourt
Metropolis.
The defendant was apprehended on the 1st of June, 2022 at Ada
George, Port Harcourt, Rivers State for alleged involvement in
series of love scams and using Gmail accounts to defraud
unsuspecting victims.
Investigation further revealed that the defendant deceived
his victims into believing that he is into Bitcoin trading
and defrauded one Doren, a Netherland Citizen of the sum of
Seven Hundred United States Dollars ($700).
The press release contains a photo:
700-scam-court-remands-suspect-in-prison
****************************************
19 JUL 2022
$3.5M Fraud: EFCC Extradites FBI Wanted Internet Fraud Suspect to US
A wire fraud suspect, Fatade Idowu Olamilekan on wanted list
of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, was on Thursday
July 14, 2022, extradited to the United States for allegedly
stealing over Three Million, Five Hundred Thousand United States
Dollars ($3.5M) worth of equipment in various cities across
the US.
His extradition was coordinated by the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, following a notice from the Federal
Bureau of Investigation, FBI New York, through the US Legal
Attache for his role in impersonating various cities, state
and academic institutions across the United States.
Fatade was indicted by a grand jury in the Southern District
of New York for offences of wire fraud, interstate transportation
of stolen property and identity theft.
The suspect was arrested on September 30, 2021, by operatives
of the EFCC and his extradition trial commenced sometime in
November, 2021 before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of a Federal
High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
On May 1, 2022, the Judge granted the request to extradite
the suspect to the United States to answer to the criminal
charges against him.
Upon his arrival in the United States, the suspect is billed
to appear before a United States District Court.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
3-5m-fraud-efcc-extradites-fbi-wanted-internet-fraud-suspect-to-us
***************************************
19 JUL 2022
$ 69,000 Scam: Court Convicts Man for Fraudulent Impersonation
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on July 15, 2022,
secured the conviction of one Kelvin Tobe Igboamaeze before Justice M.
Zubairu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Kurudu, Abuja
on a four count charge bordering on cheating by personation.
Count one of the charge reads: "That you, AUGUSTUS KELVIN GBOAMAEZE
(Cubana wire) sometime in April, 2018 at Abuja within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did cheat by personation, by pretending to
be Cubana, a Wire Engineer working in Ukraine, via www.gmail.com and
obtained the sum of $66,000 (Sixty-Six Thousand Dollars) from Patti
Jackson, an American citizen through Google Cards and thereby committed
an offence contrary to section 321 of the Penal Code, Laws of the
Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990 and punishable under section 324
of the same Act".
Another count read: "That you AUGUSTUS KELVIN IGBOAMAEZE sometime
in April, 2018 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did cheat by personation, by pretending to be David Wilson,
an Engineer working in Ukraine, via www.gmail.com and obtained
the sum of $3,000 (Three Thousand Dollars) from Clara, an American
citizen through Google Card and thereby committed an offence contrary
to section 321 of the Penal Code, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (
Abuja) 1990 and punishable under section 324 of the same Act".
He pleaded "guilty" to the charges.
In view of his plea, prosecuting counsel, Maryam Aminu Ahmad,
urged the Court to convict him accordingly.
Justice Zubairu convicted and sentenced the defendant to three
months imprisonment on each of the four count charges, or an option
of fine of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50, 000) on each for the counts.
The Court ordered the forfeiture of items recovered from him during
arrest, including an iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 11 Pro, MacBook Air
Laptop and a gold chain.
The Court further ordered that the sum of Four Thousand, Seven
Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($4,750), a draft of Six Million, Nine
Hundred and Fifty- two Thousand, Five Hundred Naira (N6, 952, 500)
raised by the defendant be restituted to the victim.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
69-000-scam-court-convicts-man-for-fraudulent-impersonation
*************************************
18 JUL 2022
Court Jails Engineer, Two Others for Cybercrime in Ilorin
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court in Ilorin on Monday,
July 18, 2022, convicted a 26-year-old Computer Engineer, Olabisi
Damilola Samuel from Boluwaduro Local Government Area of Osun State
and two others for offences bordering on cybercrime and retention
of proceeds of unlawful activities.
The two others are Ajayi Opeyemi Olayemi, a DJ from Akure South
Local Government Area of Ondo State and one Timothy Abidemi Olakunle
from Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, prosecuted the trio on separate charges to
which they pleaded guilty.
Following their guilty plea, Aliyu Adebayo and Andrew Akoja who
prosecuted the cases on behalf of the Commission reviewed the
facts of the cases and tendered the extra-judicial statements
of the defendants, phones, laptop recovered from them at the
point of arrest and fraudulent messages printed from their
devices, which were admitted in evidence.
Adebayo and Akoja urged the court to hold that the prosecution
had established the essential ingredients of crime against the
defendants to warrant their conviction.
Justice Sani in his judgment found the defendants guilty and
sentenced them to various jail terms.
Olabisi was sentenced to three years imprisonment with option
of fine of N500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on count
one while he was handed a fine of N186,600 on count two. The
court ordered that the iPhone and Hp Laptop recovered from the
convict be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Similarly, the judge sentenced Ajayi to three years imprisonment
with option of N500,0000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only) each
on count one and two and ordered the forfeiture of his three
phones and a Laptop, which the convict used to perpetrate the
crime to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Timothy bagged three-years imprisonment with
option of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) each on
count one and two which are to run concurrently. The court also
ordered that the convict's iPhone 11 Pro Max which was used to
perpetrate the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a small photo of each 419er:
court-jails-engineer-two-others-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*************************************
19 JUL 2022
$3.5M Fraud: EFCC Extradites FBI Wanted Internet Fraud Suspect to US
A wire fraud suspect, Fatade Idowu Olamilekan on wanted list of the
Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, was on Thursday July 14, 2022,
extradited to the United States for allegedly stealing over Three Million,
Five Hundred Thousand United State Dollars ($3.5M) worth of equipment
in various cities across the US.
His extradition was coordinated by the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, following a notice from the Federal Bureau of Investigation,
FBI New York, through the US Legal Attache for his role in impersonating
various cities, state and academic institutions across the United States.
Fatade was indicted by a grand jury in the Southern District of New York
for offences of wire fraud, interstate transportation of stolen property
and identity theft.
The suspect was arrested on September 30, 2021, by operatives of the EFCC
and his extradition trial commenced sometime in November, 2021 before Justice
Chukwujekwu Aneke of a Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
On May 1, 2022, the Judge granted the request to extradite the suspect to
the United States to answer to the criminal charges against him.
Upon his arrival in the United States, the suspect is billed to appear
before a United States District Court.
The press release contains a photo:
3-5m-fraud-efcc-extradites-fbi-wanted-internet-fraud-suspect-to-us
*****************************************
19 JUL 2022
$69,000 Scam: Court Convicts Man for Fraudulent Impersonation
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on July 15, 2022,
secured the conviction of one Kelvin Tobe Igboamaeze before Justice M.
Zubairu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Kurudu, Abuja on
a four count charge bordering on cheating by personation.
Count one of the charge reads: "That you, AUGUSTUS KELVIN GBOAMAEZE
(Cubana wire) sometime in April, 2018 at Abuja within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did cheat by personation, by pretending to
be Cubana, a Wire Engineer working in Ukraine, via www.gmail.com and
obtained the sum of $66,000 (Sixty-Six Thousand Dollars) from Patti
Jackson, an American citizen through Google Cards and thereby committed
an offence contrary to section 321 of the Penal Code, Laws of the
Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990 and punishable under section 324
of the same Act".
Another count read: "That you AUGUSTUS KELVIN IGBOAMAEZE sometime
in April, 2018 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did cheat by personation, by pretending to be David Wilson,
an Engineer working in Ukraine, via www.gmail.com and obtained the
sum of $3,000 (Three Thousand Dollars) from Clara, an American
citizen through Google Card and thereby committed an offence
contrary to section 321 of the Penal Code, Laws of the Federation
of Niger"a (Abuja) 1990 and punishable under section 324 of the
same Act”.
He pleaded "guilty" to the charges.
In view of his plea, prosecuting counsel, Maryam Aminu Ahmad,
urged the Court to convict him accordingly.
Justice Zubairu convicted and sentenced the defendant to three
months imprisonment on each of the four count charges, or an option
of fine of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50, 000) on each for the counts.
The Court ordered the forfeiture of items recovered from him during
rest, including an iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 11 Pro, MacBook Air
Laptop and a gold chain.
The Court further ordered that the sum of Four Thousand, Seven
Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($4,750), a draft of Six Million, Nine
Hundred and Fifty- two Thousand, Five Hundred Naira (N6, 952, 500)
raised by the defendant be restituted to the victim.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
69-000-scam-court-convicts-man-for-fraudulent-impersonation
*******************************************
18 JUL 2022
Court Jails Engineer, Two Others for Cybercrime in Ilorin
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court in Ilorin on Monday,
July 18, 2022, convicted a 26-year-old Computer Engineer, Olabisi
Damilola Samuel from Boluwaduro Local Government Area of Osun State
and two others for offences bordering on cybercrime and retention
of proceeds of unlawful activities.
The two others are Ajayi Opeyemi Olayemi, a DJ from Akure South
Local Government Area of Ondo State and one Timothy Abidemi Olakunle
from Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, prosecuted the trio on separate charges to which
they pleaded guilty.
Following their guilty plea, Aliyu Adebayo and Andrew Akoja who
prosecuted the cases on behalf of the Commission reviewed the facts
of the cases and tendered the extra-judicial statements of the
defendants, phones, laptop recovered from them at the point of
arrest and fraudulent messages printed from their devices, which
were admitted in evidence.
Adebayo and Akoja urged the court to hold that the prosecution
had established the essential ingredients of crime against the
defendants to warrant their conviction.
Justice Sani in his judgment found the defendants guilty and
sentenced them to various jail terms.
Olabisi was sentenced to three years imprisonment with option of
fine of N500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on count one
while he was handed a fine of N186,600 on count two. The court
ordered that the iPhone and Hp Laptop recovered from the convict
be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Similarly, the judge sentenced Ajayi to three years imprisonment
with option of N500,0000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only) each
on count one and two and ordered the forfeiture of his three phones
and a Laptop, which the convict used to perpetrate the crime to the
Federal Government.
In the same vein, Timothy bagged three-years imprisonment with
option of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) each on count
one and two which are to run concurrently. The court also ordered
that the convict's iPhone 11 Pro Max which was used to perpetrate
the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains photos of the 419esr:
court-jails-engineer-two-others-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*********************************************
18 JUL 2022
Court Sends Six Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday July 18, 2022, secured the conviction
of six internet fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the
Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City for fraud.
The convicts are Imariable Aisosa Collins, Ofuoku Raymond Diamond,
Peace Omaghomi, Eze Solomon, Akeer Kelly and Nonso Nwakor
They were arraigned separately on one count charge bordering on
intent to defraud and fraudulent personation. They impersonated
foreign nationals to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Imariable Aisosa Collins reads: "that you,
Imariable Aisosa Collins sometimes between October 2021 and
February 2022 in Benin City Edo State, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent
yourself to be Edward Donald residing in Atlanta, USA, on
Instagram platform and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law
Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo
State) 1976".
The charge against Ofuoku Raymond Diamond reads: "that you,
Ofuoku Raymond Diamond (M) sometime between 2021 and 23rd May,
2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself
to be Yusuf Mohammed, a United Arab Emirate citizen and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section
484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of
Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State),1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their
respective charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, I.M
Elodi and I.K Agwai to pray the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants, prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendants have become remorseful for
their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the duo of Diamond
and Solomon to three years imprisonment with an option of Three
Hundred Thousand Naira fine each. The duo of Collins and Nwankwo
also bagged two years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred
Thousand Naira and Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine respectively.
Kelly was sentenced to one year imprisonment with an option of
One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira fine.
Justice Ikponmwonba ordered that a white Mercedes Benz C350
recovered from Collins be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria while the sum of One Million, Eight Hundred and
Forty Nine Thousand, One Hundred and Sixteen Naira, Sixty
Kobo (N1,849,116.60) found in United Bank for Africa account
and the sum of Five Hundred and Fifty Four Thousand Nine Hundred
and Sixty Eight Naira Ninety Nine Kobo (N554,968.99) in First
Bank account of Ofuoku Raymond Diamond, being proceeds of
crime, be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
All the defendants are also to forfeit their phones to the
Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake to be of good
behaviour.
The press release contains a small photo of each 419er:
court-sends-six-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin
************************************
15 JUL 2022
Court Convicts Fake Johnny Depp in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction and sentencing of
Jeremiah Emmanuel who paraded himself as Johnny Depp on Hangout
and one Abubakar Kabiru before Justice Darius Khobo of Kaduna
State High Court.
The defendants were prosecuted on one and two counts respectively.
The charge against Emmanuel reads, "That you, Jeremiah Emmanuel
(aka Johnny Depp), between May and June 2022 at Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, attempted to commit
an offence and in such an attempt did a certain act towards the
Commission of the said offence, to wit; falsely presented yourself
as Johnny Depp ( a Hollywood celebrity in the United States of
America) to one Jitka Krumlovà on 'Hangout' ( an online social
media application) in order to cheat her and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 57 of the Kaduna State Penal Code
Law of 2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law".
One of the counts on which Abubakar was jailed, reads; "That
you, Abubakar Kabiru, sometime in July, 2019 at Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did pretend to be
Debra Gibson ( a female living in the United States of America)
when you knew you were not and in such assumed character cheated
one James Edward, an America citizen of the sum of Two Hundred
United States Dollars ($200 USD), when you claimed that you were
in love with her and to engage her in a romantic relationship
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 308
of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law 2017 and punishable under
Section 309 of the same Law:.
They pleaded guilty to the charges. In view of their pleas,
the prosecuting counsel, N. Salele, urged the court to convict
the defendants accordingly. Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced
Emmanuel to 3months imprisonment or a fine of N100,000 while
Abubakar bagged N100,000 fine on counts one and two or 3 months
imprisonment in the even that he fails to pay the fine.
The court ordered that the defendants restitute their victims
in the sum of $200 and $300 respectively through the US Embassy.
The press release contains a photo of "Johnny" and another
fellow 419er:
court-convicts-fake-johnny-depp-in-kaduna
419 Coalition comment: Hasn't Johnny Depp had enough troubles
lately already? Now even the 419ers are piling on. Sheesh, give
the poor man a break.....
*********************************
15 JUL 2022
Cybercrime: Two Convicted, Another Remanded in Oyo
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on Thursday, July 14, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of the duo of Ogunlana Charles Tolulope and Amoo
Emmanuel Abiodun on separate one count charge before Justice
Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ibadan, and
Justice Bayo Taiwo of the State High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The convicts were arrested by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the
EFCC sometime in the year 2021 for cyber-fraud related activities
in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The charge against Ogunlana reads: "That you, Ogunlana Charles
Tolulope ‘M’(aka Brandon Oliver) on or about the 8th of September,
2021 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently
impersonate one BRANDON OLIVER a male citizen of the United States
of America via your Google Hangouts brandonoliver101@gmail.com and
oliverb909@gmail.com with intent to gain monetary advantage for
yourself, the pretext you knew to be false and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under
Section 22 (3) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.)
Act, 2015."
The charge against Amoo reads: "That you, Amoo Emmanuel Abiodun
on or about 29th October, 2021, at Ibadan, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, impersonated
Clifford Smith, a white man from United States of America and
thereby committed an offence of Impersonation contrary to Section
484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
They pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against them by
the EFCC.
Consequently, Justice Agomoh convicted and sentenced Ogunlana
to one year imprisonment and ordered him to restitute the sum
of N1, 600,000. 00 (One Million, Six Hundred Thousand Naira)
domiciled in his bank account too his victim and forfeit one
Camry car to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Similarly, Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced Amoo to six
months community service and ordered that the convict pay the
sum of $1,300USD (One Thousand Three Hundred United States of
America Dollars) in restitution and forfeit one iPhone 11 mobile
phone to the Federal Government.
In a related development, the Ibadan Zonal Command of the EFCC
arraigned one Sotunde Bashir Abiola before Justice Uche Agomoh
of the Federal High Court, on one count charge bordering on
fraudulent impersonation.
The charge reads: "That you, Sotunde Bashir Abiola 'M' sometimes
in March, 2021 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
with intent to defraud aided and abetted one Ashefon Daniel Kayode
who fraudulently impersonated one Robbin Stephen with intent to
gain advantage for himself and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 27 (1) (b) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.)
Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the
same Act."
He pleaded not guilty to the charge when read to him before
the court.
Justice Agomoh, ordered that the defendant be remanded in the
Agodi Correctional facility and adjourned till November 2, 2022
for the commencement of trial.
The press release contains a small photo of each of the 419ers:
cybercrime-two-convicted-another-remanded-in-oyo
***************************************
15 JUL 2022
19-Year-Old Facebook Scammer Jailed in Abuja
A 19-year-old school dropout and Facebook scammer, Agbo
Emmanuel was on Thursday July 14, 2022, convicted and
handed a one year suspended sentence by Justice N.I.
Afolabi of the Federal High Court sitting in Lafia,
Nasarawa State.
He was convicted after pleading guilty to the one count
charge preferred against him by the Abuja Zonal Command
of the EFCC.
The charge reads, "That you Agbo Emmanuel sometime in
2022 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honorable
Court through your Facebook account fraudulently impersonated
one Wei Shang with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2)
(b) (i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.)
Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) of the
same Act".
Taking into account the evidence before the court and
the plea of the defendant, Justice Afolabi convicted
Agbo and handed him a one year suspended sentence or
a fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira).
The defendant is expected to file a report of good
conduct from his school by December 9, 2022, or be
sent to a Correctional Centre to serve his term.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
19-year-old-facebook-scammer-jailed-in-abuja
**************************************
15 JUL 2022
Instagram Fraudster jailed in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, on Thursday
July 14, 2022, arraigned one Isaac Wulko Aliu before Justice N.I.
Afolabi of the Federal High Court sitting in Lafia Nasarawa S
tate for alleged cybercrime.
He was arraigned by the Abuja Zonal Command on a one count charge
of fraudulent impersonation to defraud some foreigners.
The charge reads, "That you, Isaac Wulko Aliu sometime in 2022
at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, through
Instagram Application fraudulently impersonated one Andy-uk86 who
is living in America with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i)
of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and
punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his guilty plea, Justice Afolabi convicted and
sentenced Aliu to twelve months imprisonment with hard labour
with an option of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine.
In addition, the court ordered that the sum of $111 (One
Hundred and Eleven US Dollars), proceeds of crime, and the
instruments used to perpetrate the crime be sold and the
proceeds paid into the Federation Account.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
instagram-fraudster-jailed-in-abuja
*************************************
14 JUL 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster in Warri
Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri
on Wednesday July 13, 2022, convicted and sentenced one Atarhe
Ochuko Nelson to one year imprisonment for fraud.
Nelson was arraigned on one count charge by the Benin Zonal
Command of the EFCC for fraudulent impersonation. He impersonated
Steven Paul, an American doctor, to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Nelson reads: "That you Atarhe Ochuko Nelson
sometime between 2021and 2022 in Warri, Delta State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did impersonate the identity
of Steven Paul, an American doctor, by fraudulently sending
documents to one Besty Tate through Hangout app on the internet
which documents you claimed emanated from the said Steven Paul
with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)(I) of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015 and punishable under
Section 22(2)(b)(iv) of the same Act".
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his pleas, the prosecution counsel, I. N. Elodi prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. However,
the defence counsel, T. Avwomakpa pleaded with the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendant is a first time offender who
has become remorseful for his action.
Justice Abang convicted and sentenced the defendant to one year
imprisonment with an option of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000)
fine.
In addition, the defendant shall forfeit his Lexus ES350 car and
mobile phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake
in writing to be of good behavior.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-in-warri
***********************************
14 JUL 2022
Three Internet Fraudsters Convicted, Forfeits Cars to FG
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court sitting in
Benin City on Thursday July 14, 2022 convicted and sentenced three
internet fraudsters to jail for fraud
The convicts, Oziegbe Famous, Clifford Johnson and Emmanuel Osas
Uwadiae were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC on
separate one count charge of impersonation and obtaining by false
pretence. They were said to have impersonated foreign nationals
in order to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The charge against Oziegbe Famous reads: "that you Oziegbe Famous
on 30th March 2022 in Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to
be one John Mark with Gmail account mj782087@gmail.com with intent
to defraud unsuspecting internet users into forex trading and gain
advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State
of Nigeria (As applicable in Edo State) 1976".
The charge against Clifford reads: "That you Clifford Johnson
sometimes between January 2022 and 23rd May 2022 in Benin City,
Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Ray Mckasyi,
an American Army personnel residing in USA on Instagram platform
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel
State of Nigeria (As applicable in Edo State) 1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge
preferred against them by the EFCC prompting the prosecution
counsel, A.A.Ozigbu to pray the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly. However, the defence counsel, B.E Ambrose
and F.E Oberagbo pleaded with the court to temper justice with
mercy as the defendants were first time offenders who had become
remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Famous and Johnson
to two years imprisonment with an option of N300,000.00 (Three
Hundred Thousand Naira) fine while Emmanuel Osas Uwadiae bagged
two years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of a Mercedes Benz C300
2016 model and Toyota Camry recovered from Famous and Johnson
respectively to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The defendants are also to forfeit their phones to the Federal
Government of Nigeria, being proceeds and instruments of fraud.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
hree-internet-fraudsters-convicted-forfeits-cars-to-fg
****************************************
14 JUL 2022
Two Convicted for Internet Fraud in Oyo
Justice Omolara Adeyemi of the Oyo State High Court sitting
in Ibadan, on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, convicted and sentenced
the duo of Babarinde Sodiq Adewale and Adewale Jegede Akanni
to six months community service each on a separate one count
charge of obtaining money by false pretence and personation,
which are contrary to Section 419 and 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The charge against Babarinde reads: "That you, Babarinde Sodiq
Adewale 'M' sometime in year 2021, at Ibadan, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained gift cards
worth of $200USD (Two Hundred United States Dollars) from Williams
James by falsely representing to him that you are a female and other
pretences which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence
of obtaining money by false pretence contrary to Section 419 of the
Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
The charge against Adewale reads: "That you, Adewale Jegede Akanni
on or about the 10th day of February, 2022 at Ibadan, Oyo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud
falsely represented yourself as Brittany Anderson, a white lady from
the United States of America, which representation you knew to be
false and thereby committed an offence of impersonation contrary to
Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
The convicts were arraigned by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and they pleaded
"guilty" to the charges filed against them.
In view of their pleas, the EFCC counsel, Abdulrasheed Suleiman,
prayed the court to convict and sentence.
Justice Adeyemi convicted and sentenced the defendants to six
months community service each. She added that the "jail term
shall be served within the court premises".
Also, the judge ordered that Babarinde pay the sum of $150 (One
Hundred and Fifty United States of America Dollars), N36, 727.05
domiciled in his Access bank account as restitution and forfeit
one Infinix S4 mobile phone to the Federal Government.
Furthermore, Adewale was ordered to restitute his victim the
sum of $1,000USD (One Thousand United States Dollars) found in
his bank account and forfeit a Lexus E350 saloon car, one
Infinix and one iPhone 6plus mobile phones to the Federal
Government.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-convicted-for-internet-fraud-in-oyo
*******************************************
14 JUL 2022
Court Sends Three Internet Fraudsters to Jail
Justice N.I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court sitting in Lafia,
Nasarawa State has convicted and sentenced the trio of Toheeb
Olaniyan, Taiwo Adebayo and Chukwudumebi Emmanuel Okwechime to
different jail terms for internet-related offences.
They were jailed on Wednesday July 13, 2022 after pleading guilty
to one-count separate charge bordering on cybercrimes, upon their
arraignment by the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Based on their pleas, Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced
Olaniyan to one year imprisonment or an option of fine of N50,000
(Fifty Thousand Naira). On the other hand, he convicted and
sentenced Adebayo to a fine of N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand
Naira), while Okwechime was convicted and sentenced to a fine
of N50, 000 (Fifty Thousand Naira). All the convicts are to
forfeit their phones and proceeds of crime to the government.
The convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre
when they were arrested by operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command
of the EFCC for impersonating foreigners and using their identities
to defraud other foreigners.
Olaniyan, through his Facebook account, fraudulently impersonated
one Richard Zhang with an intent to obtain €75, 000 (Seventy Five
Thousand Euro) from one Chinnyuk Tai, an unsuspecting resident in
Malaysia. Similarly, Adebayo used his MacBook air laptop to impersonate
one George Wong with the motive of using his identity to defraud
others while Okwechime impersonated one Steve Hart via his Facebook
account with the intent of obtaining $200 (Two Hundred United States
Dollars) from one Sherry Little.
The press release ccontains photos of all three 419ers:
court-sends-three-internet-fraudsters-to-jail
************************************
14 JUL 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Jailed in Kaduna
Justice A.A. Bello of the Kaduna State High Court sitting in
Kaduna has convicted and sentenced two internet fraudsters:
Godwin Paul Osikhena and Unique Isaac Odu to three months
imprisonment each, for internet-related offences.
They were jailed on Monday, July 4, 2022 after pleading guilty
to one –count separate charge bordering on impersonation, upon
their arraignment by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The lone-count charge reads:
"that you, Godwin Paul Osikhena (M), sometimes in June 2022
at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
in an attempt to commit fraud impersonated one Mark Wehlberg,
a popular Hollywood actor, which pretence you knew to be false
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna state Penal Code Law, 2017".
Based on their pleas, Justice Bello convicted and sentenced
them to three months imprisonment each, with an option of fine
of N100,000( One Hundred Thousand Naira). Both convicts are to
forfeit their iphone 6, camon 18 andriod phone, a mini wifi
and an apple Iphone 12 to the government.
Osikhena and Odu's journey to the Correctional Centre began
when they were arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal
Command of the EFCC for internet-related offences. Specifically,
Osikhena presented himself to one Elzbiebta Nanke as Mark Wehlberg
(a popular Hollywood actor) on social media and tried to defraud
him in the process.
Odu, on the other hand, assumed multiple identities of American
military personnel, such as Prince Young and Young Prince to
defraud two Americans: Beniyah Hawkins and Yamilex respectively
two-internet-fraudsters-jailed-in-kaduna
**************************************
13 JUL 2022
Three Convicted for Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 secured the conviction
of Peter Darshewa Felix, Benjamin Johnson and John Jacob before
Justice A.A Bello of the Kaduna State High Court.
The trio were all arrested in a sting operation for their alleged
involvement in cybercrime. They allegedly assumed the identities
of foreigners to defraud unsuspecting victims of their hard-earned
money through phantom romantic relationships.
Upon arrest, they were arraigned on separate one count charges.
One of the charge reads, "That you, Peter Darshewa Felix ( aka
Amanda Hills), sometime in April, 2022 at Kaduna within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did pretend to be one
Amanda Hills ( a citizen of the United States of America) when
you knew you were not and in such assumed character cheated one
Tom Strong of the sum of Five Hundred and Fifty United States
Dollars ( $550) and you thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law 2017 and
punishable under Section 309 of the same Law."
Another charge reads, "That you, Benjamin Johnson (aka Scott
Eastwood) sometimes between April and May, 2022 in Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently obtained
property to wit; Gift Cards worth the sum of $400 USD ( Four
Hundred United States Dollars) only from fans ( people from
United States of America) when you falsely presented yourself
to them as Scott Eastwood ( a celebrity in United States of
America) via an Instagram Account prviscotteastwood which
pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 1(1) (b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other
Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section
1 (3) of the same Act".
The charge against John Jacob, reads "John Jacob ( aka Melinate25),
sometime in June 2022 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, attempted to commit an offence and in such an
attempt did a certain act as Melinate25 ( citizen of the United
States of America) to unsuspecting victims on Hangout App. ( an
online social media application) in order to cheat them and you
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 57 of the Kaduna
State Penal Code Law of 2017 and punishable under Section 309
of the same Law".
They pleaded guilty to all charges preferred against them. The
Prosecuting counsel led by N. Salele urged the court to convict
all the defendants accordingly. Justice Bello convicted and sentenced
all three defendants to 3years imprisonment with an option of N 100,000
as fine. They are to also forfeit all the proceeds of crime.
The press release contains photos of the three 419ers:
three-convicted-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
******************************************
8 JUL 2022
Two Convicted for Cyber-fraud in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Abuja Zonal Command
on Friday , July 8, 2022, arraigned the duo of Musa Thankgod Precious
and Agbo Victor Nduh before Justice N.I. Afolabi of the Federal High
Court Lafia, Nasarawa State for their involvement in internet related
fraud.
Musa, 21, impersonated one Alex Andrew from Italy using fake Instagram
and Facebook accounts with the intention of obtaining Malaysian Ringgit
10,000 (Ten Thousand Malaysian Ringgit), while Agbo, a 23-year-old
electrician, using the Instagram app, pretended to be one David Smith,
an American, with the intent to gain advantage for himself.
Both pleaded guilty to the one count charge preferred against them.
In view of their guilty pleas, Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced
them to a fine of N100, 000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira only) each.
In addition, their bank accounts are to be closed and the balance
paid to the Federal Government. The Commission is also to supervise
the sale of all devices used to perpetrate the crime and the money
paid to the Federal Government.
The court also ordered the closure of their social media accounts
and evidence of this, sent to the court while their SIM cards and
Automated Teller Machine ATM cards are to be blocked.
The press release contains a photo of both 419ers:
two-convicted-for-cyber-fraud-in-abuja
**********************************
7 JUL 2022
Court Sends Man to Jail for Visa Scam in Warri
Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri,
Delta State on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, convicted and sentenced
one Kehinde Adewale to jail for visa scam.
Adewale was arraigned on one count charge by the Benin Zonal
Command of the EFCC for obtaining the sum of N1,900,000 under
the pretence of procuring a Canadian Visa for the complainant.
The charge against Adewale reads: "that you, Kehinde Adewale (M)
sometime in 2019 in Warri, Delta State within the jurisdiction
of the Federal High Court of Nigeria did with intent to defraud
induced one Gabriel Emadamerho Atori to pay the aggregate sum
of N1,900,000.00 (One Million, Nine Hundred Thousand Naira)
only into account No. 0217076444 domicile in Guaranty Trust
Bank Plc and operated by you on the pretence that same was
for a Canadian Visa, a pretence you knew to be false and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 1(b) of the Advance Fee
Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under
Section 1(3) of the same Act."
Upon arraignment the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge,
prompting the prosecution counsel, Immaculate Elodi, to pray
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Abang convicted and sentenced the defendant to six months
imprisonment without an option of fine. The court also ordered
the defendant to restitute the victim the balance of N1, 450,000.00
within six months of his release from prison.
The court contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-man-to-jail-for-visa-scam-in-warri
*************************************
7 JUL 2022
EFCC Arraigns Three for Alleged N99m Fraud
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on July 7, 2022, arraigned the trio of Umeh
Vitalis, Utom Sunday Egwu and Osita Jude Nnaji before Justice
Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court, Benin on three
count charge bordering on retention of proceeds of crime.
Vitalis, Egwu and Nnaji are alleged to have sometime in 2019
took possession of the aggregate sum of N99, 996,751.46, alleged
proceeds of criminal conduct.
One of the counts read: "that you, Umeh Vitalis sometimes between
13th and 15th August 2019 in Edo State within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court did transfer the aggregate sum of Ninety-nine
Million, Nine Hundred and Ninety Six Thousand, Seven Hundred and
Fifty One Thousand Naira, Forty Six Kobo ( N99,996,751.46) from
your Access bank account no: 003983951 to Access bank account of
MEGA Care Medicals Nigeria Ltd knowing that same represent proceeds
of the criminal conduct of Utom Sunday Egwu, to wit: Cybercrime
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 17(a) of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( Establishment)
Act 2004 and punishable under Section 17(b) of the same Act."
Another count reads: "that you, Osita Jude Nnaji on or about the
14 August 2019 in Edo State within the jurisdiction of this honourable
Court did take possession of the sum of N4,500,000 (Four Million, Five
Hundred Thousand Naira) which you deposited in your Access /Diamond
Bank Account number: 0053522833 knowing that same represent proceeds
of the criminal conduct Utom Sunday Egwu to wit: Cybercrime and thereby
committed an offence contrary to section 18(a) of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004 and punishable
under section 18 (2) of same Act"
The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read
to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, F.A Jirbo prayed the
court to fix a date for trial and to remand the defendants at the
Correctional Centre.
Justice Ikponmwonba ordered that the defendants be remanded at the
Correctional Facility and adjourned the matter till August 1, 2022
for trial
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arraigns-three-for-alleged-n99m-fraud
********************************
7 JUL 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Two Years Jail Term in Port Harcourt
Justice S. D. Pam of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State has convicted and sentenced an internet fraudster, Victory
Akpan, to two years jail term for impersonation and obtaining money by
false pretence.
He was convicted on Thursday, July 7, 2022 after pleading "guilty" to
two- count charges bordering on impersonation, upon being arraigned
by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission , EFCC.
One of the count charges reads: "That you Victory Akpan on or about
the 15th day of May 2022 at Port Harcourt within the jurisdiction of
this honourable court with intent to defraud did obtain the sum of
Thirty Dollars ($30) USD only from Buddy, a Pakistan Citizen, under
the false pretence that you are investing in Crypto Currency business
for him, a pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) and punishable under Section
1 (3) (of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act."
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, E. K. Ebipade prayed the
court to convict and sentence the defendant as charged. Counsel to
the defendant, M. N. Adams prayed the court to temper justice with
mercy stressing that the defendant is a first- time offender, with
no previous criminal records.
Justice Pam convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years
imprisonment with an option of fine of Five Hundred Thousand Naira
(N500,000.00 )
The Judge also ordered that the iPhone 11 and the Infinix Hot 10
recovered from the convict be forfeited to the government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-two-years-jail-term-in-port-harcourt
***************************************
7 JUL 2022
Court Jails Aminu for Internet Fraud in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on Thursday, July 7, 2022, secured the conviction
of one Moshood Aminu before Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna
State High court sitting in Kaduna.
Moshood, an artisan, was arrested for impersonating celebrities
in the social media and using the stolen identity to defraud
unsuspecting victims.
Upon arraignment, he pleaded guilty to the one count charge
brought against him by the EFCC.
The charge reads: "that you, Moshood Aminu ( aka Airdrop Smart )
sometime between the months of May and June, 2022 at Ramat Road,
U/Rimi, Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
and with intent to defraud fraudulently impersonated one Airdrop
Smart via your Twitter Account and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 142 (1) of the Kaduna
State Penal Code Law, 2017".
In view of his pela, the prosecuting counsel, M.O Arumemi reviewed
the facts of the case and urged the court to convict the defendant
accordingly.
Justice Khobo, convicted and sentenced the defendant to three
months in prison or a fine of N100,000.00.
He was ordered to forfeit his Samsung Galaxy S8 phone to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release containes a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-aminu-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
**************************************
7 JUL 2022
Court Sends Internet Fraudster to Jail in Port Harcourt
Justice S.D. Pam of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State has convicted and sentenced Aborchi Bernard (a.k.a Patrick
Kinder) to one year imprisonment for internet-related offences.
He was convicted on Wednesday, July 6, 2022 after pleading guilty to
one-count charge bordering on impersonation, preferred against him by
the Port Harcourt's Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge reads:
"That you Aborchi Bernard), sometime in November, 2021, in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State within the jurisdiction of this Honorable
Court did attempt to fraudulently impersonate one Patrick Kinder
on a Gmail with the intent to gain advantage for yourself and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 27 (1) (a) of
Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act 2015 and punishable
under Section 22 (2) of the same Act."
He pleaded guilty to the one count charge:
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, Endeba Abbiyesuku, prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly which
was not opposed by the defence counsel, A.G. Chamabila.
Justice Pam convicted and sentenced the defendant to one year
imprisonment with an option of fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira
(N200, 000.00). The court also ordered that the iPhone 6S and
Tecno phone recovered from the convict should be forfeited to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Aborchi's journey to the Correctional Service began, following his
arrest in a raid by operatives of the Port Harcourt's Zonal Command
of the EFCC for involvement in internet fraud activities. He was
charged to court and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-in-port-harcourt
*************************************
7 JUL 2022
EFCC Rescues an Alleged Kidnapped Yahoo Apprentice in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Friday, July 1, 2022, rescued an alleged kidnapped yahoo-yahoo
apprentice, 17-year-old Destiny Peter from an apartment in Mpape,
a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Peter had on July 1, 2022 contacted the EFCC on its official
twitter handle,@officialEFCC, narrating how some yahoo-yahoo
boys kidnapped him and intended to use him for rituals.
He was guided to send a screenshot of his location to the
Commission, using the Google Location App in his Android phone.
In a series of tweets, Peter wrote:
"Good afternoon sir, I called the EFCC number and lay some complaints
about some yahoo boys intending using me for ritual and he said I should
send a screenshot of the location."
"The house is in Mpape, but don’t know the exact place so check google
map and save the screenshot."
"I'm in the bathroom because I don’t want his boys to know what I'm
doing."
"My name is Destiny Peter and the place is Mpape. I don’t know the
actual place but I used google maps and the people in the house now
are his boys. Hold on let me try and do a video, sir."
Upon the twitter alert, the EFCC quickly mobilized a team of detectives
to the area for his rescue, and they found him locked up in a room. They
rescued him and arrested 16- year-old Aboaba David, 18 –year-old Isaac
Johnson, 20- year-old cook, Miracle Moses, a hair stylist, and the leader
of the syndicate, 20-year-old Jamilu Aliyu, popularly known as Jamilu Smith.
During interrogation, Peter said he was threatened by Jamilu Smith,
leader of the gang. He further stated that Smith threatened him, that
if he was not able to cash out (defraud) people within two weeks, he
would be sacrificed for rituals
Under interrogation, David said Smith was their leader and recruited
them to join him in scouting for potential online dating victims for
fraud. All other suspects pointed at Smith as their leader.
On his part, Smith debunked Peter's claim that he was kidnapped. He rather
said Peter's brother brought him to him willingly to teach him bitcoin and
gift cards trading.
All the suspects are in EFCC's custody for further investigation, and
would be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-rescues-an-alleged-kidnapped-yahoo-apprentice-in-abuja
****************************************
7 JUL 2022
Two Juvenile Internet Fraudsters Bag Suspended Jail Terms
Justice N.I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court sitting in Lafia,
Nassarawa State has convicted and sentenced two under-aged internet
fraudsters: Akhetuamhen Clinton, 15, and Obinyan Peter, 17, to
different suspended jail terms, for cybercrime.
They were both jailed on Tuesday, July 5, 2022 after pleading
guilty to one count separate charge bordering on cybercrime,
upon their arraignment by the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
They pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to them.
Justice Afolabi therefore convicted and sentenced Clinton to
two-year suspended sentence. The judge ordered him to close
down his bank account and banned from using a phone or any
computer except for academic purposes, till he turns 18 years.
Peter, on the other hand, has a one year suspended sentence
and is to return all proceeds of his crime to the Federal
Government. Both convicts are also to close down their social
media accounts and barred from going on social media.
In addition, both convicts, with the supervision of officials
of EFCC and their parents or guardians, are expected to report
back to the court on December 7, 2022 with their report cards
and statements of good conduct from their teachers and schools.
A bad report will mean that they will be in prison to serve
their jail terms.
Clinton bagged the suspended sentence for using his MacBook
Air laptop to fraudulently impersonate one Feng Zhang, living
in China, with the intent of gaining advantage for himself
while Obiyan created a Facebook account impersonating Jerry
Wang from Hong Kong with the intention of taking advantage
of unsuspecting users of the app for his fraudulent purposes.
The press release contains a photo of each precocious 419er:
two-juvenile-internet-fraudsters-bag-suspended-jail-terms
*************************************
6 JUL 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Convicted in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on July, 5, 2022, conviction and sentencing
of two internet fraudsters, one John Justine and Felix James
Keke before Justice Darius Khobo, of a Kaduna State High Court,
on charges that bordered on impersonation. While Justine was
prosecuted on one count charge of impersonation and love scam,
Keke faced a four count charge of impersonation.
The one count amended charge against Justine reads: "That you,
John Justine "M" sometime in July 2022 in Kaduna within the
Judicial Division of this Honourable Court with intent to
defraud had in your possession forged documents titled "romantic
relationship format" and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Section 349 of Kaduna State Penal Code
Law, 2017".
The suspect pleaded guilty to the one count amended charge
when it was read to him.
Upon his guilty plea,Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced
the defendant to three months imprisonment with an option
of a fine of N100,000,00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira).
John is also to forfeit one Apple iPhone 6S.
John's trouble started when he was arrested in a sting operation
at Unguwan Rimi axis of Kaduna metropolis following intelligence
reports on his involvement in cyber-fraud. Upon his arrest, a
document found on him revealed that he assumed the identity of
one Dwayne Young on his Facebook account through which he lured
his victims(Lorena , Matilda and Tassica) into romantic relationships.
In the same vein, Felix James Keke was convicted and sentenced to
three months imprisonment or a fine of N100,000,00 (One Hundred
Thousand naira) on a four counts charge of Impersonation. He is
to also forfeit one Apple iPhone 6S to the Federal Government.
Felix used twitter social media platform to impersonate one
Aditya Singh, Blocchain Backer, Open4profit, and Bitcoin Expert
India, and defraud unsuspecting victims.
Count one of the charges reads: "That you, Felix James Keke (M),
sometime between February and June 2022 at Kaduna within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, in an attempt to commit
Cybercrime impersonated one Aditya Singh on twitter, an on-line
social media application, which pretence you knew to be false
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable
under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law 2017".
Count three reads: "That you, Felix James Keke (M), sometime
between February and June 2022 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, in an attempt to commit Cybercrime
impersonated one Open4profit on twitter, an on-line social
media application, which pretence you knew to be false and
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law 2017".
The suspect pleaded guilty to all the four counts when they
were read to him.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-kaduna
********************************
6 JUL 2022
Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on July 5, 2022 secured the conviction of
two internet fraudsters, Freedom Ovie and Idogho Junior, on
a one count charge of personation before Justices Efe
Ikponmwonba and M. Itsueli of the Edo State High sitting
in Benin City, Edo State.
Ovie impersonated one Stephen Dickson, a US Army personnel,
while Junior impersonated one Alexander Mark, an American
actor, with intent to defraud them.
The charge against Ovie reads: "that you, Freedom Ovie sometimes
in February, 2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent
yourself to be Stephen Dickson, a US army officer, and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria
(as Applicable in Edo State) 1976".
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges. Consequently, the
prosecution counsel, Francis A.Jirbo and Aham Ozigbu, prayed the
courts to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, the
defence counsel pleaded with the courts to temper justice with
mercy as the defendants were first-time offenders.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Ovie to three years
imprisonment with an option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
The judge also ordered that the Tecno phone recovered in the course
of the investigation be forfeited to the Federal Government of
Nigeria.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Junior to three years
imprisonment or a fine of N400,000.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
***************************************
5 JUL 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Convicted in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on Monday, July 4, 2022 secured the conviction
and sentencing of the duo of Ahmad Ahmad and Friday Arome Okedi
before Justice A.A Bello of the Kaduna State High Court, Kaduna
on separate one count charge bordering on cheating by personation.
The duo was part of the syndicate of five fraudsters arrested
at Unguwan Rimi following intelligence reports on their internet
fraud activities.
One of the charges against the defendants reads: "That you, Ahmad
Ahmad, "M", sometime in January, 2022, in Kaduna within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did attempt to commit an
offence by impersonating a celebrity known as "Yo Yow" on twitter
and chatted with Wesley and others unsuspecting persons with the
intention of defrauding them money and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 57 of the Penal Code Law, 2017 of
Kaduna State and punishable under Section 142(1) law".
The other count reads: "That you, Friday Arome Okedi sometime
in May, 2022 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court with intent to defraud falsely presented yourself as Ash
WSB, a crypto trader, to the members of the public on twitter
and you thereby committed an offence of impersonation contrary
to and punishable under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal
Code Law, 2017".
Both defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charge.
Upon their guilty plea, Justice Bello convicted and sentenced
the defendants to three months imprisonment and a fine of
N100, 000,00. Failure to pay the fine, they shall serve an
additional two months in prison.
The court further ordered Ahmad, to forfeit one Apple iPhone
7 and an MTN SIM card while Friday is to forfeit one Infinix
Hot 7 phone, an MTN SIM card, one Apple iPhone 7, an Airtel
SIM card and one set of Airpods to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-kaduna
**************************************
5 JUL 2022
EFCC Arraigns Fake FBI Director
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has
arraigned a fake Director of the American Federal Bureau
of Investigation, FBI, Adamu Yahaya Jiyaba before Justice
N.I. Afolabi of the Federal High Court sitting in Lafia,
Nasarawa State.
He was arraigned on a one-count charge bordering on cybercrime.
The charge reads: "that you, Adamu Yayaha Jiyaba sometime in
2022 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
attempted to commit an offence to wit: imputed a data that you
are Robert S. Muller, the FBI Director with the intention that
such inauthentic data will be considered or acted upon and you
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 13 of the Cybercrime
(Provision, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under the
same Section of the Act."
He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Justice Afolabi adjourned the matter till October 26 and 27 2022
for commencement of trial, while Jiyaba was remanded in the Lafia
Correctional Centre.
The press release contains a photo of "Mr. Mueller":
efcc-arraigns-fake-fbi-director
***********************************
5 JUL 2022
Two Convicted of Cyber-fraud in Ibadan
Justice Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan,
on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, convicted and sentenced the duo of Olalekan
Faruk Opeyemi and Abiodun Emmanuel Olalekan on a separate one count
charge each for criminal impersonation, contrary to Section 484 of
the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000 and punishable
under same Act.
The charge against Olalekan reads: "That you, Olalekan Faruk Opeyemi
"M" sometime in September, 2021 in Ibadan, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, did falsely
represented yourself as Linda Kate, an American woman, while using
the email address: farukolalekan@gmail.com which representation
you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence of impersonation
contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo
State, 2000."
The charge against Abiodun reads: “That you, Abiodun Emmanuel
Olalekan ""’ on or about the 30th day of March, 2022 at Ibadan,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent
to defraud, did falsely represented yourself as Sara Hill, which
representation you knew to be false and thereby committed an
offence of impersonation contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
The defendants who were arraigned by the Ibadan Zonal Command
of the EFCC, pleaded guilty to the charges.
Following their pleas, Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced
Olalekan to six months imprisonment and Abiodun, six months
community service.
In addition, the judge ordered that the convicts restitute their
victims and forfeit to the Federal Government, all items recovered
from them.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-convicted-of-cyber-fraud-in-ibadan
************************************
5 JUL 2022
EFCC Arraigns Man for Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on July 4, 2022, arraigned one Solomon
Akhigbe Idonije before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the
Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on a
seven-count charge to the tune of N20,080,000 bordering
on obtaining money by false pretence contrary to Section
1(1) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act, 2006.
One of the charges reads: "Solomon Akhigbe Idonije sometimes
on 21st of December 2020 in Lagos within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the
sum of N4,800,000.00 from one Iyen Omowuiugbe by falsely
representing to him that the money was for Forex Trade through
Solomon Ace Forex Investments and that as an investor, will
be entitled to 25% ROI (Return on Investment) in 25 days,
whereas you used the money to offset your debts to other
investors in your company."
Another count reads: "Solomon Akhigbe Idonije sometimes on
23rd of December 2020 in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of
N4,100,000 from one Iyen Omowuiugbe by falsely representing
to him that the money was for Forex Trade through Solomon
Ace Forex Investments and that as an investor, will be entitled
to 25% ROI (Return on Investment) in 25 days, whereas you used
the money to offset your debts to other investors in your
company."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.
Thereafter, E.S. Okongwu, who held the brief of the prosecuting
counsel, G.C. Akaogu, prayed the court for a trial date in order
to enable the prosecution present its witnesses and evidence
to prove the case against the defendant.
The defence counsel, Jonathan Okagbero, however informed the
court of an application for the bail of the defendant.
Justice Taiwo, afterwards adjourned till July 13, 2022 for
hearing of the bail application, and ordered that the defendant
be remanded in EFCC custody till then.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-man-for-internet-fraud-in-lagos
**************************************
5 JUL 2022
EFCC Arrests 18 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, have arrested 18 suspected internet fraudsters in Abuja.
The suspects are: ThankGod Oche, Joshua Olohja, Adamu Abdulkadir,
David Bruno Bidemi, Emmanuel Avoh, Micheal Oche, Francis Abbah,
Kayode Itodo, Shedrack Chibuike, Okeowo Elijah.
Others are: Victor Emmanuel, Emmanuel Edache, Abah Joseph
Theophilus, Sunday Agidani, Elijah Adamu, Emmanuel Ahme,
Moses Agada and Adacole Michel.
They were arrested on July 4, 2022 at Trademore Estate,
Lugbe, Abuja, following intelligence reports received by
the Commission about their alleged involvement in internet
related fraud.
Items recovered from the suspects include a Lexus car, laptop
computers, and mobile phones.
The suspects will be charged to court after investigations
are concluded.
Thw press release includes a group photo:
efcc-arrests-18-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
***************************************
4 JUL 2022
Two Jailed for Romance Scam in Abuja
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction of two fraudsters,
Destiny Unabor and Confidence Ekeanya before Justices A.A Halilu
and S.B. Belgore of the Federal Capital Territory High Court,
Apo and Bwari respectively, for charges bordering on impersonation
and romance scam.
Unabor created a Facebook page with the name, Steven Zheng, a
Singaporean engineer, and professed love to Seika Goto and Jennifer
Chen, both Chinese nationals, in an attempt to obtain financial
benefit from them.
Upon arraignment today July 4, 2022, he pleaded guilty to a one
count charge.
In view of his plea, Justice Halilu sentenced Unabor to one year
in prison with the option of a fine of N70,000 (Seventy Thousand
Naira only). He is also to forfeit his phone and laptop to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
Similarly, Justice Belgore sentenced Ekeanya to one year in
prison with option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira only)
fine. He is also to forfeit his mobile phone and laptop and
restitute $650 (Six Hundred and Fifty US Dollars) to his victim.
He was jailed after pleading guilty to a one count charge. He
induced one Mr. Collins, an American, to deliver the sum of
$5,000 (Five Thousand US Dollars) to him over a phantom romantic
relationship while pretending to be Stephanie, based in London.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-jailed-for-romance-scam-in-abuja
************************************
4 JUL 2022
Internet Fraud: Eight Convicted in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, July 1, 2022 secured the conviction
and sentencing of eight internet fraudsters before different
Courts in Ibadan, Oyo State on separate amended one count charge
each of fraudulent impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
The offences contravene Section 22 (2) (b) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and Section 419 and 484 of the Criminal Code
Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The convicts are Alabi Gift Jesse, Sulaimon Qudus Olasukanmi, Ridwan
Gbolahan Olayiwola, Adenuga Adeniran Sunday, Afuye Adeniyi Emmanuel,
Yusuf Ademola Matthew, Adele Fuad Ayinde and Olayinka Taiwo Olaniyi.
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against them.
Upon their pleas, prosecution counsel, Mabas Mabur and Shamsuddeen
Bashir, urged the courts to convict and sentence them as charged.
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court convicted and sentenced
Jesse to eleven months imprisonment, while Justice Iyabo Yerima of the
Oyo State High Court convicted and sentenced Emmanuel and Matthew to
six months community service each.
Similarly, Justice Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo State High Court convicted
and sentenced Olasukanmi, Olayiwola, Sunday, Ayinde and Olaniyi to
six months community service each.
The convicts were ordered by the courts to restitute their various
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal
Government.
The prees release contains small photos of all 8 419ers:
internet-fraud-eight-convicted-in-ibadan
*********************************
2 JUL 2022
Court Jails One in Abuja for $10,000 Fraud
Justice C.O Agashieze of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT,
sitting in Kwali Abuja has convicted and sentenced Mayor Adonor
to a fine of N50,000( Fifty Thousand Naira) for obtaining
money under false pretence.
He was jailed on July 1, 2022 after pleading guilty to one-count
charge bordering on obtaining by false pretence, preferred against
him by the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
The count reads, "that you Mayor Adonor (AKA Zack Chang, Mayor
Mei, Alex Chang, Chen Wei and Efua Chang) sometime in 2022, at
Abuja FCT within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, through
your Facebook account cheat by pretending to be a Chinese oil and
gas engineer based in Italy and in that regard you tricked your
victim by name Karen with intent to obtain $10,000 (Ten thousand
US Dollars only) and you thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Sections 321 and 322 of the Penal Code
Act, Laws of the Federation (Abuja), 1990 respectively."
Based on his plea, Justice Agashieze convicted and sentenced
him to a fine of N50,000.
Adonor began his journey to the Correctional Centre when he was
arrested by operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the EFCC for
fraudulent dealings. He was prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-one-in-abuja-for-10-000-fraud
*****************************************
1 JUL 2022
Fake America Military Officer, One Other Jailed For Cybercrime
in Ilorin
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court, Ilorin on Friday
July 1, 2022, convicted and sentenced one Adesanya Adeolu Tosin, a
300-Level Student of Federal University, Lokoja to one-year imprisonment
for posing as America Military Officer to defraud his unsuspecting
victims.
Adesanya was convicted alongside one Usman Abubakar from Ofu Local
Government Area of Kogi State.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, arraigned the duo on separate charges bordering on cybercrime and
retention of proceeds of unlawful activities.
The defendants pleaded guilty when the charges were read to them.
Following his guilty pleas, Innocent Mbachie and Sesan Ola who prosecuted
the cases on behalf of the Commission reviewed the facts of the cases and
tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants, phones, drafts
which they brought as restitution to their victims and fraudulent messages
printed from his devices, which were admitted in evidence.
They urged the Court to convict the defendants in line with their pleas.
Justice Sani in his judgment said from the totality of evidence brought
by the prosecution, the court was convinced that the EFCC has proved its
cases beyond reasonable doubt and subsequently convicted the defendants
as charged.
The judge sentenced Adesanya to one-year imprisonment with option of
N400,000 (Four Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. The court also ordered that
one iPhone 12 Pro Max which he used to perpetrate the crime and a draft
of N600,000 (Six Hundred Thousand Naira Only) which he raised as restitution
to his victims, be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Justice Sani imposed a jail term of three years on Usman with option of
N479,290.00 (Four Hundred and Seventy-Nine Thousand, Two Hundred and
Ninety Naira Only) fine. In addition, the convict is to forfeit his
iPhone X 5 and Samsung s8 which he used to perpetrate the crime and
also restitute the sum of N279,290.00 (Two Hundred and Seventy Nine
Thousand, Two Hundred and Ninety Naira ) to his victim.
fake-america-military-officer-one-other-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*****************************************
1 JUL 2022
Employment Scam: Abuja Court Sends Self-styled SA
to EFCC Chairman to Prison
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on June 30, 2022, secured the conviction of
one Obochi Simeon Iwodi before Justice A.O. Musa of the Federal
Capital Territory High Court, Apo, Abuja on a one count charge
bordering on cheating by impersonation.
While posing as Special Adviser to the EFCC Chairman, the
defendant induced some job seekers to pay various sums to him
on the pretext that he would help facilitate their employment
into the EFCC.
The count reads, "that you, Obochi Simeon Iwodi, between August
2020 and August 2021 within the Judicial Division of the Federal
Territory High Court, Abuja did cheat by pretending to be the
Special Adviser (SA) to Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, Chairman, Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC carried out an illegal act
by inducing one Abah Job Ebute and others to deliver to you the
aggregate sum of N1,800,000 (One Million Eight Hundred Thousand Naira)
under the guise that you are capable of giving them employment in
EFCC, a fact you know to be false and you thereby committed an offence
of Cheating by Personation contrary to Section 321 of the Penal Code
Act, Laws of the Federation (Abuja), 1990 and punishable under
Section 324 of the same Law".
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his guilty plea, Justice Musa sentenced Iwodi, who had
restituted his victims in full, to one year in prison with an option
of N700, 000 (Seven Hundred Thousand Naira) fine.
employment-scam-abuja-court-sends-self-styled-sa-to-efcc-chairman-to-prison
*************************************
1 JUL 2022
Cybercrime: Oyo Court Jails Two
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, June 30, 2022 secured the conviction
and sentencing of the duo of Alani Ridwan Kalejaye and Ishola
Abdullahi Ademola before Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High
Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State on separate one count charge
which bordered on impersonation.
The defendants were arraigned on Monday, June 27, 2022, and they
pleaded guilty to the charges filed against them by the EFCC.
The prosecution counsel reviewed the facts of the cases and tendered
documents in evidence before urging the court to convict and sentence
them as charged.
Consequently, Justice Agomoh convicted the duo and adjourned the
matter to June 30, 2022 for sentencing.
At the resumed hearing, Justice Agomoh sentenced Alani Ridwan Kalejaye
and Ishola Abdullahi Ademola to four and six months imprisonment respectively.
The court further ordered that the convicts restitute their various victims
and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government.
The charge against Alani reads: "That you, Alani Ridwan Kalejaye sometime
in September, 2021, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with
intent to gain advantage for yourself did impersonate one Anna Thomas, the
pretext you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of
the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015."
The charge against Ishola reads: "That you, Ishola Abdullahi Ademola
sometime in December, 2021, within the jurisdiction of the Honourable
Court, with intent to gain advantage for yourself did impersonate one
Kimberly Sandra, the pretext you knew to be false and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under
Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention
etc.)Act, 2015."
cybercrime-oyo-court-jails-two
*******************************
30 JUN 2022
Shun Cybercrime, Bawa Charges NYSC Members
The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
Abdulrasheed Bawa, has charged Nigerian youths to shun cybercrime
and other forms of criminality. Bawa stated this today, June 30,
2022 at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Okada Town, Edo State while
delivering a lecture on the Role of Youths in Curbing Cybercrime.
Bawa, who was represented by Williams Oseghale, Head, Public Affairs
Department, Benin Zonal Command, stated that the youths were critical
in the fight against economic and financial crimes. "Apart from the
fact that they are considered as leaders of tomorrow, most economic
crimes, especially cyber crimes are committed by young people. It
therefore follows that young people must not be mere spectators
in the anti-graft campaign, rather they should be foot soldiers
leading the mass rout of corruption and economic crimes out of
our land".
The EFCC boss urged the youths to embrace hard work as there is
no shortcut to wealth and fame. "Acts of criminality might deliver
wealth in the short term but ultimately they lead to misery".
At the NYSC camp at Iyana Ipaja, the EFCC chairman who was represented
by Ayo Oyewole, Head, PAD, Lagos Command reiterated the together-against-
corruption call and urged Nigerian youths to lend a hand in building a
society where there is respect for law and order and where impunity is
a thing of the past.
He described the youth as catalysts in the fight against corruption
and urged them to become whistleblowers wherever they find themselves
by reporting acts that fail the simple test of integrity.
At the NYSC Orientation Camp, Ise/Emure/Oru, Ekiti State, Gbenga
Adewoye of the Public Affairs Department, Ilorin Zonal Command, who
delivered the Chairman's message charged the corps members to take
ownership of the fight against graft. "The Commission cannot do it
alone, I beseech you all this morning to take ownership of the fight
against corruption and contribute your quota for the betterment of
this country," he said
Speaking at the NYSC Camp at Kiama, Bayelsa State, the EFCC boss who
was represented by Bako Aliyu Doma, Head, Foreign Exchange Malpractice
Section, FEMS tasked the corps members to be anti-graft agents by
enlisting as foot soldiers in the fight against economic and financial
crimes in the country.
“Be role models in your respective areas of primary assignments. Join
EFCC/NYSC Community Development Service, CD Groups for more enduring
and robust engagement."
In a similar message delivered by Bassey Prince Effiong, Head, Cyber
Crimes Section at NYSC Camp, Umunna, Bende Local Government Area, Abia
State, he warned the corps members to shun internet fraud as it was
capable of truncating their future.
At the Orientation Camp at Nonwa-gbam, Tai Local Government Area,
Rivers State, Akpos Ekisowei, Head, PAD, Port Harcourt Zonal Command
called on the corps members to embrace hard work and shun inordinate
ambition.
The same message was simultaneously delivered by Adeniran Adebayo,
Head, PAD, Makudi at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Wannune, Tarka LGA,
Benue State just as Nana Fatima Abubakar of PAD delivered the message
at the NYSC Orientation camp in Kaduna.
The duo of Chika Uneke and Mary Ogolekwu were at the NYSC Orientation
camp at Issele Uku, Delta State and Ikare-Akoko Ondo State respectively
to deliver the EFCC chairman's message.
Some other officers were at various NYSC camps across the nation to
deliver the Executive Chairman's message of accountability, transparency,
probity and integrity to thousands of corps members.
shun-cybercrime-bawa-charges-nysc-members
**************************************
30 JUN 2022
Another Yahoo Boy Convicted for Cybercrime in Oyo
Justice Bayo Taiwo of an Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan,
today, Thursday, June 30, 2022, convicted and sentenced one Shotayo
Shola Olayinka to six months community service on a one-count charge
of impersonation.
The one count charge reads, "that you, Shotayo Shola Olayinka 'M'
on or about the 11th of February, 2022 in Ibadan within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, created a profile on
a dating website with the email rebeccawayne31@gmail.com whereby you
represented yourself with the name Rebecca Wayne, an American from
Washington DC, and by this means you obtained benefits and gained
advantage (including benefiting from one Martin Galusha the sum of
$190 Dollars and other benefits including an iPhone pro mobile handset
and an HP laptop), a pretext which you knew to be false, and you
thereby committed an offence."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge when read to him.
Consequently, the prosecution counsel, Sanusi Galadanchi informed
the court that the convict had entered into a "plea bargain" agreement
with the Commission. He reviewed the facts of the case, tendered the
documents and confessional statements of the defendant which were
admitted in evidence. He then urged the court to convict and sentence
Shotayo as charged.
Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced Shotayo to six months community
service.
The convict was ordered to restitute his victims and forfeit all items
recovered from him to the Federal Government.
another-yahoo-boy-convicted-for-cybercrime-in-oyo
************************************
30 JUN 2022
Court Sends Four Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Ibadan
Justices Olusola Adetuoye, Ladiran Akintola and Omolara Adeyemi
of Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, have convicted and
sentenced Jamilu Umaru Muhammad, Hammed Ayomide Rasheed, Aigoro
Afeez Olabanji and Olatunji Gbolahan Toheeb to six months community
service each for internet fraud.
The convicts were jailed on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 after pleading
guilty to one-count separate charge bordering on obtaining by false
pretences, upon their arraignment by the Ibadan Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Commission, EFCC.
The charge against Jamilu reads, "That you, Jamilu Umaru Muhammad
"M" on or about 30th March, 2022, at Ibadan, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the sum
of $300USD (Three Hundred United States Dollars) from one Shaun
Stenstorm by falsely representing to her that it is a deposit
towards her winning of $2,400USD and other pretences, which pretences
you knew to be false. Obtaining money by false pretence contrary to
Section 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
The charge against Hammed reads: “That you, Hammed Ayomide Rasheed
"M" on or about the 29th of October 2021 in Ibadan within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud, created a profile on a
dating website with the email lanareynolds78@gmail.com whereby you
represented yourself with the name Jose Ernesto, an American, and by
this means you obtained benefits and gained advantage (including benefiting
from your victims the sum of $1,000 Dollars), a pretext which you knew to
be false, and you thereby committed an offence of impersonation contrary
to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
They pleaded “guilty” to the offences when read to them.
Based on their pleas, EFCC’s counsel, Mabas Mabur prayed the court to
convict and sentence them accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Adetujoye convicted and sentenced Muhammed to six
months community service, Justice Akintola convicted and sentenced Rasheed
to six months community service, while Justice Adeyemi also convicted and
sentenced Olabanji and Toheeb to six months community service respectively.
The convicts were ordered by the court to restitute their various victims
and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government of
Nigeria.
Specifically, Olabanji was ordered by the court to restitute his victim,
the sum of $1,300USD (One Thousand Three Hundred United States Dollars)
while Toheeb is to pay the sum of $1,600USD (One Thousand Six Hundred
United States Dollars) in restitution to his victims, and forfeit one
gold -coloured iPhone 12 Pro Max mobile phone to the government.
court-sends-four-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-ibadan
********************************
29 JUN 2022
NANS Seeks Collaboration with EFCC in Tackling Cybercrime
The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Zone B,
South-South Zone, has indicated its readiness to collaborate
with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in
the fight against internet crimes on campuses within the region.
The Association expressed this resolve on Wednesday, June 22,
2022 in Port Harcourt while its leaders paid a Courtesy Visit
to the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the EFCC.
Leader of the Association, Comrade Levi Okuru, conveyed NANS'
satisfaction with the EFCC, for its tireless efforts in the fight
against economic and financial crimes, most importantly, cybercrimes,
and called for collaboration with the Commission in combating the
crime among students.
"We came here today because we feel this Commission is working for
the good of the nation... So, having partnership with a Commission
like this will guide us to be good future leaders. As such, NANS
in the zone is looking forward to propose a campus to campus anti-
cybercrime sensitization tour and this will cut across the zone.
The zone comprises all the states in South-South and their
Universities", he said.
Okuru also commended the EFCC for growing the national economy
by fighting every threat to its development. "One of our problems
is the economy, so, if you see an agency that is ready to fight
those that are making our economy not to grow, we should be able
to appreciate it", he said.
While receiving the NANS delegation on behalf of the Commission,
the Port Harcourt's Zonal Commander, Assistant Commander of the
EFCC, ACE Nwanneka Nwokike commended the student leaders for the
visit.
"I thank you for coming here today most especially, the leadership
of NANS in the South-South Zone, I am happy that we are having some
young people who can boldly come forward for this kind of visit."
He called on Nigerian youths not to be in a hurry to make money
but to be hard-working and patient. "No situation should make our
youths to do wrong things", he said.
nans-seeks-collaboration-with-efcc-in-tackling-cybercrime
***************************************
29 JUN 2022
Man Bags Jail Term for Internet Fraud in Abuja
The Abuja Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on June 29, 2022, secured the conviction of one Yusuf Abass
before Justice S. U. Bature of the FCT High Court, Maitama, Abuja,
on a one count charge bordering on internet fraud.
The charge reads, "that you, Yusuf Abass between February and May
2022 at Abuja within the Judicial Division of the High Court of
the Federal Capital Territory by deceiving did attempt to cheat
the duo of Bich Van Bui and Winnie Chu, Indian nationals, by
representing yourself as one Babul Khan through the means of
your email sananurgag242@gmail.com and Facebook page with profile
name Babul Khan and professing love to them in facilitation of
your attempt to obtain financial benefit to yourself which
representation you knew to be false and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 95 of the Penal Code Act, Laws
of the Federation (Abuja), 1990 and punishable under Section
322 of the same Law."
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Consequently, Justice Bature convicted and sentenced Abass to
three months in prison with an option of N200, 000 (Two Hundred
Thousand Naira only) fine.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-bags-jail-term-for-internet-fraud-in-abuja
***************************************
29 JUN 2022
Ado-Ekiti Yahoo-Boy Jailed Two Years, Loses N13m Car to FG
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction of one Olukayode
Emmanuel Olamilekan from Akure, Ondo State for offences bordering
on cybercrime.
Olukayode, 26, was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment
by Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court, Ilorin after he
was found guilty of the two-count charges levelled against him by
the EFCC.
The convict was among the thirty suspected internet fraudsters
arrested in Ado-Ekiti on April 26, 2022 during a sting operation.
Investigation into the matter revealed that Olukayode, who is
currently jobless is into internet fraud and had benefited several
millions of naira from his fraudulent activities, part of which
he used to purchase a Mercedes Benz ML 350 for N13million.
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Following his guilty plea, counsel to the EFCC, Sesan Ola, reviewed
the facts of the case. He tendered the extra-judicial statements
of the defendant, phones, HP laptop and the car recovered from him
at the point of arrest as well as fraudulent messages printed from
his devices, which were admitted in evidence.
Ola urged the court to convict the defendant in line with his plea
and the exhibits tendered before it.
Justice Sani in his judgement said he found merit in the case of
the prosecution and consequently convicted the defendant.
The judge sentenced Olukayode to one-year imprisonment on counts
one and two with option of N300,000 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira
Only) fine on each count.
The court also ordered the forfeiture of one iPhone 12, infinix x
65, HP laptop and Mercedes Benz ML 350 recovered from the convict,
to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
ado-ekiti-yahoo-boy-jailed-two-years-loses-n13m-car-to-fg
********************************************
28 JUN 2022
AC Technician, Three Others Jailed for Cybercrime in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction of one Pelumi Oluwatimileyin Sunday, an
air conditioner technician, over offences bordering on cybercrime.
Pelumi was sentenced alongside three others over similar offence. They
are Uloko George Ojonugwa, a student of Federal University, Lokoja;
Godspower Fatodun Sesan from Ilawe-Ekiti in Ekiti South-West Local
Government Area of Ekiti State and one Blessing Tope Abejide.
The quartet of Pelumi, Uloko, Godspower and Blessing were prosecuted
on separate charges before Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High
Court sitting in Ilorin.
They all pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
Following their pleas, Innocent Mbachie and Sesan Ola who prosecuted
the cases on behalf of the EFCC reviewed the facts of the cases. They
tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants, phones and
laptops recovered from them at the point of arrest and all the fraudulent
messages printed from their devices, which the court admitted in evidence.
The prosecuting counsel urged the court to convict the defendants in
line with the guilty plea entered by them, their confessional statements
and all the exhibits tendered.
Justice Sani in his judgement on Monday, June 27, 2022 said the court
was satisfied that the prosecution had proved its cases beyond reasonable
doubt and pronounced them guilty.
Consequently, the judge sentenced Pelumi to three years imprisonment
with option of N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine.
Godspower bagged two years imprisonment with option of N324, 817 (Three
Hundred and Twenty Four Thousand, Eight Hundred and Seventeen Naira) fine.
The court also ordered that the phones, which the convict used to perpetrate
the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Uloko was equally sentenced to three years imprisonment with option of
N739, 468.00 (Seven Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Four Hundred and
Sixty Eight Naira Only) fine.
The court also sentenced Blessing to one year imprisonment on count
one with option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine and
three years imprisonment on count two or a fine of one hundred percent
of what he benefited.
ac-technician-three-others-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*************************************
28 JUN 2022
Man Bags Six Months Jail Term for Attempted Fraud in Abuja
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on June 27, 2022, secured the conviction of
Matins Daniel before Justice Binta Dogonyaro of the FCT High
Court, Apo, Abuja, on a one count charge bordering on attempt
to cheat by personation.
The charge reads, "that you, Matins Daniel sometime in 2020 at
Abuja within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal
Capital Territory attempted to commit an offence to wit: created
an Instagram profile with the name Malcolm, an American citizen,
with the intention to cheat by personation for financial gains,
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 95 of
the Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation (Abuja), 1990 and
punishable under Section 324 of the same Law."
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
Consequently, Justice Dogonyaro convicted and sentenced 23-year-old
Daniel to six months in prison with an option of N100, 000 (One Hundred
Thousand Naira only) fine.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-bags-six-months-jail-term-for-attempted-fraud-in-abuja
*****************************************
27 JUN 2022
Two Jailed for Internet Fraud in Abuja
Justice S.B Belgore of the High Court of the FCT sitting in Bwari,
Abuja today, June 27, 2022, convicted and sentenced one Augustine
Ogar and Eze Samuel to one year imprisonment for internet fraud.
They were prosecuted on a one count charge each by the Abuja Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Ogar's charge reads: "that you, Augustine Ogar sometime in 2020
within the jurisdiction of the Honourable Court by deceiving while
pretending to be a medical doctor, Thomas White from USA through
the means of Facebook and Hangout account created with jameswhite@gmail.com
cheated by inducing one Karen Gilbert from America to deliver to you
the sum of N515,000 (Five Hundred and Fifteen Thousand Naira only)in
the guise of assisting her in getting drugs for her ailment, a fact
which you knew to be false and that you thereby committed an offense
contrary to Section 320 (b) and punishable under Section 322 of the
Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation (Abuja),1990".
Eze on his part, was arraigned for attempting to cheat unsuspecting
victims while pretending to be in romantic relationships with them.
They both pleaded guilty to the charges.
Following their guilty pleas, Justice Belgore convicted and sentenced
both to one year jail term. The court however gave Ogar the option of
a fine of N150,000(One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira only), and
Eze, N50,000(Fifty Thousand Naira only).
Ogar will in addition forfeit his laptop and mobile phone to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
two-jailed-for-internet-fraud-in-abuja
**********************************
27 JUN 2022
Court Sends 10 Fraudsters to Jail in Uyo
Justices Toyin Bolaji Adegoke and Agatha Okeke of the Federal
High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State have convicted and
sentenced ten(10) fraudsters to different jail terms for different
offences.
They were convicted on Friday, June 24, 2022 after pleading guilty
to one-count separate charges upon their arraignment by the Uyo
Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
While eight of the convicts: Amos Richard Perekime, Ben Goodluck,
Solomon Oghenefejiro Daniel, Ugbabe Ogah Nelson, Prosper Oweifah,
Christopher Samuel Akpan, Ojei Ekene Franklin and Uzobo Lucky Divine
pleaded guilty to one-count charge bordering on criminal impersonation
and obtaining by false pretense, the other two convicts : Ekere Ekong
and Obot Eshiet pleaded guilty to a charge bordering on obtaining by
false pretences.
The lone count reads: "That you, Prosper Oweifah sometime in 2022
in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent
to obtain property and gain advantage for yourself, fraudulently presented
yourself as David Fumero, a medical doctor from Turkey to one Leslie Akers
and obtained the sum of $500 from her and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and (ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (b) (iv) of the
same Act".
Prosecution counsel, E. Ubokudom and Adebayo Soares prayed the court
to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly. However, defence
counsel, Ndifreke Inyang-Ette pleaded for leniency and lighter sentence.
Adegoke convicted and sentenced Perekime, Goodluck, Daniel, Nelson and
Oweifah to one year imprisonment each, without an option of a fine and
sentenced Ekong and Eshiet to two years imprisonment each, without an
option of fine. The other three defendants: Akpan, Franklin and Divine
were convicted and sentenced by Justice Okeke to three months, one month
and six months jail terms respectively, without any option of fine.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when they were
arrested on different dates, and at different locations within Uyo, Akwa
Ibom State and Calabar, Cross River State for different offences. Perekime,
Goodluck, Daniel, Nelson and Oweifah, Akpan, Franklin and Divine were
prosecuted and convicted for impersonating foreigners and defrauding their
victims, mostly foreigners of various sums of money, while Ekong and
Eshiet sold a plot of land to a petitioner in the Shelter Afrique area
of Uyo for N9,000, 000( Nine Million Naira only) only for the petitioner
to discover that the land belonged to someone else entirely. They neither
returned the money to the petitioner nor offered him an alternative plot
of land.
The press release contains small photos of some of the 419ers:
court-sends-10-fraudsters-to-jail-in-uyo
***********************************
27 JUN 2022
Cyber-Fraud: Three Convicted, Forfeit N17.2m in Oyo
A Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday, June
24, 2022 convicted the trio of Olashoju Mohammed Abiodun, Eniatimo
Oludare Samson and Olaniran Abiodun for internet-related fraud.
The convicts were arraigned on separate one count charges each for
offences relating to cyber-fraud.
The charge against Abiodun reads: "That you, Olashoju Mohammed Abiodun
'M' (aka Clara Walta) sometime in 2021, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, impersonated one Clara Walta,
a Brazilian woman by which you obtained benefits and gained advantage,
a pretext which you knew to be false and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under Section 22 (2)
(b) (iv) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015."
The charge against Samson reads, “That you, Eniatimo Oludare Samson
sometime in July 2021 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
with intent to defraud, knowingly impersonated one Clifford Allen,
when you falsely represented yourself as such to one Natasha Stansel
Laird via your Gmail Account in order to gain advantage for yourself
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition,
Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b)
of the same Act."
The charge against Abiodun reads: "That you, Olaniran Abiodun sometime
in 2020, within the jurisdiction of this Honourabel Court, did aid some
suspected internet fraudsters now at large to commit felony, to wit:
impersonation, to gain advantage for themselves and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 27 (1) (b) and punishable under Section
27 (2) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015."
They pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against them.
Afterwards, the prosecution counsel, Abdulrasheed Suleiman reviewed
the facts of the cases, tendered documents as evidence and urged the
court to convict and sentence them as charged.
Consequently, Justice Agomoh convicted and sentenced Abiodun to nine
months imprisonment, Samson five months imprisonment while Abiodun
bagged seven months jail term.
Also, the court ordered that Samson pay the sum of N11, 733, 248.74
(Eleven Million, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Three Thousand, Two Hundred
and Forty-Eight Naira, Seventy-Four Kobo) warehoused in his First Bank
account and the sum of N153, 647.67 (One Hundred and Fifty-Three
Thousand, Six Hundred and Forty-Seven Naira, Sixty-Seven Kobo) found
in his United Bank of Africa account as restitution.
The press release includes photos of the 419ers:
cyber-fraud-three-convicted-forfeit-n17-2m-in-oyo
***************************************
22 JUN 2022
Two FBI- Wanted Fraudsters Bag Seven Years in Enugu
Justice Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court sitting in Enugu
has convicted and sentenced two fraudsters on the Watch List of
the American Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, to seven years
imprisonment for internet- related offences.
The convicts: Uchechukwu Solomon Ezirim and Dike George Chimezie
got their jail terms on different dates in the same court. While
Ezirim was jailed on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, Chimezie was convicted
on Friday, June 10, 2022.
Ezirim's conviction was based on his trial by the Enugu Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on
two- count charges bordering on forgery, impersonation and obtaining
money from unsuspecting foreign nationals under false pretences.
One of the charges against him read: "that you,Uchechukwu Solomon
Ezirim with one Chukwudi Igbokwe currently serving prison term in
the United States of America.) sometimes between 2015 and 2017 at
Owerri ,Imo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
dealt with the card of another person and thereby committed an
offence contrary to and punishable under Section 34 of the of the
Money Laundering Act (Prohibition ,Prevention, Etc), 2015."
Justice Buba convicted and sentenced him to three years imprisonment
with an option of fine of N1,000,000( One Million Naira). Chimezie,
on the other hand was sentenced to four years imprisonment with an
option of forfeiting five times the amount he benefited from the crime.
He benefited N766,000 from the crime and he is to forfeit N3,830,000
( Three Million , Eight Hundred and Thirty Million Naira) in lieu
of prison terms.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when they
were placed on a Watch List by the FBI for impersonation and cybercrimes.
They were later arrested by operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of
the EFCC and charged to court. Their trials ran a full course leading
to their eventual conviction.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er
two-fbi-wanted-fraudsters-bag-seven-years-in-enugu
*****************************************
22 JUN 2022
Three Cybercriminals Bag Community Service Terms in Oyo, Osun
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, secured the conviction of the trio of
Seun Omotayo Oladele, Dauda Sodiq Adegoke and Yusuf Idris Damola before
Justices Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal High Court, Osogbo, Osun State and
Omolara Adeyemi of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State.
They were arraigned on separate one count charges for bordering on cybercrime.
The charge against Oladele reads, "That you, Seun Omotayo Oladele 'M'
on or about the 6th day of May, 2019 within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court fraudulently impersonated one Kate Michael via your
Google Gmail account with Gmail address kate43620@gmail.com with intent
to gain monetary advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b)
of the same Act."
The charge against Damola reads: " That you, Yusuf Idris Damola 'M' on
or about the 29th day of October, 2021 at Ibadan, Oyo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud, obtained
the total sum of $2,667.09 (Two Thousand, Six Hundred and Sixty Seven
United States Dollars, Nine Cent) through your Bitcoin Wallet from an
unsuspecting victim from United States of America by falsely representing
that you are a female by the name Karly Holman, and other pretences,
which you knew to be false, and obtaining property by false pretence
contrary to Section 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, laws of Oyo
State, 2000."
Justice Ayo-Emmanuel convicted and sentenced Oladele to six months
community service that will involve the cleaning of toilets at Criminal
Investigation Department, Osun State Police Command in Osogbo for
six months.
Similarly, Justice Adeyemi convicted and sentenced Dauda Sodiq Adegoke
and Yusuf Idris Damola to six months community service each.
Also, the convicts were ordered to restitute their victims and forfeit
all items recovered from them to the Federal Government.
The charge against Adegoke reads, "That you, Dauda Sodiq Adegoke on
or about the 29th day of October, 2021 at Ibadan, Oyo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud,
impersonated John Marshall, a white man from the United State of
America, an offence contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code
Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
They pleaded "guilty" to the charges filed against them by the EFCC.
Upon their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Samsuddeen Bashir and Sanusi
Galadanchi urged the courts to convict and sentence them as charged.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
three-cybercriminals-bag-community-service-terms-in-oyo-osun
**************************************
21 JUN 2022
Engineer, POS Operator Jailed for Cybercrime in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction a certain Oyewole
Maruf Damilare, who claimed to be an Engineer from Ifedore Local
Government Area of Osun State and one Olusanya Idowu Lukman,
a PoS operator from Remo North Local Government Area of Ogun
State.
Justice Mahmoud Abdulgafar of the Kwara State High Court, Ilorin
convicted and sentenced the duo to various jail terms, having found
them guilty of offences bordering on cybercrime and possession
of proceeds of illegal activities levelled against them by the EFCC.
The Commission arraigned Oyewole on two count charges of cheating
by personation and possession of proceeds of unlawful activities,
while Olusanya was prosecuted on one count of personation whence
he allegedly posed as one Lena Kincy on Facebook to scam unsuspecting
victim.
The defendants were arrested on April 22, 2022 at Agric Estate,
Ilorin, Kwara State by operatives of EFCC following intelligence
reports on the activities of some internet fraudsters operating
in the area.
They pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
Rasheedat Alao who represented the Commission in the two cases
reviewed the facts of the cases. She presented witnesses who are
operatives of the Commission. The witnesses, while testifying
tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants, different
brand of phones recovered from them at the point of arrest and
several fraudulent messages printed from their devices, which
were admitted in evidence.
Thereafter, Alao urged the court to consider the guilty pleas,
the extra judicial statements of the defendants and all the
exhibits tendered before it to convict the defendants as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Abdulgafar said the court had carefully
evaluated the evidence placed before it, the guilty plea of by
the defendants and all the exhibits tendered and he was convinced
that the prosecution had not only established the elements of the
alleged offences against the defendants, but had proved it beyond
reasonable doubt.
He sentenced Oyewole to three months imprisonment on count 1 with
option N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only) and
six months' imprisonment on count 2 with option N500,000 (Five
Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine. The court ordered that one
iPhone 12 which he used to perpetrate the crime and the sum of
$400 (Four Hundred United States Dollars), which he benefited
from the illegal activities be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Justice Abdulgafar sentenced Olusanya to six months
imprisonment with option N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira Only) fine. The judge also ordered that the iPhone 11 and
Apple MacBook laptop, which the convict used to perpetrate the
crime and the sum of $400 (Four Hundred United States Dollars)
which he benefited from the crime be forfeited to the Federal
Government.
The press release contains a photo of two 419ers:
engineer-pos-operator-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*********************************************
21 JUN 2022
Court Sends Three Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court sitting in
Benin City on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, convicted and sentenced
three internet fraudsters to prison for fraud.
The trio, Osahenkhoe Godstime, David Courage Omkagbo, Obikolu
Lawrence Chuwuneku, were arraigned on one count charge each by
the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC for fraudulent impersonation
and obtaining by false pretence.
The charge against Godstime reads: "that you, Osahenkhoe Godstime
(M) between 2020 to October 2022in Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate the identity
of one Ashleefx3, an American on your Instagram account with intent
to defraud unsuspecting investors in bitcoin business and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484
of the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as
applicable in Edo State) 1976".
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, I. K. Agwai prayed
the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, the
defence counsel, Aitenoria Philip pleaded with the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendants were remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the defendants to three
years imprisonment each. The duo of Godstime and Omokagbo were given
an option of N100, 000 fine each while Chukwuneku got an option of
N150,000 fine.
The court also ordered Godstime and Omokagbo to forfeit their cars,
Lexus RX350 and Mercedes Benz GLK 2015 model, and mobile phones to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each of the 419ers:
court-sends-three-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin
********************************************
21 JUN 2022
Cyber-Fraud: Yahoo Boy to Wash Toilet for Eight Months in Osun
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday, June 20, 2022, secured five convictions
before the Federal and State High Courts in Ibadan, Oyo State and
Osogbo, Osun State respectively.
Among the convicts is Amusa Abdulhakeem Oluwasegunfunmi, a final
year student of Transport Planning Management at Tai Solarin University,
Ijebu Ode, Ogun State who was sentenced to eight months community
service for fraudulent impersonation. The others are Amusa Abdulhakeem
Oluwasegunfunmi, Ajisafe Sodiq Olaide, Lawal Samuel Morenikeji, Osuolale
Abdullahi Abiodun, and Olamilekan Ridwan Taofeek.
They were convicted on separate one count charges each for offences
relating to cyber-fraud.
Upon their arraignments, they pleaded “guilty” to the charges preferred
against them by the EFCC.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel urged the courts to
convict and sentence them accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal High Court, Osogbo,
Osun State convicted and sentenced Oluwasegunfunmi, to eight months
community service for fraudulent impersonation, contrary to section
22 (2) (b) (1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act,
2015.
The sentence requires him to clean the toilets at Ataoja School of
Science, Osogbo, Osun State.
Also, the court ordered that the convict’s attendance register be kept
by the School Principal and submitted on completion of his term.
Similarly, Justice Iyabo Yerima of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan,
sentenced Ajisafe Sodiq Olaide to six months community service for
obtaining money by false pretence, contrary to Section 419 of the
Criminal Code Cap 38 Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
In the same vein, Justice Omolara Adeyemi of the Oyo State High Court
convicted and sentenced Lawal Samuel Morenikeji to six months community
service; Osuolale Abdullahi Abiodun and Olamilekan Ridwan Taofeek to
one week community service as their offences violate Section 484 of
the Criminal Code Cap 38 Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
The courts ordered that the convicts restitute their victims and
forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government.
The press release contains small photos of fice 419ers:
cyber-fraud-yahoo-boy-to-wash-toilet-for-eight-months-in-osun
*******************************************
21 JUN 2022
EFCC Charges Students on Commitment to Anti-Corruption Fight
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, has called on students across the country to
shun economic and financial crimes and join the EFCC to drive the anti-
graft war more vigorously.
He gave the charge on Monday, June 20, 2022 in Abuja, when students
of Divine Mercy Nursery and Primary School came on a study tour of
the EFCC at the Commission’s Headquarters.
According to him, students hold the ace of the future of Nigeria and
their involvement in the fight against corrupt practices is imperative.
The EFCC's boss, who spoke through Deputy Commander of the EFCC, DCE
Nwayinma Okeanu explained that economic crimes are counter-productive
to the development of nations and enjoined them not to allow themselves
to be drawn into them.
"Economic crimes are a dent on the image and progress of every nation.
It is very good you know this, so that we can collectively fight to prevent
them. I am so happy today to be talking to young people who will change the
face of this country", he said.
Speaking on cybercrimes, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Daniel
Nwaka took the students through the meaning, dimension, dangers and
attendant consequences of cybercrimes, including impersonation, obtaining
under false pretence, cyber bullying and forgery, among others. He charged
the students to spread the anti-corruption message anywhere they found
themselves.
Other officers that spoke with the students are Assistant Commander of
the EFCC, ACE Tony Orilade and Head of Enlightenment and Re-orientation
Unit of the Commission, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Aisha Mohammed.
While Orilade took the students through the organogram and various departments
in the EFCC and their respective functions, Mohammed encouraged them to obey
their parents and teachers as every criminality usually starts from little
things as disobedience.
"I want you all to be EFCC ambassadors, so when you get home, tell your
parents and classmates about corruption and how to fight it. I also encourage
your teachers to write to us so that we can inaugurate the EFCC Integrity
Club in your school, because I know you are now our ambassadors"
The Head Girl of the school, Amarachi Dibor, thanked the EFCC for the
wonderful opportunity afforded her colleagues through the study tour.
"We greatly appreciate the EFCC for exposing us to what you do for our
great nation, we hope and pray that your work will help to produce a
better Nigeria", she said.
The press release contains a group photo:
efcc-charges-students-on-commitment-to-anti-corruption-fight
******************************************
17 JUN 2022
Court Sends Five Internet Fraudsters To Jail In Uyo
Justice Agatha Okeke of the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo,
Akwa Ibom State, has convicted and sentenced five internet fraudsters:
Henry Nwankwo, Miracle Okoroji, Peter Chima, Okon Mike Edem and
Francis Victor Akpan to various terms of imprisonment for cybercrimes.
They were convicted on Thursday, June 16, 2022 after pleading guilty
to charges bordering on criminal impersonation, upon being arraigned
by the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC.
Four of the convicts: Nwankwo, Okoroji, Chima and Akpan were arraigned
on one-count separate charge while Edem answered to two-counts for
being in possession of fraudulent documents and impersonation.
One of the charges read: "That you, Miracle Okoroji sometime in 2022
in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court with intent
to obtain property and gain advantage for yourself, fraudulently presented
yourself as Jim William an American to your victims on Instagram and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and (
ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention E.T.C.) Act 2015 and
punishable under Section 22 (b) (iv) of the same Act".
They all pleaded "guilty" to their various charges, and in view of
their pleas, counsels to the EFCC, S. S. Aribido and Joshua Abolarin
thereafter prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly. However, defence counsels: Rose Esenowo, Victor James
and Udeme Tom prayed the court for leniency in sentencing them.
Justice Okeke convicted and sentenced them as follows: Edem to six
months imprisonment on each of the two counts, without an option of
fine, while Chima, Nwankwo, Okoroji and Akpan bagged six months, three
months, one month and three months jail terms respectively without
an option of fine. All the sentences run concurrently.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when they
were arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC
for internet-related offences. They were later prosecuted and convicted.
court-sends-five-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-uyo
*************************************
17 JUN 2022
Man Bags Two Years Imprisonment for Internet Fraud
in Nasarawa
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on June 15, 2022, secured the conviction and
sentencing of one Seigiru Dauda Mohammed before Justice Nehizena
Afolabi of the Federal High Court, Lafia, Nasarawa State on one
count charge for his involvement in Internet fraud.
The charge reads: "That you, Seigiru Dauda Mohammed sometime in
2020 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent
to defraud created a username-Pep marine in Telegram group, with
which you charted with one John Terugwa Nanev to buy bitcoin worth
$789 (Seven Hundred and Eighty Nine USD), that you materially
misrepresented the fact and caused him a loss and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under section 14 (2) of the
Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015".
The defendant pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
Upon his plea, the prosecution counsel, G. G. Chia-Yakua prayed
the Court to convict and sentence him as charged.
Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced Mohammed to two years
imprisonment.
The convict was ordered to closed an OPay account, being a tool
used in committing fraud and forfeit N200,000 in the said account
to Federal Government of Nigeria.
man-bags-two-years-imprisonment-for-internet-fraud-in-nasarawa
********************************************
17 JUN 2022
Courts Convict Three Cybercriminals in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, June 16, 2022, secured the conviction
of the trio of Warees Tunde Oladunni, Makinde Ajibola and Alex
Chibueze Akhiria for cyber-fraud.
The convicts were arraigned on separate one count charges each
which bordered on impersonation, an offence which violates Section
484 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000 .
The charge against Warees reads: "That you, Warees Tunde Oladunni
'M' sometime in the year 2019, at Ibadan, Oyo State, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud,
did falsely represent yourself via your Facebook account to be
a female citizen of the United States of America who goes by name,
Isabella Maurice, which representation you knew to be false."
The charge against Makinde reads: "That you, Makinde Ajibola 'M'
on or about the 21st of February, 2022, in Ibadan within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, created a profile
on a dating website whereby you represented yourself with the name
Debby-12, an America from Texas, and by this means you obtained benefits
and gained advantage (including the Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand,
Five Hundred Naira) a pretext which you knew to be false, and you
thereby committed an offence."
The charge against Okhiria reads: "That you, Alex Chibueze Akhiria
'M' on or about the 29th of October, 2021, in Ibadan within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud,
created a false Lottery Scheme whereby you represented yourself
as Grant Lottery, by this means you obtained benefits and gained
advantage including benefitting from your victims the sum of Three
Thousand Eight Hundred United States Dollars ($3,800USD), one
iPhone 11 handset, one HP laptop, one 50 inches Samsung Television
and one black iPhone 7 mobile phone, a pretext which you knew to
be false, and you thereby committed an offence."
They pleaded "guilty" to the charges filed against them.
Upon their pleas, facts of the cases were reviewed and indicting
documents printed from their devices tendered before the court
as evidence by the prosecution counsel.
Consequently, the courts convicted and sentenced Oladunni and
Ajibola to four months community service each, and Akhiria to
six months community service.
Also, the courts ordered that the convicts restitute their various
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
courts-convict-three-cybercriminals-in-ibadan
*************************************
17 JUN 2022
Thirty Five Internet Fraud Suspects Arrested in Ibadan
Thirty five suspected internet fraudsters have been arrested by
the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC. Seventeen of the suspects were arrested on
Thursday, June 16, 2022, at the Akobo area of Ibadan following
credible intelligence on their alleged fraudulent activities,
while the remaining eighteen suspects were apprehended by officers
of 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan and handed over to the
Commission for further investigation.
The suspects arrested by EFCC operatives are Taiwo Babalola Oluwatope,
Adekunle Odewale Damilola, Lawal Ismail Adebola, Salau Ayobami Adeyemi,
Adebowale Samuel Amusan, Abioye Oluwatobi Alex, Akinola Adekunle, Salau
Opeyemi Saheed, Ugwu Osita, Adedun Olajide Temidire, Adegbenro Adeola
Damilare, Emmanuel Oluwatobi Ajala, Ojekale Samuel Ayodimeji, Adebayo
Babatunde Teslim, Micheal Ayomide, Opeyemi Sonuola and Adetona Oladimeji
Abdulazeez.
Items recovered from them include seven exotic cars, mobile phones,
laptops, one smart television set and incriminating documents.
The 18 suspects handed over to the Commission by Lieutenant Goni
Tijjani Ibrahim on behalf of the Army, were arrested at Ihejirika
Garden, near the Army Cantonment, Ibadan following series of complaints
from the residents regarding the fraudulent activities of the suspects.
They include Adeotun Omodele, Lamidi Abeeb, Lawal Muhammed, Kolapo
Samad, Akinpelu Gbotemi, Ahmed Rilwan, Sodiq Adebayo, Mohammed Salami,
Muyiwa Adeyeye, Awojoola Muiz, Ogunyemi Ayobami, Gabriel Ikyelede,
Olamide Adekunle, Isaac Elijah, Azeez Yusuf, Damilola Muritala,
Opeyemi Nurudeen and Olamide Lamidi.
Items handed over alongside the suspects include mobile phones,
one smart wrist watch, amongst others.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the investigations
are concluded.
thirty-five-internet-fraud-suspects-arrested-in-ibadan
419 Coalition comment: 419 Coalition appreciates the help of the
2nd Division of the Nigeran Army in this matter, especially as our
Coordinator is also a 2nd Division (Infantry - Vulcan Crewman)
veteran, albeit of the US Army :) Second Divisions are...
"Second to None" :)
*******************************************
16 JUN 2022
EFCC Warns Hoteliers against Accommodating Fraudsters
The Ilorin Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, ACE II Michael Nzekwe, has warned hotel owners
to avoid being accomplice to Yahoo Boys who check into their
facilities for internet fraud and money laundering activities
or risk being prosecuted and jailed.
Nzekwe gave the admonition on Thursday, June 16, 2022, while
addressing a stakeholders meeting of Designated Non-Financial
Institutions, DNFIs, at the Commission’s Office along Catchment
Road, GRA, Ilorin.
According to him, "the Commission has observed a worrying pattern
of cold complicity by hospitality entrepreneurs who appear to be
hands-in-gloves with suspected fraudsters by housing them over
long spells and making internet facilities available to them".
Warning hoteliers against allowing cybercriminals into their
facilities, the Zonal Commander said that hoteliers would be
contravening Section 3 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act if they continue to allow Yahoo Boys to
check into their hotels.
"Section 3 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences
Act, 2006 provides for a prison term of between five and 15
years without option of fine for any person who permits his
premises to be used for any offence under the Act."
According to him, the meeting was called to sensitize stakeholders
on the rising activities of fraudsters and the need to support
the Commission in the fight against corruption. He said that
ignorance was not an excuse under the law. "While the argument
is being made in certain quarters that hoteliers as business
people have no means of determining who a fraudster is before
allowing them to lodge in their facilities, that position runs
counter to the law", he said.
He urged the hoteliers to always ask their customers for means
of identification and to fill their occupation as part of the
check-in procedure.
The Zonal Commander also implored them to support the Commission
with credible and actionable information, adding that such information
when received would be treated with absolute confidentiality.
The President of Hotel Owners Association, Kwara State, Mr. Dauda
Akande and Chief Isaac Omogbenle Adeyemi, the immediate past chairman
of the Association mentioned some of the challenges faced by hotel
owners in dealing with customers. These included concealment of
identity by guests, difficulty in determining a fraudster before
allowing them to lodge in their facilities and safety of whistle
blowers among others.
They commended the EFCC for its professionalism and doggedness
in the anti-graft war, while pledging their support for the Commission
in its bid to stem the scourge of corruption in Nigeria.
Earlier on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 the Zonal Commander had urged
compliance officers of banks to be diligent in the discharge of
their duties and to ensure that they play active role in tackling
money laundering and other fraudulent practices in the banking
sector.
He frowned at the actions of some bank officials, who aid and abet
money laundering activities and other economic and financial crimes,
describing such acts as "a sign of systemic abuse and failure on the
part of such banks".
According to him, "there is no major fraud especially money laundering
that is ever committed without the connivance of the bank officials,
and such must be discouraged".
On the issue of "Know Your Customer" (KYC) and "Know Your Customer's
Business" (KYCB), Nzekwe tasked the bankers to take the requirement
seriously as it would help to keep fraudulent customers on the radar.
Participants at the meeting assured the EFCC of their support by
offering necessary information that could assist it in fighting
corruption.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-warns-hoteliers-against-accommodating-fraudsters
419 Coalition comment: The EFCC should check the actual ownership of any
property or hotel at which mass arrests of 419ers are made, though such
records may be labyrithine, as it is possible that 419er Chairman and
Ogas may actually Own such 419er infested facilities. The same thing
applies to the banks... if a lot of ilegal monies are being laundered
through a given bank, check to see who controls or owns the bank, and
vet them. Just common sense, our view, and hopefully the EFCC is doing
these things.
**************************************
16 JUN 2022
Three Suspected Internet Fraudsters Arrested in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on , June 16, 2022, arrested
three suspected internet fraudsters. Uzefere Stephen, Dozie
Kenneth and Chinagorom Macdonald Nnadozie were arrested at
Bricks City Estate, Kubwa Abuja, following intelligence on
their alleged criminal activities.
Items recovered from them include Laptops and mobile phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains photos of the three suspects:
three-suspected-internet-fraudsters-arrested-in-abuja
*****************************************
16 JUN 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster One Year in Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of one internet
fraudster, Opeyemi Fatoyinbo, to one year imprisonment before
Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in
Ikeja, Lagos.
He was arrested on July 29, 2021 during a sting operation at
Rollace Hotel, Ajao Estate, Lagos, following intelligence on
the activities of some persons allegedly involved in fraudulent
online activities.
The amended one count preferred against him reads: "That you,
Opeyemi Fatoyinbo, on or about 29th July, 2021, in Lagos, within
the Ikeja jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, with intent to
defraud, retained in your possession the aggregate sum of $650.00
( Six Hundred and Fifty US Dollars)and one Samsung phone, being
proceeds from a criminal conduct, deceitfully obtained from
unsuspecting members of the public."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
In view of his guilty plea, the prosecution counsel, Ahmed Yerima,
reviewed the facts of the matter, and tendered the defendant's
statement to the EFCC as well as the fraudulent documents recovered
from his email accounts which were admitted in evidence against
the defendant.
He, therefore, prayed the court to convict him accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Dada found him guilty of the offence and
sentenced him to one year imprisonment, with an option of fine
of N500, 000.
He was ordered to make a restitution of the sum of N300, 000
to the EFCC Recovery account.
The Samsung mobile phone recovered from him was ordered forfeited
to the Federal Government.
The convict was also ordered to sign an undertaking not to be
involved in any criminal activity within or outside the country.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-one-year-in-lagos
*************************************
16 JUN 2022
Yahoo Boy Jailed for Fraud, to Sweep Church in Abuja
Justice K.N. Ogbonnaya of the FCT High Court Kubwa on Wednesday,
June 15, 2022 convicted and sentenced one Chibuike Marshal Omemgboji
(alias Surajo Ascencio) to six months of community service. He was
convicted having pleaded guilty to one count charge of fraudulent
impersonation.
The charge reads, "that you, Chibuike Marshal Omemgboji (alias
Surajo Ascencio) sometime in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this
Honorable Court fraudulently cheat when you created social media
accounts on Facebook and Instagram, misrepresenting yourself to
be Surajo Ascencio upon which one Sarah Vakunta (aka Danne Gibbs)
delivered the sum of $4,328 (Four Thousand Three Hundred and Twenty
Eight United States Dollars) only under the pretence that you are
in love with her, thereby committed an offense contrary to Section
320(a) of the Penal Code Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja)
1990 and punishable under Section 322 of the same Law".
Based on his plea and facts presented by the prosecution, Justice
Ogbonnaya convicted and sentenced the defendant to six months
community service which shall commence with him sweeping his place
of worship located in Jahi Abuja from June 16, 2022.
In addition, he is to forfeit his Honda Accord car and iPhone X
mobile phone which he acquired with the proceeds of the crime to
the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
yahoo-boy-jailed-for-fraud-to-sweep-church-in-abuja
***************************************
16 JUN 2022
One Convicted for Cybercrime in Oyo
An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, on Wednesday, June
15, 2022, convicted and sentenced one Olanipekun Adams Abolade
to six months imprisonment for cyber-fraud.
The convict who was arraigned on one count charge which bordered
on impersonation, contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law,
Cap 38, Oyo State, pleaded guilty to the charge upon his arraignment
by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
Consequently, the prosecution counsel, Chidi Okoli, reviewed the
facts of the case and urged the court to convict and sentence
Olanipekun as charged.
Justice S.O. Adeyemi after listening to the prayer of the prosecution
and careful consideration of the facts and evidence before the court,
convicted and sentenced Olanipekun to six months in prison.
The court further ordered that the convict pay the sum of $350USD
(Three Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars) in restitution and
forfeit one iPhone 11 Pro Max mobile phone to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
one-convicted-for-cybercrime-in-oyo
********************************************
15 JUN 2022
30 Internet Fraud Suspects Arrested in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested thirty suspected
internet fraudsters.
The suspects were arrested on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, in Lugbe
and Kubwa suburbs of Abuja, following credible intelligence on
their alleged internet fraud activities.
The suspects include: Obazee Destiny, Oloton Kenneth, Emmanuel
Patrick, Cobirevwhe Lucky, Wisdom Chinedu Okeke, Emmanuel Obiajulu
Okafor, Chime Gabriel, Uchime Gabriel, Usenbor Aghosa Austin,
Precious Osayi, Salman Abdullahi, Iseri Ochuko and Okator Emeka.
Others are Usehbor Eghosa Auhin, Chime Gabriel Onyebuchi, Amas
Randy Ehingiator, Osabee Jerry Olabor, Wisdom Usenbor, Etaga Uyuoma,
Perokri Destiny, Chime Stephen, Eneome Daniel, Eneh Chukwuemeka,
Kennet Okoduwa, Eze Nwaennezie Samuel, Igbinomwanhia Esosa,
Igbinomwanhia Miracle, Olajiar Victor, Ekeainya Confidence, Akpa
Anthony Somtochukwu and Abubakar Mohammed. Items recovered from t
hem include Mercedes Benz, Lexus and Toyota cars, mobile phones
and laptop computers.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains small photos:
30-internet-fraud-suspects-arrested-in-abuja
*********************************
15 JUN 2022
Court Jails Fraudster One Year in Abuja
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, secured the conviction
of one Ahmed Abubakar before Justice M.A. Madugu of the FCT High
Court, Bwari, Abuja on one count charge bordering on cheating
by personation.
The charge reads, "that you, Ahmed Abubakar sometime in 2022 at
Abuja within the jurisdiction of the Honorable Court cheated one
Mary Kae, an American citizen of the sum of $1000 (One Thousand
United States Dollars) only, by pretending to be Andrew Clinton,
a moderator, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 321 and punishable under Section 322 of the Penal Code
Act, Laws of the Federation, 2004".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge, prompting the
prosecuting counsel to ask the court to convict him accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Madugu convicted and sentenced him to one
year imprisonment without option of fine. He is also to forfeit
the sum of N250, 000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) and
an iPhone 13 mobile phone to he Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-fraudster-one-year-in-abuja
**********************************
13 JUN 2022
EFCC Arrests 25 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benue
Operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 25 suspected internet fraudsters
(aka Yahoo Boys). The suspects were arrested in the early hours of
Monday, June 13, 2022, in a sting operation at various locations in
Otukpo, Benue State.
The Twenty-Five (25) suspects who were smoked out of their hideouts
following actionable intelligence on their alleged internet fraud-related
activities include E. Francis, A. Emmanuel, M. Wakili, C. Francis, I.
Emmanuel, J. Williams, P. Idoko, M. Itodo, S. Abah, O. Ameh, O. Samson,
O. Amuta, and O. Precious.
Others are: O. Solomon, N. Alex , O. Emmanuel, E. Godwin, O. Ochigbo,
E. Chukwu, W. Godwin, Y. Elijah, V. Godwin, L. Owoicho, A. Augustine
and O. Moses.
Items recovered from them include different brands of mobile phones
and computers.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned in
Court as soon as the investigation is concluded.
The press release contains two group photos:
efcc-arrests-25-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benue
********************************************
10 JUN 2020
Undergraduate Convicted for Internet Fraud in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, June 9, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of one Bello Ademola Toheeb to six months community
service before Justice Sherifat Adeyemi of the Oyo State High
Court, Ibadan, on one count charge for internet fraud.
The one count reads: "That you, Bello Ademola Toheeb "M" on or
about 11th of February, 2022, at Ibadan within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, did falsely
represent yourself to be Joy New, which representation you knew
to be false impersonation contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
The convict pleaded guilty to the charge filed against him by
the EFCC.
Upon his plea, prosecution counsel, Mabas Mabur, urged the court
to convict and sentence the defendant as charged, having reviewed
the facts of the case and tendered indicting documents as evidence.
Consequently, Justice Adeyemi convicted and sentenced Bello to six
months community service and ordered the convict to forfeit the sum
of N246, 695. 00 domiciled in his three different bank accounts and
one iPhone X mobile phone to the Federal government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
undergraduate-convicted-for-internet-fraud-in-ibadan
*******************************************
10 JUN 2022
Court Sends Two Fraudsters To Jail in Gombe
Justice D.S. Sikkam of the Gombe State High Court sitting in
Gombe has convicted and sentenced two fraudsters: Mark Madiya
and Joel Jonah to two years, five months imprisonment for
criminal misappropriation.
They were convicted on Thursday, June 9, 2022 after pleading
guilty to three-count
charges bordering on criminal misappropriation, upon being
arraigned by the Gombe Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
One of the count charges read: "that you, Mark Madiya and
Joel Jonah sometime between 2019 and 2020 at Gombe, Gombe
State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did
conspire among yourselves to commit an offence to wit:
criminal misappropriation and thereby commit an offence
contrary to the provision of Section 96 and punishable
under Section 97(2) of the Penal Code."
The defendants pleaded guilty to the three count charges
when they were read to them.
Based on their pleas, Justice Sikkam convicted and sentenced
them accordingly. Madiya and Jonah were sentenced to three
months imprisonment with an option of fine of N20,000.00
( Twenty Thousand Naira) on count one, two years imprisonment
with an option of N30,000.00 ( Thirty Thousand Naira) on count
two and two months imprisonment with an option of fine of
N20,000.00 ( Twenty Thousand Naira) on count three. The jail
terms are to run concurrently.
The convicts’ journey to the Correctional Centre began when
a petitioner alleged that they defaulted in payments due to
him from his motor cycle business which he offered them to
handle. They were arrested, investigated and prosecuted.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-fraudsters-to-jail-in-gombe
**************************************
10 JUN 2022
EFCC Cautions Teenagers Against Cyber Crimes
The Uyo Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE Bawa Hamidu
has cautioned teenagers across the country to steer clear of
involvement in any form of cybercrimes, stressing that such crimes
may earn them conviction records that cannot be expunged.
He gave the charge on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 at Bridge End High
Schools, Calabar, Cross River State, during a sensitization session.
Bawa, who spoke on the theme: "Crime does not pay and 'yahoo-yahoo'
is not a course of study", condemned a steady rise in the statistics
of teenagers and youths being arrested and convicted for various
internet- related crimes.
According to him "once you are charged to court and convicted, you
become an ex-convict and nothing can expunge that record. Then, tomorrow
when you're about to advance in life, or get employed or offered an
appointment, someone will dig up that record and you're ruined, no matter
your professional qualification".
Head, Public Affairs Department of the Zone, Chief Superintendent of
the EFCC, CSE Theresa Nwosu reminded the students that whatever is put
on the internet stays in the public domain forever. "Always remember
that the internet does not forget, and as long as the internet does
not forget, the EFCC will not forgive any crime, and that's why we're
here to tell you that crime does not pay, so you must desist from it"
she said.
During the interactive session, students asked very relevant internet
-related questions ranging from how to identify cyber crimes, report
cybercrimes, measures that teenagers could adopt in order not to fall
prey to criminal baits, among others.
A high point of the programme was the inauguration of the EFCC Integrity
Club. Proprietress of the school, Mrs. Magi Ndomegba thanked the EFCC
for the sensitization, especially the Integrity Club initiative, which
she said was worthy of emulation by other agencies.
The press release contains a photos:
efcc-cautions-teenagers-against-cyber-crimes
*****************************************
10 JUN 2022
Kwara Electrician Loses House to FG as EFCC
Secures Conviction of Six for Cybercrime
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin has
ordered the forfeiture of a landed property situated at Tanke area of
Ilorin, Kwara State, belonging to a 19-year-old Electrician, Jimoh
Opeyemi prosecuted for internet fraud by the Ilorin Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC
The judge gave the forfeiture order on Thursday, June 9, 2022 while
sentencing Opeyemi alongside five other persons prosecuted on separate
charges for similar offences by the EFCC.
The others are Apata Lawrence Abimbola Olatosin, a Tiler; Ologunsoro
Ayodeji Benjamin, from Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State; Obadun Busayo Danjumo
from Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State; Olajide Moshood
from Modakeke area of Osun State and Johnson Samuel Oluwaseun from
Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The defendants had pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
Aliyu Adebayo and Andrew Akoja who prosecuted the cases on behalf
of the Commission reviewed the facts of the cases. The extra-judicial
statements of the defendants and other incriminating items recovered
from them at the point of arrest including a car, different brands
of phones and laptops were tendered and admitted in evidence.
The prosecutors urged the court to consider the guilty plea entered
by the defendants and all the exhibits tendered to hold that the EFCC
had established its case beyond doubt.
Justice Sani, after evaluating the facts of the cases and the evidence
placed before the court said he found merit in the case of the prosecution
against the defendants.
The judge sentenced Opeyemi to one year imprisonment with option of
N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine. In addition to the
forfeiture order placed on a landed property, which he acquired with
proceeds of illegal activities, at Tanke area, Ilorin, the judge also
ordered that the phones and a laptop used by the convict to perpetrate
the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Apata was sentenced to one year imprisonment with option
of N150,000 (One Hundred And Fifty Thousand Naira Only) fine, while
the iPhone 8 used by the convict to commit the fraud was forfeited
to the Federal Government.
The judge also sentenced Ologunsoro to one year imprisonment each on
counts one and two with option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira
Only) fine on each count. The convict would also forfeit the phones
used as instrumentality of the crime and the sum of $300 (Three Hundred
United States Dollars) to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Justice Sani pronounced a prison term of one year
on Obadun with option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only)
fine and an order forfeiting an iPhone X used to perpetrate the crime
to the Federal Government.
Olajide bagged one year imprisonment each on count one and two with
option of N100, 000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine on each
count. The court ordered that one Infinix X 4 phone used commit the
crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Equally, the judge sentenced Johnson to one year imprisonment with
option of N150,000 (One Hundred And Fifty Thousand Naira Only) fine,
while ordering the forfeiture of his phones used to perpetrate the
crime and one Toyota Camry Car acquired with proceeds of the crime
to the Federal Government. In addition, the convict would raise the
sum of $875 (Eight Hundred and Seventy-Five United States Dollars)
as restitution.
The press release contains small photos of all six 419ers:
kwara-electrician-loses-house-to-fg-as-efcc-secures-conviction-of-six-for-cybercrime
*************************************************
9 JUN 2022
Court Jails Five Fraudsters in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, secured the conviction
of five fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State
High Court sitting in Benin City, on separate one count charge
bordering on impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
The convicts are: Omoragon Paul, Ogiamien Nosa Christopher,
Oghenekume Moses, Osamede Egbon Nicholas and Bashiru Mohammed.
The charge against Paul reads: "that you, Omoragbon Paul between
2020 and 2021 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court with intent to defraud falsely represent
yourself to be one Johnson Ben, an American on Instagram account
created by you and thereby committed an offence contrary to and
punishable under section 484 of the Criminal Code, Cap 48 Laws
of Bendel State of Nigeria".
The charge against Mohammed reads: "that you, Bashiru Mohammed
sometime in August 2020 in Benin City, Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently converted
to your use the aggregate sum of N1,850,000 property of Abdulsalam
Usman Yusufu, which sum was credited into Access Bank account
number :0007189939 provided by you as part-payment for the
purchase of a 2012 model Lexus RX350 and thereby committed an
offence contrary to section 383(2)(f) of the Criminal Code, Cap
48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State)
1976 and punishable under section 390 of same Law".
They all pleaded guilty to the charges, prompting the prosecution
counsel, K.U Udus to ask the court to convict and sentence them
accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba sentenced Paul, Nicholas and Moses to two
years imprisonment each with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine , while Christopher bagged two years imprisonment
with an option of Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira fine.
Mohammed was sentenced to two years imprisonment with an option
of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira fine. He is also to
restitute the victim of the sum of N1, 850,000 (One million,
Eight Hundred and Fifty Thousand naira).
Justice Ikponmwonba ordered the forfeiture of a Toyota Camry
Car belonging to Paul and a Lexus RX 330 SUV belonging to Christopher
to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The judge also ordered the
forfeiture of phones and laptop recovered from the defendants, to
the federal government of Nigeria.
The press release contains small photos of esch of the five 419ers:
court-jails-five-fraudsters-in-benin
****************************************
9 JUN 2022
Court Sentences Internet Fraudster to Six Months
Community Service in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of an internet fraudster, Pius Eromosele, before Justice O. A.
Okunuga of the State High Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
The convict was arraigned on May 31, 2022 on a one-count
charge bordering on possession of document containing false
pretence, which he pleaded "guilty" to.
The charge reads: “That you, Pius Eromosele, on or about the
31st day of March, 2021 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of
this Honorable Court,knowingly had in your possession a
document containing false pretence titled: "Schedule remittance
and shipping request", which document you knew to be false and
committed an offence of possession of document containing false
pretence, contrary to Section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos
state, 2015."
In view of his guilty plea, the prosecution counsel S.I Suleiman,
reviewed the facts of the case to further prove the guilt of the
convict.
Suleiman narrated to the court that Eromosele was arrested by
operatives of the EFCC on March 26, 2022 ,following intelligence
report received from the Interpol Global Complex Innovation,
Singapore, about a syndicate of internet fraudsters in Nigeria,
who use malware to steal information and credentials of individuals
and use the same to defraud unsuspecting victims.
He also told the court that a covert surveillance was carried out,
followed by a sting operation that resulted in the arrest of the
convict and some others.
The prosecution tendered the voluntary statements of the convict
as well as other incriminating evidence that were recovered from
him and they were all admitted in evidence against him.
Suleiman, upon presenting the fact of the case, urged the court
to convict Eromosele as charged and sentence him accordingly.
Justice Okunuga sentenced the convict to five (5) hours of community
service for six (6) months at the Lagos State University Teaching
Hospital.
Justice Okunuga also ordered the forfeiture of the items recovered
from him to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sentences-internet-fraudster-to-six-months-community-service-in-lagos
*******************************************
9 JUN 2022
EFCC Arrests 140 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Ikorodu
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
have arrested 140 suspected yahoo boys. They were nabbed in separate
sting operations at popular hotels, Lakers Lounge hotel and Bar and
De Butlers, in Ikorodu, Lagos State following credible intelligence
on their involvement in internet-related fraud.
However, four of the suspects were released as no incriminating item
was found on them.
The suspects, with ages between 16 and 40 years are: ODUNTAN OLASESAN,
26; ABASS ISMAIL ALABI, 35; LAWAL KUDUS, 26; OLATUNJI OLAYIWOLA
OJO, 40; OKOYE ONYEKA DUKE, 38; OGUNGBAMILA DANIEL, 29; CHIMEZIE
BRIGHT, 32; LATEEF SALAU, 36; OREOLUWA OLUWASHINA, 32; OLAWUMI
AYNWUYI MUHAMMED, 23; ADEPEGBADE AFEES ISHOLA, 32; SANUSI IDRIS,
29; HAMMED OGUNSANYE, 28; AYENI DAMILOLA, 36; ABIODUN AHMED, 26;
ODUNTAN TUNDE FEMI, 23; OGUNSANYA IDRIS OPEYEMI, 22; BALOGUN ALI,
26; IPADE OLANREWAJU, 24; BALOGUN TOYOSI BENJAMIN, 20; OMOTAYO
ADEWALE, 35 and EMMANUEL ABIT JAEM, 39.
Others are: EKANEM MICHAEL, 40; OGUNTIMEHIN BABAJIDE, 25; ABIMBOLA
ISMAIL, 24; ALATISE FUAD, 26; SODIQ IDRIS, 19; ONANUBI TREASURE,
19; TOBI JAGUNJOBI, 31; ASHAYE AYOMIDE, 26; MURITALA IBRAHIM,
18; ADEOSUN AHMED, 19; AJIJOLA PETER OLAWALE, 18; LAWAL OLAOLUWA
YUSUF TIJANI, 25; YUSUF TIJANI 22; AKINOLA AYINDE, 29 and DISU
OLAYIWOLA AKANI, 28.
Also in the net are: AFOLAYAN OALTUNJI, 32; ADIO OLUWASEUN
AKINPEL, 32; IFEOLUWA SHOLEYE, 34; KELVIN SUNDAY, 35; LAWAL
ADEKUNLE, 37; QUDUS AKEUSOLA, 30; DODO JOSHUA, 19; ANIFOWOSE
RIDWAN, 22; ANIMASHAUN SAMUEL, 28; AJAYI OLUWASEGUN, 32; BAKARE
OLUWASEUN AKANDE, 22; SAHEED OLAMILERE, 35; ASENUGA ADESEYE,
ADEBULU JOHN, 24; BALOGUN ISRAEL, 30; DAMOLA JOHNSON, 36;
NDUBUSISI ONYEDIKACHI, 27; ADESANYA ADEKUNLE, 28; BAMIDELE
DADA, 31; ISRAEL AVOUR, 24; OMOJOLA JAMES DARE, 28; OLAFARE
ENITAN DARE, 40; TALAKO ADEWALE, 29; MUSTAPHA MUBARAQ
ADEFEMIKUN, 23; NDFIU ABOLARE, 28; LATEEF YUSUF, 32; JOHN
CHINEDU KELVIN, 34; SEGUN JOHN, 28; IYANDA IDOWU, 30; BANWO
KEHINDE SAMUEL, 32; VICTOR EBHOMNEYE, 35; STEPHENE EDEU,
31; EMMANUEL SUNDAY, 21; DANEIL EBUKA ,26; ADENIJI FUNSHO,
MUSTAPHA ISMAIL GARKUWA,19; IBRAHIM BASHIRU OLAYIWOLA, 27;
AGABARAOJO BASHIRU, 27; QUADRI OLADIPO, 30; ABDULSALAM
LEKAN, 29; OSHINBOWALE OLAYINKA, 22; LAJUNLE JADE, 17;
BELLO RASHEED, 22; EFFANGA EMMAUEL, 22; VINCENT AKPOMEJE
VICTOR, 21; HASSAN LATEEF OLUWAMAYOWA ,25; OPEYEMA RINCE
ADEBOWALE ,35; IDOWU FARUQ GBOLAHAN, 32; MATHEW OLUSESAN,
33; OLAWUYI GIDOEN TOKUNBO, 32; RICHARD OLUWASEUN, 32;
TIMOTAYO ALADE, 29; AZEEZ IBRAHIM, 22; AZEEZ DAMILOLA,
23; TOLUWAWI LAWL, 28; ADEMOLA KOLAWALE, 30;
OGUNBODE ERIOLUWA ,23; OGUNBODE OLABODE, ORENUGA SODIQ,
19; TAJUDEEN ISAA ,18; AFE OLUWASEGUN, 29; ADEDEJI AFOLABI
ABDURAHMAN, 40; MUSTAPHA IDRIS, 28; ALAMU ABDULWAHAB, 20;
KAREEM ABDUL BASIT, 19; EGBO JAMES SUNDAY, 26; ALADE ELIJAH
GREGORY, 20; LAWAL IBRAHEEM ADEBO, 34;JOHN NAKA, 32;
OSIDEINDE ADEBAYO, 22; CHIBUKE FRANK OKORAFOR, 27; STEPHEN
AKOLADE, 35; BABATUNDE HABEEB, 28; FISAYO WASIU, 32; JIMOH
LUKMAN, 32; IDOWU JOHN OLUADAMILOLA, 33; OLAWOKE ISRAEL,
21; OLOPADE AYOBAMI, 24; EMEVOR PABLO, 24; AYODELE JOSEPH,
27; ISAAC EMMANUEL, 33; ADEWALE IDRIS, 18; ALABI MALIK, 24;
NAFIU AFEEZ, 30; ABDULMALIK ABDUSSALAM, 36; OLAWALE MUSTAPHA,
29;SIMEON GODWIN, 23; OLANREWAJU AZEEZ OLAKUNLE, 22; OSENI
SODIQ OLUWASEGUN, 30; IBRAHIM OLAWALE, 21; CHRISTOPHER
DANIEL CHINAZA, 22; MEKWUNYE IFEANYI, 30; JOHN MESHACK,
33; AGBABIAKA OLUWASEUN, 27; OGUNBONA MALIK, 19; OLADOKUN
PETER, 35; OLATUNJI SAMUEL and KEHINDE AMUDA ABDULRASHEED,
42.
Items recovered from the suspects include exotic cars, electronic
devices, laptop computers and mobile phones.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains two group photos:
efcc-arrests-140-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-ikorodu
***********************************************
8 JUN 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags One Year in Port Harcourt
Justice E. A. Obile of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State has convicted and sentenced Obu Gabriel Ebibo to one year
imprisonment for impersonation and obtaining money by false pretence.
He was convicted on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 after pleading 'guilty' to
two -count charges preferred against him, upon being arraigned by the
Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
One of the charges read: "That you Obu Gabriel Ebibo (alias Kenneth
Gibson) on or about the 1st November, 2021, in Port Harcourt, within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud
obtained an aggregate sum of Six Hundred and Eighty United States
Dollars ($680.00 USD) on the pretence that, the money was meant for
crypto currency investment, a pretext you knew to be false and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 1 (2) of the Advance Fee Fraud
and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section
1 (3) of the same Act".
He pleaded "guilty" to the charges when they were read to him. In
view of his plea, prosecution counsel, F .O. Amama prayed the court
to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. Counsel to the
defendant, B .J. Jeoffrey, however, urged the court to temper justice
with mercy stressing that, "he is a first- time offender who does
not have previous criminal records".
Justice Obile convicted and sentenced the defendant to one year
imprisonment with an option of fine of Five Hundred Thousand Naira
(N500, 000.00) payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of
the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Judge also ordered that the
iPhone X mobile phone recovered from the convict be forfeited to
the government.
Ebibo's journey to the Correctional Service started when he was
arrested by operatives of the Port Harcourt's Zonal Command of
the EFCC in connection with internet-related offences. Investigation
showed that the convict had been involved in internet fraud by falsely
presenting himself as one Kenneth Gibson to his victims, thereby
defrauding them of the sum of Six Hundred and Eighty United States
Dollars ($680.00 USD).
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-one-year-in-port-harcourt
*******************************************
8 JUN 2022
Five Jailed In Ibadan for Impersonation
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Monday, June 6, 2022, secured the conviction of five internet
fraudsters: Muhaymin Adeshola Ajayi (a.k.a Lena Paul), Emmanuel Oluwafemi
Shoyinka (a.k.a Mabel Mates), Sherriffdeen Ololade Qozeen Abdulrahman
Olakanmi Babatunde and Abiodun Tolulope Emmanuel, for fraudulent
impersonation before Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court,
Ibadan and Justice Ladiran Akintola of the Oyo State High Court
sitting in Ibadan .
They all pleaded guilty to their respective one-count charges.
In view of their pleas, Justice Agomoh convicted and sentenced Abiodun
to nine months imprisonment and Abdulrahman, six months imprisonment.
Sherriffdeen and Shoyinka bagged six months and three months community
service, respectively.
The court also ordered the defendants to restitute their victims.
Shoyinka is to restitute his victim the sum of N100,000 (One Hundred
Thousand) and ordered to forfeit Samsung S9 Plus mobile phone, one
Bontel mobile phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria,
Sherriffdeen was ordered to restitute to his victims the total sum of
$1,400USD (One Thousand and Four Hundred United States Dollars) through
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. He is to forfeit one iPhone
12 Pro Max mobile phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria, being proceeds
of his crime.
Ajayi was ordered to restitute the sum of $2,500USD (Two Thousand United
States Dollars) only to his victim- one Matthew Kopilash, through the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. In addition, he was ordered
to forfeit one iPhone 12 Pro Max and one Toyota Camry Saloon car to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
Abdulrahman is to restitute his victim the sum of $1,500USD (One Thousand
United States Dollars) and Bitcoin worth 0.01551288 through the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission. The convict also is to forfeit one MacBook Pro,
one iPhone 12 Pro Max, one Samsung 4iWatch, one Play Station 5, one 55 inches
Samsung television, to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Abiodun was ordered to restitute the sum of $500USD (Five Hundred United
States Dollars) and balance the sum N497, 071:12 (Four Hundred and Ninety
Seven Thousand, Seventy One Naira and Twelve kobo) to his victim and forfeits
his iPhone 11 mobile phone, one Samsung Galaxy Note 10mobile phone, one
iWatch Series 5 and one red Toyota Avalon car to Federal Government of
Nigeria.
The press release contains small photos of each of the fice 419ers:
Five Jailed In Ibadan for Impersonation
*******************************************
8 JUN 2022
Abuja Courts Jail Four Internet Fraudsters
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, secured the conviction
of Joshua Adebonojo, Stefan Osarodion Uwuigbe and Smart Chukwunenye
before Justice M.A Madugu of the Federal Capital Territory High
Court, Bwari, Abuja on separate one count charges bordering on
internet-related fraud.
Upon arraignment, they pleaded guilty to the charges preferred
against them.
In the light of their guilty plea, Justice Madugu convicted and
sentenced them to one year in prison with an option of N200, 000
(Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine each. They are also to forfeit
the devices acquired with the proceeds of crime.
In a similar development, Justice C.E. Nwecheonwu of the FCT
High Court, Kuje also convicted and sentenced one David Obi
Jekwu to one year in prison with an option of N50, 000 (Fifty
Thousand Naira) fine on charges of cheating and fraudulent
impersonation.
Using his WeChat App profile page and pretending to be one Captain
Kim Lee, a Sino-American military personnel serving in Damascus,
he fraudulently obtained Y1000 (One Thousand Yuan) from one Tian
Jingying.
He pleaded guilty to the charges and was convicted accordingly.
The press release contains a photo of each of the four 419ers:
abuja-courts-jail-four-internet-fraudsters
******************************************
7 JUN 2022
EFCC Arraigns Three Suspected Fraudsters in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC has arraigned
three suspected fraudsters: Helen Oyelowo, Manshop Christopher and
Paul A. Okache for obtaining the sum of N3.8m (Three Million Eight
Hundred Thousand Naira) under false pretence.
They were arraigned before Justice J.O.E. Adeyemi-Ajayi on June 7,
2022 on fourteen count charges bordering on obtaining under false
pretences.
Specifically, the trio are accused of obtaining money by false pretense
from Nwoye Chinonso Emmanuel, Gbolade Adediran, Joseph Lafidi Kingo,
Nwosu Agatha Chinyere, Dagett Zaram and Kemi Oluwatoyin totaling totalling
N3.8m (Three Million Eight Hundred Thousand Naira), representing 50%
Processing Fee of a Federal Government of Nigeria COVID-19 grant for
civil servants. They are also alleged to have collected a total sum
of N547, 615 (Five Hundred and Forty Seven Thousand, Six hundred and
Fifteen Naira) as 10% Legal Fee of a Federal Government of Nigeria
COVID-19 grant for civil servants.
Count fourteen of the charge alleged that the 3rd defendant "retained
the control of the aggregate sum of N547, 615 (Five Hundred and Forty
Seven Thousand, Six hundred and Fifteen Naira) purportedly as 10% Legal
Fees of a Federal Government of Nigeria COVID-19 grant for civil servants,
proceeds of criminal conduct of Manshop Christopher when you know that
proceeds are as a result of crime and thereby committed an offense
contrary to Section 17(a) and punishable under Section 17 (b) of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004".
They all pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to them.
Based on their pleas, defence counsels: Dominic Anyador and Agu Aondongu
for the 1st defendant and Okache Frederick Obagwu and Efe G. Daniel for
the 2nd and 3rd defendants applied for bail which was not objected to by
the EFCC Counsel : H.M. Mohammed.
Justice Adeyemi-Ajayi granted the defendants bail in the sum of N10, 000,000
(Ten Million Naira) each, with two sureties in like sum who must be civil
servants on not less than grade level 13. He remanded the defendants in a
Correctional Centre till bail is perfected.
The matter was adjourned till September 20, 2022 for commencement of trial.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arraigns-three-suspected-fraudsters-in-abuja
****************************************
7 JUN 2022
Court Sends Six Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin City
Six internet fraudsters, Osahon Bright, Osahon Ebhohon Evans, Jeffery
Osamwonyi, Louis Erharuyi, Obi Emeka and Omonzokpia Odion were on Tuesday
June 7, 2022 convicted and sentenced to prison by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba
of Edo State High Court and Justice (Professor) C. A. Obiozor of the
Federal High Court sitting in Benin City.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Commission
separately on one count charge of impersonation and obtaining by
false pretence.
The charge against Osahon Bright reads: "that you, Osahon Bright
sometime between 2017 to 10th October, 2021 at Benin City, Edo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently
personate the identity of one Lee Chang, a white man with intent
to defraud unsuspecting ladies and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code
Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria ( as applicable in Edo
State) 1976".
The charge against Obi Emeka reads: "that you, Emeka Obi sometime
in 2021 at Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to
be Savanna Delivery Company, a Chinese Delivery Company by sending
documents to unsuspecting Chinese ladies through Facebook and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484
of the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as
applicable in Edo State ) 1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges, prompting
the prosecution counsel , I.M. Elodi, Ibrahim Mohammed, KY Bello and F. A.
Jirbo to ask the courts to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Bright and Erharuyi to three
years imprisonment each with an option of N300,000 and N200,000 fine
respectively The duo of Emeka and Elvans bagged two years imprisonment
each with an option N300,000 and N100,000 fine respectively. Osamwonye
bagged two years imprisonment with an option of N150,000 fine.
Justice Ikpomwonba also ordered that the Mercedes Benz 350 recovered
from Osahon be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria. Phones
recovered from the defendants in the course of investigation which are
proceeds of crime are to be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Justice Obiozor convicted and sentenced Odion to five years imprisonment
or a fine of N300,000. Odion is also to forfeit his phone to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each of the six 419ers:
court-sends-six-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin-city
***************************************
7 JUN 2022
Court Jails Man 5 Years for Love Scam in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Wednesday, June 7, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing of
one Akinola Jeremiah before Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State
High Court for cyber-fraud
Akinola was arrested by the EFCC following credible intelligence on
his alleged involvement in internet- related. Upon arrest, analysis
of the devices found on him indicated that he was impersonating the
identities of Christopher Walker and Thomas Broussard on his social
media handles (Hangout, Facebook, and WhatsApp) with a view to defrauding
his victims with whom he pretended to be involved in romantic relationships.
The one count amended charge reads: "That you, Akinola Jeremiah, male,
sometimes between the months of January and March, 2022, in Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, pretended to be one Christopher
Walker, a United States of America naval officer on Instagram and Facebook,
obtained gift cards worth the sum of $1,800 United States of America Dollars
from Lesa, Nichol, and Kesha for a romantic relationship and you thereby
committed cheating by impersonation, an offence contrary to Section 308
of the Penal Code Law, 2017 of Kaduna State and punishable under Section 3
09 of the same Law."
The defendant pleaded guilty to the one count amended charge.
Upon his guilty plea, the prosecution counsel, Y.J Matiyak urged the court
to convict him accordingly. But counsel to the defendant, Richard O. Adedoyin
asked the court to temper justice with mercy.
Justice Khobo, thereafter convicted and sentenced the defendant to five
years Imprisonment with the option of N150, 000.00 fine.
The court also ordered the forfeiture of the property of the convict which
were purchased with the proceeds of crime, including an iPhone 12 Pro Max,
and Bluetooth speaker and the sum of N300,000.00 (Three Hundred Thousand
Naira) to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-man-5-years-for-love-scam-in-kaduna
**************************************
6 JUN 2022
Court Sends Four Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
Four internet fraudsters, Osamudiamen Efosa, John Ogbodo, Clinton
Amanemiye and James Collins Oghenetega were on Monday, June 6, 2022,
convicted and sentenced to prison by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo
State High Court sitting in Benin City.
The quartet were separately arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on one count charge of
impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
They were said to have impersonated foreign nationals with intent to
defraud, an offence against the state.
The charge against Efosa reads: "that you, Osamudiamen Efosa (m)
sometime between November, 2018 and 12th September, 2021 at Benin
City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Mark Roland and
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria
( as applicable in Edo State) 1976."
The charge against Ogbodo reads: "that you, John Ogbodo between January
and March, 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with
intent to defraud falsely represent yourself to be one Erickson, a Chinese
on Instagram account created by you and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel
State of Nigeria ( as applicable in Edo State ) 1976."
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges, prompting
the prosecution counsel I.K.Agwai and K.Y. Bello prayed the court to convict
and sentence them accordingly. However, the defence counsel pleaded with
the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants had become remorseful
for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the trio of Efosa, Amanimeye
and Oghenetagha to two years imprisonment each or a fine of N200,000, N300,000
and N250,000 each while John Ogbodo bagged one year imprisonment with an option
of N150,000 fine.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of their phones to the Federal
Government of Nigeria while Efosa is to forfeit the balance in his
various bank accounts to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each of the four 419ers:
court-sends-four-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin-2
**************************************
6 JUN 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
Two internet fraudsters, Ese Ekunme and Uyi Eric were on Thursday June 2,
2022 convicted and sentenced to prison by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the
Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City.
The duo were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on A separate one count charges of
fraudulent impersonation and possession of proceeds of cybercrime.
Eric had in January 2022 impersonated one Tyler Lapay, an American woman on
Instagram in his attempt to defraud unsuspecting victims while Ekunwe took
possession of the sum of N3million which was proceeds of crime.
The charge against Eric reads: "that you, Uyi Eric (aka Tyler ) on the
21st day of January, 2022 at Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did fraudulently personate the identity of Tyler
Lapay, an American woman on Instagram, a social media platform with profile
picture of the lady whose pictures you sent to Elizabeth Thomas with the
intent to obtain money from the unsuspecting lady and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria ( as applicable in Edo State)
1976"
The charge against Ekunwe reads: "that you, Ese Ekunwe sometime in 2021
at Wisdom Street, Off Egba Road, Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did take possession of the sum of Three Million Naira
( N3,000,000) knowing that same represent proceeds of Etinosa Eghaghe's ( your
nephew) criminal conduct to wit: Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 17(b) of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission ( Establishment ) Act, 2004".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges,
prompting the prosecution counsel, K.U.Udus and K.Y. Bello to ask the court
to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly. However counsel to the
defendants, pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as the
defendants had become remorseful for their action
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Eric to three years imprisonment
or a fine of Three Hundred Thousand Naira while Ekunwe bagged three years
imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira as fine
Justice Ikponmwonba also ordered that a Lexus ES 330 recovered from Eric be
forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria. Eric is also to forfeit an
iPhone X to the Federal Government and undertake in writing to be of good
behaviour.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin-2
***************************************
6 JUN 2022
Cybercrime: Pastor on FBI-Wanted List Docked in Enugu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC Enugu Command
on Friday June 3, 2022 arraigned one Pastor Kelechi Vitalis Anozie
and three others who are currently at large, Mr. Azubuike Ifeanyi
Bright, Mrs. Amarachi Blessing Iro and Mr. Kelechi Patrick Iro,
before Justice I.M Buba of the Federal High Court sitting in Enugu
on a seven count charge bordering on money laundering.
Anozie who is on the America Federal Bureau of Investigation's Wanted
List, was arrested by the Enugu Command of the EFCC at Owerri on March
10, 2022 following actionable intelligence received by the Commission.
The defendant is alleged to have defrauded one F.F who lives in Illinois
the sum of $135,800, and $47,000 from another American based in North
Carolina.
One of the counts reads, "that you PASTOR KELECHI VITALIS ANOZIE,
MR AZUBUIKE IFEANYI BRIGHT( NOW AT LARGE), MRS AMARACHI
BLESSING IRI (NOW AT LARGE) AND MR KELECHI PATRICK IRO
(NOW AT LARGE) sometime between 2017 and 2019, at Owerri within
the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria conspired among
yourselves to commit a felony to wit: use and taking possession of
fund that forms part of proceeds of an unlawful act and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 21 (a) of the Money Laundering,
(Prohibition) Act, 2022 and Punishable under section 18(3) of the
same Act."
Anozie pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him.
This prompted the prosecution counsel, Michael Ani, to ask the Court
for a date for the commencement of trial. The defendant’s counsel, E.
Adams prayed the court to grant his client bail.
The defendant was granted bail in the sum of N10, 000,000 (Ten Million
Naira) and one surety in like sum. The surety must be resident within
the jurisdiction and own a property. He must also swear to an affidavit
of means.
The defendant is to deposit his international passport and passport
photographs with the court.
The case was adjourned until Friday June 10,2022 for trial
The press release includes a photo:
cybercrime-pastor-on-fbi-wanted-list-docked-in-enugu
*************************************************
6 JUN 2022
EFCC Arrests Corps Member, 18 Other 'Yahoo-Yahoo Boys' in Lokoja
Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 19 suspected internet fraudsters
in a sting operation in Lokoja, the Kogi State Capital.
The suspects were smoked out of their hideouts by the eagle-eyed operatives
of the EFCC over the weekend following credible intelligence on their fraudulent
activities.
The suspects include a serving corps member in the State, Adamu Shuabu and
eighteen others.
They are, Achimugu Nelson Ojonoka, Victor Atsumbe, Akoh Grace Samuel, Usman
Abubakar Sadiq, Jacob Emmanuel, Solomon John, Christian Oyakhilome, Adesanya
Adeolu Tosin, Uloko George Ojonugwa and Timothy Eleojo Moses.
Others are Negedu Joseph Onuchei, Usman Tenimu, Lukman Musa, Samuel Atadoga,
Daniel Atekojo James, Abdulrazaq Iko-ojo Ahnod, Olarewaju John Olumide and
Ademola Adegoke Daniel.
Upon arrest, a Lexus car, huge sum of money suspected to be proceeds of
illegal activities, different brands of phones, laptops and other incriminating
materials were recovered from them.
The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the ongoing
investigations.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-corps-member-18-other-yahoo-yahoo-boys-in-lokoja
***************************************************
6 JUN 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Three Internet Fraudsters in Calabar
The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of three internet fraudsters:
Emmanuel James Olayi, Okadigbo Gabriel Nzubechukwu and Emmanuel Nnoli before
Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court sitting in Calabar, Cross
Rivers State.
They were convicted on Thursday, June 2, 2022 after pleading guilty to
one-count separate charges bordering on impersonation, preferred against
them by the EFCC.
One of the charges reads: "That you, Emmanuel Nnoli "M" sometime in 2022
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate
Abdul Kareem on Badoo with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention) Act 2015 and punishable under the same Section".
They pleaded “guilty” to the charges when they were read to them.
Based on their pleas, EFCC counsel, Joshua Abolarin, prayed the court to
convict the defendants and sentence them accordingly. However, defence
counsels: Innocent Eze and Chinonso Nweke prayed the court for leniency.
Justice Ojukwu convicted and sentenced Olayi to one year imprisonment with
an option of a fine of N300, 000.00 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira), Nzubechukwu
to one year imprisonment with an option of fine of N800, 000.00 (Eight Hundred
Thousand Naira) and Nnoli six months imprisonment with an option of fine of
N600, 000.00 (Six Hundred Thousand Naira).
The court also ordered them to forfeit all instruments used in committing
the crime which include phones of different brands, one HP Probook 450 G6
and one HP 250 G7 Note to the Federal Government through the EFCC. Nnoli
was also ordered to restitute the sum of 80, 000 CFA to his victim and
Nzubechukwu to restitute the sum of $400 (Four Hundred Dollars) to his
victim. According to the court, the payments of the said restitutions
shall be their conditions for release from the Correctional Center, if
they wish to serve the time.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when they were
arrested on March 31, 2022 in Calabar, by operatives of the Uyo Zonal
Command of the EFCC, for internet-related activities. They were later
prosecuted and convicted.
efcc-secures-conviction-of-three-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar
*****************************************
3 JUN 2022
Cyber-Fraud: EFCC Secures Three Convictions in Ibadan, Oshogbo
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Thursday, June 2, 2022, secured the conviction of the trio of
Matthew Jeff Efuwape, Sunday Oshinalke and Ajayi Babatunde Mateen before
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State and Justice
Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel of Federal High Court sitting in Oshogbo, Osun State
on one count charge each of impersonation, contrary to Section 22 (2) (b)
(i) Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
The charge against Efuwape reads: "That you, Matthew Jeff Efuwape 'M',
sometime in 2018, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently
impersonated one Joane Thomson on Google Hangout App via your Google Gmail
account with an address: joanethomson50@gmail.com, with intent to gain monetary
advantage for yourself and thereby the committed an offence contrary to Section
22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015
and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act."
The charge against Oshinalke reads: "That you, Sunday Oshinalke 'M' (a.k.a
Mary Irene), sometime between 2018 and 2021 within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, impersonated one Mary Irene, a
citizen of United States of America, by which you obtained benefits and
gained advantage, a pretext which you knew to be false and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable
under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention
etc.) Act, 2015."
The charge against Ajayi reads: "That you, Ajayi Babatunde Mateen 'M', on
10th day of October, 2021 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
conspired with one Ayomide Balogun and Adebunmi Adedeji Moses to impersonate
a white woman with intent to gain monetary advantage for yourself and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 27 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22
(2) (b) of the same Act."
Upon their arraignments, they pleaded 'guilty' to the respective charges
filed against them by the EFCC.
Consequently, Justice Uche Agomoh convicted and sentenced Efuwape to one
year, two months imprisonment and Oshinalke to ten months in jail.
In the same vein, Justice Ayo-Emmanuel convicted and sentenced Ajayi to
eight months imprisonment.
The courts also ordered the convicts to restitute their various victims
and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government of
Nigeria.
The press release includes a photo of each of the three 419ers:
cyber-fraud-efcc-secures-three-convictions-in-ibadan-oshogbo
*****************************************
3 JUN 2022
EFCC Arrests Thirty-Nine Suspected Cyber-Fraudsters in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, arrested thirty-nine
(39) suspected internet fraudsters in a sting operation in Ibadan, Oyo
State.
The suspects who claimed to be undergraduates of different tertiary
institutions in Ibadan were arrested at Apete area of the Oyo State
capital, following useful intelligence on their cyber-fraudulent
activities.
However, following analyses carried out on their devices, incriminating
documents, and messages of their fraudulent bank transactions were recovered
from thirty-four (34) of the suspects.
They are Okeowo Abiodun Akeem, Yekini Ismail Omokayode, Odediran Abdulfatahi
Dolapo, Isiaka Olumide Hammed, Obioma Honour Umaduabuchi, Olorunsola Eniola
Johnson, Olabiyi Ifeoluwa Joseph, Razaq Adams Lekan, Oladimeji Abdulrahmon
Olamide, Oyelaran Olayiwoola Jeremiah, Patrick Simon, Adefowora Omotayo
David, Adediran Qudus Wale, Onipede Damilola Zacheaus, Ajayi Ifedolapo
Oluwatofunmi, Oluwole Ayomide Oluwasegun, Usman Mubarak Oluwadamilare,
Dapo-Ajayi Temitope Faith, Diyaolu Olamide Samuel, Ugbama Daniel Efemena,
Ayoade Taofeek Adekunle.
Others are: Egberongbe Adebayo Adedamola, Ajadi Ayinla Ibrahim, Ajeigbe
Christian Toluwase, Alabi Daniel Oluwatosin, Olawooyin Taoheed Olakunle,
Oguntuase Tope Francis, Salami Adam Akanfe, Olanrewaju Michael Damola,
Kareem Afeez Alabi, Onuma Chidubem Williams, Rasaq Sodiq Olamilekan,
Okusanwo Mayowa Daniel and Wahab Adebayo Abdullahi.
Five exotic cars, mobile phones, laptops are among the items recovered
from them.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release includes a group photo:
efcc-arrests-thirty-nine-suspected-cyber-fraudsters-in-ibadan
*****************************************
3 JUN 2022
EFCC Arrests 92 Internet Fraud Suspects in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 92 suspected internet
fraudsters (aka Yahoo Boys) in a sting operation in the early hours
of Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at various locations in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State.
The Ninety Two (92) suspects were arrested for alleged internet fraud
activities at locations including Choba and Ada George axis of Port
Harcourt, Rivers State, following an intelligence report.
Analyses of the devices recovered from the suspects established that
64 of the suspects have incriminating items in their phones and emails.
The Sixty Four (64) suspects are: Lawrence Philip, Edewor Victor,
iumph Amgbu, Elvis Ogheze, Maduakolam Lius Fred, Edet Victor Akpan,
Joshua Fidelis, Henry Wisdom, Isiah Ejarat, Destiny Waaogho Erigga,
David Alli, Goodluck Edowru, James Otu, Asoulu Dare, Jerry Thankgod,
Anawanti Finder, Edowuru Famous, Felix Osaro, Ukaegbu Franklin,
Clinton Paul, Stansley .O. Tallick, Prosper Osadebameh, Prince
Onyebuchi Ifeanyi, Gift Henry, Miracle Danien, Anyaeri Chidiebere,
Udechukwu Ezenna, Udechukwu Victor, Favor Kelechi, Ernest Chidubem,
Endurance Erebo, Chigozie Emeonye and Precious Enomah.
Others are Ohiarekurh Daniel, Ordinachukwu Daniel Obinna, Light
Gospel Nwosu, John Junior, Udosina Obi Mike, Samuel Promise, Aremo
Folarin, Treasure Mike, Confidence Paul, Precious Paul, Ndubusi John
Kingsley, Emmanuel Matthew Agoke, Aso Gideion Apata, Favor Otogbo,
Favor Shadrack Moses, Vincent Athanasius, Imafidon Junior, Kelly
Didi, Emmanuel Odunor, Samuel Dickson, Victor Akpan, Godwin Oluwafemi
Ozeknome, Norbert Atuna, Sam Uba, Emmanuel Bobo Ojuru, Kelechi Ben,
Matthis Ibidabo, Kelvin Mathew Agoke, Chidera Chibuzor Anieze, Moses
Shedrack and Collins Christopher.
The indicted suspects will be charged to court as soon as the
investigation is concluded.
The press release includes a mass group photo:
efcc-arrests-92-internet-fraud-suspects-in-port-harcourt
*********************************************
3 JUN 2022
EFCC Gets Direct Access to 114m INTERPOL Criminal Records
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),
Abdulrasheed Bawa, on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, in Lyon, France, signed
a Memorandum of Understanding with the Interpol National Central Bureau
for Nigeria.
The agreement on Direct Access to and Use of Interpol Information Systems,
grants the EFCC unrestricted access to nine key global databases containing
114 million records of 195 countries, hosted by the Interpol on its i24/7
secure global records and communication system.
Access to the Interpol databases is a significant boost to the EFCC as it
enhances the Commission’s operational capabilities by giving it an unparalleled
global reach against suspected criminals and wanted persons attempting to flee
from the long arm of the law.
The global criminal databases that the EFCC now has unhindered access to,
include:
i. Nominal Database containing records of personal data and the criminal
history of people subject to request for international police cooperation;
ii. Stolen and Lost Travel and Identity Documents (SLTD) Database containing
information on travel and identity documents reported as stolen, lost revoked,
invalid or stolen blank;
iii. Travel Documents Associated with Notices (TDOWN) Databases, containing
records of all extracted information from all Interpol Notices;
iv. Stolen Administrative Documents (SAD) Database, which has records of
stolen official documents that serve to identify objects, for example,
vehicle registration documents and clearance certificates for import/export;
v. Digital Interpol Alert Library Doc (Dial Doc) containing records of newly
detected forms of travel documents counterfeiting;
vi. Edison, a Forensic database that contains genuine travel documents;
vii. Fingerprints Database grants authorized users in member countries
access to view, submit and cross-check records in the fingerprints database
via a user-friendly automatic fingerprint identification system (AFIS);
viii. iARMS contains over a million records of lost, stolen, trafficked or
smuggled firearms. iARMS can identify firearms trafficking patterns and
smuggling routes;
ix. Stolen Motor Vehicles (SMV) Database contains extensive identification
details from all types of motor vehicles and identifiable spare parts reported
as stolen.
efcc-gets-direct-access-to-114m-interpol-criminal-records
****************************************
2 JUN 2022
Two Convicted For Internet Fraud In Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of two internet fraudsters, Ahmed Abiodun and Owotutu Damilare, before
Justice O.A. Okunuga of the Lagos State High Court, sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos.
They were both separately arraigned on an amended one-count charge
bordering on possession of documents containing false pretences, with
which they perpetrated internet fraud and defrauded unsuspecting
victims of the society.
The defendants, who had earlier been arraigned before the Court, had
approached the prosecution, through their counsel, seeking a plea bargain
and sentencing agreement, thus prompting their arraignment on the amended
charges.
They were accused of contravening Section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos
State.
They both separately pleaded "guilty" to the amended one-count charge.
In the course of the trial of Owotutu, the prosecuting counsel, E.S.
Okongwu, who reviewed the facts of the matter, tendered in evidence his
statement made to the interrogators, his iPhone 11, one HP laptop, a
bank draft of N300,000 restitution and the fraudulent documents printed
out from his devices.
They were all admitted as exhibits against him, as there was no objection
from the defence counsel, Anthony Airewele.
During the trial of Abiodun, the prosecuting counsel, O. Adewunmi, who
reviewed the facts of the matter, tendered in evidence his statement
made upon his arrest, an iPhone 12 Pro Max, an iPhone 11, a MacBook
Air laptop, one HP laptop, a gold ring, printout of his cryptocurrency
wallet containing $6,062.74, being the remainder of the about $10,000
he benefited from the alleged internet fraud, and other fraudulent
documents printed out from his devices.
Adewunmi further informed the Court that a Toyota vehicle was also
recovered from him along with N55,214 in his bank account.
There was no objection from the defence counsel, Z.S. Makinde; hence,
they were admitted as exhibits against him.
Following their guilty pleas and the respective plea bargain and
sentencing agreements, Justice Okunuga pronounced them guilty as
charged.
Justice Okunuga sentenced Owotutu to six hours per day community service
for 12 months, while Abiodun was sentenced to one year at a correctional
facility without an option of fine.
Items recovered from them were also ordered forfeited to the Federal
Government.
They were both ordered, upon completion of their sentences, to sign
an undertaking with the EFCC never to engage in such vices again
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-convicted-for-internet-fraud-in-lagos
*************************************
2 JUN 2022
EFCC Arrests 41 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Akure
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Benin
Zonal Command, on Wednesday June 1, 2022 arrested 41 suspected
internet fraudsters in Akure, Ondo State.
The suspects were arrested at their hideout following actionable
intelligence. They are Akinselure Bayo, Awopetu Abayomi, Adekanyi
Ayo, Victor Ugwu, Awopetu Emmanuel, Ige Damilola, Omotoyinbo Pelumi,
Ayeomoni Oluwaseun, Adeoye Olamide, Ojo Gbolahon, Adegbona Adedeji,
Johnson Sunkanmi, Emmanuel Tosin, Busayo Ayeni, Olumide Oluwalogbon,
Temitayo Temenu, Victor Emaiku, Abiodun Babatunde, Ehuwayijomo Orowole
and Odukoya Jesuseyiyan.
Others are Leke Daniel, Obafemi Tosin, Suleimon Moshood, Akadiri
Olalekan, Adeyanju Isaac, Alakuro Lasisi, Hammed Saqio, Emaiku Abraham,
Adenuberun Olarenwaju, Pius Ogunfeyimi, Okunnuwa Moses, Ayomideji
Owolabi, Falodun Temilehin, Owanikan Damilola, Omotehinse Joshua,
Emaiku Michael, Abel Ayo, Samuel Famous, Resurrection Adetuwa, Emaiku
Emmanuel and Ogundele Oluwaseun.
Twelve exotics vehicles were recovered from the suspects, including
five Toyota Camry cars, a Mercedes Benz GLE 350 4Matic, Toyota Corolla,
Hundai Sonata, Lexus RX 350, Lexus ES 350, Lexus ES 250 and a Toyota
Highlander.
Other items include mobile phones, a printer and laptops.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned in
court soon.
The press release contains small photos:
efcc-arrests-41-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-akure
******************************************
2 JUN 2022
How Suspected Internet Fraudster Perpetrated $1,030,302.00 Fraud
-Witness
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday,
June 1, 2022, presented its second witness, Ayotunde Solademi, a
staff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Office of Legal
Attache, United States Consulate, Lagos, in the ongoing trial of
one Uchenna Igwegbe, who is being prosecuted on a three-count
charge bordering on retention of proceeds of criminal conduct and
obtaining money by false pretence to the tune of $1,030,302.00,
before Justice Sherifat Solebo of the Special Offences Court
sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
One of the counts reads: "Uchenna Justice Igwegbe, sometime between
July 2013 and November 2013 in Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial
Division of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, retained
in your control the aggregate sum of $1,030,302.00 only through
your account domiciled with First Bank, being proceeds of criminal
conduct on behalf of Obinna Kelvin (now at large)."
He is also accused of facilitating "the fraudulent obtaining of funds
from unsuspecting members of the public totaling the sum of $937,073.00".
The offences are contrary to Section 17 of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC Act, 2004 and Section 1 (1)(a) and 1 (3) of
the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Fraud Offences Act 2006.
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges when he was arraigned on April
1, 2021.
At today’s proceedings, Solademi, who was led in evidence by prosecuting
counsel, Ahmed Yerima, narrated how Igwegbe engaged in internet fraud
facilitated by Obinna Kelvin, who was convicted and jailed in the United
States for a $6.5million fraud.
He further stated that investigation and forensic analysis of the devices
seized from Obinna exposed Igwegbe as playing the role of a "bomber" in
the alleged fraud.
He said: "A bomber is just one of the different roles online scammers
play in the pursuit of fraudulent activities."
"In general, when it comes to online fraud or scam, the fraudsters work
differently."
"Some are called shooters, others are called bombers. Some others provide
accounts, while others are pickers, and so many other specialisations."
“From the conversations between the defendant and Obinna, it can be
deduced that the defendant provides bank accounts.
"In the conversations between the defendant and Obinna, the defendant
was providing bank accounts tailored to the need of Obinna in perpetrating
online scam.
"The crime was discovered as a result of a joint operation with the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, codenamed 'REWIRED'.
"Between February 2016 and August 2016, the defendant sent five bank
accounts to Obinna.
“One of those bank accounts was used to facilitate funds to Obinna,
totalling $188,791.
"Upon interview of Obinna and forensic analysis of his mobile devices,
Obinna was into online scam, which include insurance fraud, credit card
theft, identity theft, online dating extortion and BEC.
"It was also discovered that the defendant was in communication with
Obinna for specifically the transmission of US and foreign bank accounts,
which were used to facilitate funds."
Under cross-examination by Victor Okpara, SAN, the witness told the
court that the WhatsApp communications between Igwegbe and Obinna were
forwarded to him.
The case has been adjourned till July 5, 2022 for continuation of
cross-examination.
how-suspected-internet-fraudster-perpetrated-1-030-302-00-fraud-witness
**************************************
2 JUN 2022
Three Cyber-Fraudsters Jailed in Oyo
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 secured the conviction of the trio of
Oluwaseyi Timileyin Agunbiade, Akande Hammed Oluwagbenga and Oguntoke
Oluwadamilare Aremu before Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court,
Ibadan, Oyo State, on one count charge each for offences which bordered
on impersonation, contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
The charge against Agunbiade reads: "That you, Oluwaseyi Timileyin
Agunbiade, sometime in July, 2021, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, with intent to gain advantage for yourself did
impersonate one Sabrina Mills, the pretext you knew to be false and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (i) and
punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015."
The charge against Akande reads. "That you, Akande Hammed Oluwagbenga
sometime in July, 2021, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
with intent to gain advantage for yourself did impersonate one Mark
Anthony, the pretext you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under Section 22 (2)
(b) (iv) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015."
The charge against Oguntoke reads: "That you, Oguntoke Oluwadamilare
Aremu, sometimes in 2020 at Ilaro within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did fraudulently impersonated the name Williams Johnson an American
citizen with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of
the same Act."
The defendants pleaded 'guilty' to their respective charges.
Following their pleas, the prosecuting counsel, Mabas Mabur, reviewed
the facts of the cases and tendered their statements as well as the
indicting documents printed from recovered devices, which were admitted
in evidence.
Justice Agomoh, consequently convicted and sentenced Oguntoke to one
year imprisonment, Agunbiade six months imprisonment, while Akande
bagged five months jail term.
Furthermore, the court ordered Oguntoke to restitute the sum of $600USD
(Six Hundred United States Dollars), and forfeit one iPhone 11 mobile
phone, one Itel phone and one Apple MacBook Laptop to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
Also, Agunbiade was ordered to restitute the sum of $100USD (One Hundred
United States Dollars) and the balance of N1,011,916.01 (One Million and
Eleven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Sixteen Naira, one kobo), domiciled in
his Guaranty Trust bank account to his victim and forfeit one iPhone 11
Pro Max to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Akande is to restitute the sums of $2,300USD (Two Thousand, Three Hundred
United States Dollars) and N10, 104.53 (Ten Thousand, One Hundred and Four
Naira, Fifty Three Kobo) domiciled in his Sterling bank account to his victim,
and forfeit one iPhone 6 Plus mobile phone, one Infinix X5 phone, one iPhone12
Pro Max, a Smile Router and one unregistered Lexus 330 car to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
three-cyber-fraudsters-jailed-in-oyo
**************************************
2 JUN 2022
Court Sends Fake American Widow to 3years Imprisonment in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction of one Aderibigbe Sheu, a student of Kwara
State University, KWASU, Malete, for posing as a widow resident in the
United States of America, USA, to defraud unsuspecting victims.
Aderibigbe, a native of Oshogbo, Osun State, was one of the 30 suspected
internet fraudsters arrested in Malete, Moro Local Government Area of Kwara
State on September 19, 2021 during a sting operation by operatives of the
EFCC. He was charged on one count of cybercrime and retention of proceeds
of crime before Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting
in Ilorin.
Upon arraignment on Wednesday June 1, 2022, the defendant pleaded guilty
to the charge.
Following his ‘guilty plea’, counsel to the EFCC, Rasheedat Alao, reviewed
the facts of the case and tendered the extra-judicial statements of the
defendant including the phone, laptop and other incriminating materials
printed from his devices, which were admitted in evidence.
She urged the court to consider the plea of the defendant, his extra-judicial
statements, and all the exhibits tendered to convict him as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Sani having held that the court is satisfied with
the evidence before it pronounced Aderibigbe guilty of the charge and sentenced
him to 3years imprisonment with option of N982,403 (Nine Hundred and Eighty
Two Thousand, Four Hundred and Three Naira Only) fine. The court also ordered
that the iPhone 7+ and laptop, which were used to perpetrate the crime be
forfeited to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Justice Sani on Thursday, June 2, 2022 convicted one
Awoleye Bolaji, who claimed to be from Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State for internet
fraud related offence.
Awoleye allegedly posed as one Karan Vanslack, an American lady, with intent
to defraud unsuspecting victims in contravention of Section 22 (2) (b)(ii)
of Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.
Upon the guilty plea by the defendant, Counsel to the EFCC, Sesan Ola,
reviewed the facts of the case and tendered one iPhone 6, the statements
of the defendants and all the fraudulent messages printed from his device,
which were admitted in evidence.
Justice Sani sentenced the defendant to one year imprisonment with option
of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) and ordered that
the iPhone 6 which he used to perpetrate the crime be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
The press release contains photos:
court-sends-fake-american-widow-to-3years-imprisonment-in-ilorin
************************************
1 JUN 2022
EFCC Arrests Seven Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, arrested seven suspected internet fraudsters
in Gwagwalada and Lugbe areas of Abuja.
The suspects: Endurance Oziegbe Eraikhuemen, Ugochukwu Teddy Ezenwa,
Godsgift Oghenekome Odheyibo, Micheal Ariyo, Lawal Waliyu, Evan Abu
and Sunday Mba were arrested based on credible intelligence worked
upon by the EFCC.
Items recovered from them are different brands of mobile phones
and computer devices.
They will be arraigned in court as soon as investigation is concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-seven-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
******************************************
1 JUN 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Jailed in Uyo
Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court sitting in Calabar,
Cross River State has convicted and sentenced two cyber criminals:
Adolor Ikpomwosa, a.k.a Olivia Dockrey and Idaah Precious Idaah,
a.k.a Katrina Jade, to one year, six months imprisonment for criminal
impersonation with intent to defraud.
They were convicted on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 after pleading guilty
to one-count separate charge bordering on fraudulent impersonation
and obtaining by false pretence, preferred against them by the Uyo
Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The lone-count charge read: :"That you, Idaah Precious Idaah, aka
Katrina Jade, sometime in March, 2022 in Nigeria within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court with intent to obtain property and gain advantage
for yourself, fraudulently presented yourself as Katrina Jade to one
Joseph Killoran and defrauded her the total sum of Five Hundred US Dollars
($500) and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b)
(i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015 and punishable
under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
In view of their pleas, Counsel to the EFCC, Joshua Abolarin prayed the
court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Ojukwu convicted and sentenced Idaah to one year imprisonment
with an option of fine of N700, 000.00(Seven Hundred Thousand Naira).
He was also ordered to restitute the sum of $500( Five Hundred Dollars)
to his victim through the EFCC and forfeit the sum of Six Million Naira
(N6,000,000) being proceeds of crime in his UBA account to the Federal
Government through the EFCC. Ikpomwosa was convicted and sentenced to
six months imprisonment from the date of arrest, or pay a fine of Five
Hundred Thousand Naira only (N500, 000.00). The convicts were also ordered
to forfeit all instruments used in committing the crime, and undertake
to be of good behaviours.
The convicts started their journeys to the Correctional Centre when they
were arrested by operatives of the Uyo Command of the EFCC at different
locations within Calabar, Cross River State. Their arrests followed
intelligence reports worked upon by the EFCC. They were later prosecuted
and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of both 419ers:
two-internet-fraudsters-jailed-in-uyo
****************************************
1 JUN 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Sentenced To Community Service In Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of two internet fraudsters, John Austin and Alebiosu Rasheed Salam,
before Justice O.A. Okunuga of the Lagos State High Court sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos.
The convicts were separately arraigned on a one-count charge bordering
on the use of fraudulent documents to engage in online dating scam,
through which they defrauded their unsuspecting victims.
They both separately pleaded guilty to the one-count charge.
In the course of the separate proceedings, counsel for the EFCC, S.O.
Daji, who gave reviews of the facts in each of the separate trials,
told the Court that the defendants, upon their arrests at different
times, were further interrogated by operatives of the EFCC during
which they volunteered statements admitting to their involvement in
internet fraud.
Daji further told the Court that two iPhones were recovered from
Salam along with a Lexus 350 2010 model, while one iPhone, one Tecno
phone and one HP laptop were recovered from Austin.
He tendered the statements in evidence along with the various items
recovered from them.
They were all admitted in evidence as exhibits against the defendants,
as there were no objections raised by the defence team.
Thereafter, Justice Okunuga found them guilty as charged.
In convicting them, the Court took cognisance of the fact that they
were both first-time offenders.
They were both sentenced to five hours daily community service for six
months and the items recovered from them were also ordered to be forfeited
to the Federal Government.
They are also to enter into an undertaking with the EFCC never to
engage in any form of economic and financial crime again.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-sentenced-to-community-service-in-lagos
***************************************
1 JUN 2022
Port Harcourt Court Sends Man to Jail for Impersonation
Justice P. M. Ayuba of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State has convicted and sentenced Nzebechi Precious Nnadi, to six
months imprisonment for impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
He was convicted in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, after pleading
'guilt'’ to one-count charge raised against him by the Port Harcourt Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The count charge read:
"That you, Nzebuchi Precious Nnadi (aka) Laura Martinez between December,
2021 to February, 2022 at Port Harcourt, Rivers State, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, fraudulently impersonated and presented yourself
as a military man from Mexico and also an engineer from Germany and obtained
steam cards worth Eight Hundred United States Dollars ($800 USD) from one
Juan Pereira, a Venezuelan resident in the US and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (ii) of the Cybercrimes (Prevention, Prohibition,
etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his guilty plea, prosecution counsel, M. T. Iko prayed the court
to convict and sentence him accordingly. Defence counsel, M. Achuonye, however,
urged the court to temper justice with mercy stressing that, "the defendant
is a first -time offender with no previous criminal records".
Justice Ayuba convicted and sentenced Nnadi to six months imprisonment with
an option of fine of Twenty Thousand Naira (N20, 000.00) payable into the
Consolidated Revenue Fund Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Nnadi's road to the Correctional Centre opened when he was arrested with
one spark 7 Techno phone which he employed in opening several Google and
WhatsApp accounts used in chatting with unsuspecting victims. He used the
same accounts in chatting and professing love to many of his victims
including Mari and Juan Pereira, a Venezuelan resident in the United
States of America. He also falsely presented himself to them as Laura
Martinez, a military man from Mexico and also an engineer from Germany
and fraudulently obtained steam cards worth Eight Hundred United States
Dollars ($800 USD) from them
The press release includes a photo of the 419er
port-harcourt-court-sends-man-to-jail-for-impersonation
******************************************
1 JUN 2022
Ex-Convict Bags Eight Months in Uyo
Justice Agatha Okeke of the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo,
Akwa Ibom State has convicted and sentenced an ex-convict, Ekemini
Akininyene Effiong to eight months imprisonment for criminal
impersonation and obtaining by false pretence to the tune of
$75 (Seventy Five United States Dollars).
The convict was arraigned on Monday, May 30, 2022, alongside two
others: Henry Izuchukwu Nze and Nze Francis Chike by the Uyo Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
While Effiong and Chike were arraigned on two-count charges bordering
on criminal impersonation and possession of fraudulent documents,
Nze was arraigned on five-count charges bordering on criminal
impersonation with intent to defraud.
When the charges were read to them, they all pleaded "guilty".
Based on their pleas, counsel to the EFCC, S. R. Akinrinlade informed
the court that the prosecution had witnesses in court to review the
facts of the cases. However, the court adjourned for facts review,
conviction and sentencing to Tuesday, May 31, 2022, for Effiong and
Monday June 6, 2022 for Chike and Nze.The charge against Effiong read:
"That you, Ekemini Akaninyene Effiong a.k.a Ashley Smith sometime in
February, 2022 in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this honorable
court with intent to obtain property and gain advantage for yourself,
fraudulently presented yourself as Ashley Smith to one Blake Walters
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (2) (b)
(i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention Etc) Act 2015 and
punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
When the matter came up on Tuesday, Akinrinlade prayed the court to
convict and sentence the defendant as charged.
Justice Okeke convicted and sentenced him to four (4) months imprisonment
on each of the two counts without an option of fine. The sentence is to
run concurrently.
Effiong had previously been convicted and sentenced to six months
imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State
on December 31, 2021. He was convicted by Justice Adamu Mohammed for
impersonation, phishing and hacking of e-mail accounts. This makes
him a two- time convict for cybercrimes.
Effiong's fresh journey to the Correctional Centre started when he
was arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC on
February 9, 2022. Investigations showed that the convict was impersonating
female Americans on social media platforms like Hangout and Instagram
to defraud his victims. He variously posed as Ashley Smith on Hangout
and Ashley Adams on Instagram and used his profile to initiate chats
with one Edward Pendlety and succeeded in defrauding him $75 (Seventy
Five United State Dollars) in three places.
The press release contains a photo:
ex-convict-bags-eight-months-in-uyo
*******************************************
31 MAY 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Jail Term, Forfeits Property To FG In Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on May 31, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing of one
Nuhu Zakari, who was arraigned on a one-count amended charge bordering
on money laundering and internet fraud before Justice Sherifat Solebo
of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
He was accused of acting as a middle man, who sourced for foreign
bank accounts for other internet fraudsters.
He pleaded guilty to the amended charge.
Thereafter, the prosecuting counsel, G.C. Akaogu, informed the Court
that the defendant approached the Commission seeking a plea bargain,
which necessitated the amended charges
While giving a review of the facts, Akaogu told the Court that the
defendant was arrested sometime in January, following an operation
conducted by operatives of the EFCC based on intelligence reports
on the activities of suspected internet fraudsters around the Ajah
area of Lagos State.
"He was arrested along with some others and brought to the office
of the EFCC for further interrogation and investigation," he said.
He also told the Court that the defendant, upon interrogation, confessed
to "acting as an intermediary between two fraudsters, in which he collects
bank details of foreign banks" from one party to another.
He further told the Court that upon his arrest, an iPhone 7, a Huawei
phone and a HP laptop were recovered from him and forensically analysed.
The prosecution counsel also told the court that fraudulent documents were
printed out from the WhatsApp conversation on his phone.
He, thereafter, tendered in evidence the items recovered from him along
with his statement, which were admitted as exhibits against him.
He urged the Court to adopt the plea bargain agreement between both
parties.
The defendant, in the open court, admitted the facts against him, and
pleaded with the Court to temper justice with mercy.
Justice Solebo found him guilty as charged and sentenced him to six
months at a custodial facility.
The Judge also ordered all the items recovered from him to be forfeited
to the Federal Government.
He is to enter into a bond with the EFCC never to engage in such an
act again upon his release from prison.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
nternet-fraudster-bags-jail-term-forfeits-property-to-fg-in-lagos
**********************************************
31 MAY 2022
Online scamming: Three Nigerians Arrested in
INTERPOL Operation Killer Bee
An INTERPOL-led operation targeting malware cyber fraud across
Southeast Asia leads to the Nigeria arrest of three suspected
global scammers.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested
the suspects in a sting operation conducted simultaneously in
a Lagos suburb called Ajegunle and in Benin City, 300 km to
the East of the commercial capital.
The Nigerian sting operation comes as part of a global operation
codenamed “Killer Bee” involving INTERPOL National Central Bureaus
(NCBs) and law enforcement in 11 countries across Southeast Asia.
The arrests follows the publication of an INTERPOL Cyber Report
linking a suspected syndicate of Nigerian fraudsters operating
from the West Coast of Africa to the use of a malicious Remote
Access Trojan (RAT) known as Agent Tesla.
The men are thought to have used the RAT to reroute financial
transactions, stealing confidential online connection details
from corporate organizations, including oil and gas companies
in South East Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.
One of the scammers, Hendrix Omorume was charged with three
counts of serious financial fraud and has been convicted and
sentenced to one year imprisonment. The trial of the others
is still ongoing.
“Through its global police network and constant monitoring of
cyberspace, INTERPOL had the globally sourced intelligence needed
to alert Nigeria to a serious security threat where millions
could have been lost without swift police action,” said INTERPOL's
Director of Cybercrime Craig Jones.
"Further arrests and prosecutions are foreseen across the world as
intelligence continues to come in and investigations unfold," added
Mr. Jones.
INTERPOL assisted in examining the laptops and mobile phones seized
by EFCC during the arrests, helping to confirm the systematic use of
"Agent Tesla" malware to access business computers and divert monetary
transactions to their own accounts.
"Cybercrime is spreading at a fast pace, with new trends constantly
emerging. Through operations like Killer Bee, INTERPOL partners EFCC
to keep pace with new technologies and understand the possibilities
they create for criminals and how they can be used as tools for
fighting cybercrime," said EFCC’s Director of Operations, Abdulkarim
Chukkol.
"The enforcement actions led by Nigeria and coordinated by INTERPOL
send a clear message that cybercrime will have serious repercussions
for those involved in business email compromise fraud, particularly
in Nigeria," added Mr. Chukkol.
The three men, aged between 31 and 38, were each arrested in possession
of fake documents, including fraudulent invoices and forged official
letters.
Operation Killer Bee is led by the ASEAN Cybercrime Operations Desk,
which is funded by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) 2.0 and
supported by the Singapore Government.
Operational partners included Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos,
Malaysia, Myanmar, Nigeria, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and
Vietnam.
online-scamming-three-nigerians-arrested-in-interpol-operation-killer-bee
***************************************
30 MAY 2022
Man Convicted for $150 Investment Scam In Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on May 30, 2022, secured the conviction of one Adeyemi Emmanuel
before Justice Sherifat Solebo of the Special Offences Court sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos for offence bordering on retention of proceeds of
crime to the tune of $150.
He was accused of engaging in illegal online activities to defraud
his victims in an investment scam.
The charge reads: "Adeyemi Oluwashina Emmanuel, sometime between the
period of March 2020 and October 2021, within the Ikeja Judicial
Division of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, retained
the aggregate sum of $150 obtained from unsuspecting members of the
public."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charge when it was read to him.
The prosecuting counsel, Ahmed Yerima, who gave a review of the facts,
informed the Court that the defendant was arrested sometime in September
2021 after operatives of the EFCC, acting on intelligence report, raided
the hideout of suspected internet fraudsters in the Alagbado area of
Lagos State.
"Upon his arrest, he was brought to the office of the EFCC, where he
gave his statement and his mobile device was analysed at the EFCC ICT
laboratory," he said.
Yerima also told the Court that several email accounts were discovered
on his device, adding that the fraudulent documents he used to engage
in investment scam were printed out in his presence.
"He created Instagram accounts and claimed that he was into cryptocurrency
business and used same to lure unsuspecting members of the public to invest,"
he added.
According to Yerima, the defendant "confessed that he benefited $150 from
one of his victims by the name Adams".
Yerima further told the Court that the defendant confessed that the money
was traded online and the equivalent in Naira was paid into his bank account.
He, thereafter, tendered in evidence the statement of the defendant to
investigators, the fraudulent documents printed out from his device and
the manager's cheque of N75,000 issued by him as restitution.
There was no objection from the defence counsel, F. Olatokunbo.
Justice Solebo admitted them in evidence as Exhibits A, B and C respectively,
and pronounced him guilty as charged.
The defendant, who sobbed in the courtroom when he was given a chance to
address the Court, also pleaded for mercy, saying that he regretted his
actions and would never go back to them
Thereafter, Justice Solebo sentenced him to three months in prison, with
an option of N50,000 fine.
Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the Federal Government.
man-convicted-for-150-investment-scam-in-lagos
****************************************
30 MAY 2022
Three Fraudsters Land in Jail for Cybercrime in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Monday, May 30, 2022, secured the conviction of three persons
for offences bordering on cybercrime.
The convicts are Omoniyi Samuel Pelumi from Ekiti South-West Local
Government Area of Ekiti State, Faloye Victor Oluwadamilola from Akure
South Local Government Area of Ondo State and Olanipekun Tunde Lukman
from Oke-Iyin Area of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State Capital.
The defendants were prosecuted on separate charges before Justice
Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court, Ilorin. They had pleaded
guilty to their respective charge.
Following the guilty plea by the defendants, Innocent Mbachie and Andrew
Akoja who prosecuted the cases on behalf of the Commission, urged the court
to consider the extra-judicial statements of the defendants and all the
exhibits tendered to uphold the cases of the prosecution and convict the
defendants as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Sani said the available facts and proof of
evidence brought before the court have shown that the prosecution had
proved its cases beyond reasonable doubt.
The Judge sentenced Omoniyi to one year imprisonment with option of
N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira ) fine. The judge ordered that
one iPhone 11 Pro Max, the sum of $110 (One Hundred and Ten United
States Dollars) which are proceeds of his unlawful activities be
forfeited to the Federal Government. The court also ordered the
convict to restitute the sum of £250 to the victim.
Justice Sani also sentenced Faloye to one year imprisonment with
option of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira). He ordered
that one Samsung Galaxy S10, iPhone 13, MacBook Laptop which was
used to perpetrate the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The court also ordered the convict to restitute the sum of $1,108
(One Thousand, One Hundred and Eight United States Dollars) which
he benefited from the proceeds of crime.
Similarly, Olanipekun bagged one year imprisonment with option of
N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira ) fine. The court ordered that
one iPhone 12 Pro Max, HP laptop which were used to perpetrate the
crime and the sum of $200 which the convict benefited as proceeds
of the unlawful activities be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains small photos of all three 419ers:
three-fraudsters-land-in-jail-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*************************************
27 MAY 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster One Year in Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Friday, May 27, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of one Dare Tolulope before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special
Offences sitting in Ikeja, Lagos for an offence bordering on possession
of fraudulent documents, contrary to Section 318 of the Criminal Law
of Lagos State 2011.
The convict was accused of perpetrating internet fraud through the use
of fraudulent documents and charged with an amended one-count charge.
The charge reads: "Dare Tolulope, on or about the month of July 2021
in Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial Division, had in your possession a
document containing Social Security number 2446061738 belonging to one
Eric Munro, which you knew or ought to have known contains false pretence."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
The prosecuting counsel, O. Adewunmi, who also gave a review of the
facts, informed the Court that the defendant, through his counsel,
approached the prosecution for a plea bargain, thereby necessitating
the amendment of the charge.
She further told the Court that the defendant was arrested alongside
some others at Osapa-Lodon, Lekki, Lagos State, during a raid conducted
by operatives of the EFCC acting on intelligence report.
The defendant, she said, was interrogated upon his arrest and the
Samsung S8 phone recovered from him also forensically analysed.
She said: "The result of the forensic examination was a number of
fraudulent documents containing false pretence."
"They were shown to the defendant, and he admitted that they belonged
to him."
"He also admitted that he was a middle man, who provided fraudulent
documents to perpetrate online fraud, and had made $200."
Adewunmi, thereafter, tendered in evidence the statement of the
defendant, the fraudulent documents printed out from his device,
his statement restituting the $200 and the phone recovered from him.
There was no objection from the defence counsel, Charles Akinpelu.
Thereafter, the Court admitted them in evidence as Exhibits P to P3.
Following his guilty plea, Justice Dada pronounced him guilty as
charged and sentenced him to one year in prison, with an option of
fine of N500,000.
Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the Federal
Government
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
efcc-arrests-2-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
**************************************
27 MAY 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Two Internet Fraudsters in Oshogbo
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, May 26, 2022 secured the conviction
of the duo of Kamorudeen Sodiq Akano and Oyeniyi Hammed Ademola
before Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal High Court
sitting in Oshogbo, Osun State, for fraudulent impersonation.
The convicts were arraigned on a separate one count charge of
impersonation.
The charge against Oyeniyi reads: "That you, Oyeniyi Hammed Ademola
(m) on or about the 24th day of March 2017, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did fraudulently represent yourself as Mary,
a white female citizen from the United States of America, with intent
to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv)
of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015."
The charge against Akano reads: "That you, Kamorudeen Sodiq Akano
sometimes in 2021, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
fraudulently impersonated Michael Borgen, a white man from the United
States of America, with intent to gain advantage for yourself and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (3) (a) of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable
under Section 22 (4) of the same Act."
Upon their arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges
filed against them.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Bashir Shamsuddeen
prayed the court to convict and sentence them as charged.
Justice Ayo-Emmanuel convicted and sentenced Oyeniyi to six months
imprisonment while Akano bagged five months jail term.
Also, the court ordered that Oyeniyi forfeit N5, 746, 683. 86 (Five
Million, Seven Hundred and Forty Six Thousand, Six Hundred Eighty Three
Naira, Eighty Six Kobo) domiciled in his various bank accounts, one
iPhone handset and one Techno Camon 11 Pro mobile phone to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
Furthermore, Akano was ordered to restitute the sum of $650USD (Six
Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars), and forfeit one iPhone 12
Pro Max mobile phone and one MacBook Pro Laptop to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
efcc-secures-conviction-of-two-internet-fraudsters-in-oshogbo
*******************************************
26 MAY 2022
Internet Fraudster Jailed in Kaduna,
to Refund N36.6m to American Victim
Justice M.G Umar of the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has
convicted and sentenced Livinus Imoesi Oshioke, alias Alexander Lutz,
to six months imprisonment for internet-related fraud.
He was jailed on Thursday, May 26, 2022, after pleading guilty to
three-count amended charges bordering on cybercrime, upon being arraigned
by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC. One of the counts reads: "That you, Livinus Imoesi Oshioke alias
Alexander Lutz, M, sometime in 2021 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud impersonated one Alexander
Lutz; a white male living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and claiming
to be financially stranded when you falsely presented that your account
domiciled in South Turin Bank with a balance of $3, 556,463.00 USD was
blocked and that you needed help to pay the requisite fees to recover
same which pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an
offence contrary to and punishable under Section 22(2)(b)(i) of
Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act2015".
The suspect pleaded guilty to the three -count charges when they were
read to him.
Upon his guilty plea, prosecution counsel, Precious C. Onyeneho prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Umar thereafter convicted and sentenced the defendant to six
months imprisonment and ordered him to forfeit the following items to
the Federal Government: one Apple Macbook Laptop, one black and silver
Dell Laptop, one Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max and one Mercedes Benz SUV GLK
350 Model . Others are the sum of N4, 556,573.06(Four Million, Five
Hundred and Fifty Six Thousand, Five Hundred and Seventy Three Naira,
Six Kobo), N82, 438.80(Eighty Two Thousand, Four Hundred and Thirty
Eight Naira, Eighty Kobo) and N28, 000,346.25(Twenty Eight Million,
Three Hundred and Forty Six Naira, Twenty Five Kobo) to forfeit to
the government.
The court further ordered that all the forfeited monies, and the
proceeds from the sale of the Mercedes Benz SUV should be handed
over to the victim of the crime, an American named Marva Marrow,
by the EFCC, through the United States Embassy, as restitution.
Oshioke’s journey to the Correctional Centre started when he was
arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC
for internet-related activities. Investigations showed that he
is a member of a four-man syndicate impersonating foreigners to
defraud their victims. Specifically, he impersonated an American,
Alexander Lutz to defraud another American: Marva Marrow of large
sums of money.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-jailed-in-kaduna-to-refund-n36-6m-to-american-victim
*****************************************
26 MAY 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Two Years in Port Harcourt
Justice A .T. Mohammed of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State, has convicted and sentenced Abiye Dokubo
to two years imprisonment for impersonation
He was convicted on May 19, 2022, on one-count charge bordering
on impersonation, upon his arraignment by the Port Harcourt Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The count-charge read: "that you Abiye Dokubo on or about the 10th
of November, 2021 at Eagle Island, Port Harcourt within the jurisdiction
of this Honorable Court fraudulently impersonated yourself to be one
Nina Lambert via your Telegram account with the intent to gain advantage
for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2)
(b) (1) of Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act 2015 and
punishable under Section 22 (2) of the same Act".
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, J .N. Dogonyaro prayed the
court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Mohammed convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years
imprisonment, with an option of fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira
(N100, 000) payable into the Consolidated Revenue Fund Account of
the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The court also ordered that the
phones recovered from the convict be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release conntains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-two-years-in-port-harcourt
**********************************************
26 MAY 2022
Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Thursday May 26, 2022, secured the conviction of two internet
fraudsters, Aigbe Joseph and Adefulire Abiodun before Justice Efe
Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City.
Joseph and Abiodun were arraigned on one count each of fraudulently
representing themselves in order to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Aigbe Joseph reads: "that you, Aigbe Joseph sometime
between 2019 and 21st February, 2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent
yourself to be Jeannette Provencal, a lady based in the United States of
America, thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 484 of the Criminal code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of
Nigeria (as applicable in Edo state) 1976".
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges when they were arraigned
prompting the prosecution counsel, A.A. Ozigbu to ask the court to convict
and sentence them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants, A.S. Adeshina and A.S. Akinfolarin
pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants
have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba sentenced Joseph to three years imprisonment with
an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine while Adefulire Abiodun
bagged two years imprisonment with an option of One Hundred and Fifty
Thousand Naira fine.
The judge also ordered that the Mercedes Benz C300 car recovered from
Joseph at the point of arrest and the balances in his bank accounts be
forfeited to the Federal Government.
The convicts also forfeit their phones to the Federal Government of Nigeria
being proceeds and instrument of fraud.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
************************************
26 MAY 2022
EFCC Arrests Nine Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Benin
Zonal Command, on Tuesday May 24, 2022 arrested nine suspected internet
fraudsters in Benin City.
The suspects: Makata Lucky, Samson Shakore, Ase Daniel, Osamwonu Terry,
Moses Nosa, Makata John, Mataka James, Eze Solomon and Emmanuel Noghase
were arrested at their hideout following actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from them at the point of arrest include mobile phones
and two cars (Lexus 330EX and Accura MDX).
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned in court
as soon as the investigation is concluded..
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-nine-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
********************************************
25 MAY 2022
Court Jails Three Internet Fraudsters in Uyo
Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke of the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo,
Akwa Ibom has convicted and sentenced three internet fraudsters: Onyemaechi
Martins Chikere, Tochukwu ThankGod Amuzie and Promise Okon to one-year
imprisonment each, without an option of fine, for offences bordering on
criminal impersonation.
They were jailed on Wednesday, May 24, 2022 after pleading guilty to
one-count separate charge preferred against them by the Uyo Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge reads: "That you, Tochukwu ThankGod Amuzie, sometime in 2022
in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, with intent
to obtain property and gain advantage for yourself, fraudulently presented
yourself as Rahul Lilapara, Birmaram Kumawat, Eko Yudho, Navid80, Mikhailm73,
Dhaval Panchal, Puji, Eliptic Trad.co and Coinmatic Financial Investment,
as an American Bitcoin Manager to your victims on social media platforms
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and
(ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015 and punishable
under Section 22 (b) (iv) of the same Act".
They pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to them individually.
In view of their pleas, counsel to the EFCC, S. R. Akinrinlade, prayed
the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, both defence
counsel: Udeme Tom and I. G. Udofia pleaded for leniency.
Justice Adegoke convicted and sentenced the trio to one-year imprisonment
each, without an option of a fine. The court also ordered that all instruments
used in committing the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The convicts met their waterloo on April 12, 2022 when operatives of the
Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC arrested them, acting on verified intelligence
that linked the convicts to some online criminal activities, including the
impersonation of foreign bitcoin managers, with intent to defraud unsuspecting
citizens.
[The remainder of the article deals with a non-419 matter]
The press release contains photos of all three 419ers:
court-jails-three-internet-fraudsters-in-uyo
*******************************************
25 MAY 2022
Two Convicted in Oyo, One in Osun for Internet Fraud
An Oyo State High Court, on Tuesday May 24, 2022, convicted the duo
of Timothy Oluwaseun Oni and Abdulwahab Oladimeji Muhammed on a
separate one count amended charge bordering on criminal impersonation.
The court presided over by Justice Bayo Taiwo, convicted the defendants
after they pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against them by
the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC.
Justice Taiwo, after considering the the facts of the cases and the
evidence by the prosecution, held that the prosecution had proved the
cases and sentenced the convicts to six months community service each.
In addition to the jail terms, the judge ordered Oni to restitute the
sum of $2,000USD (Two Thousand United States Dollars) to his victim
and forfeit one 2011 Mercedes Benz car, one iPhone 12 Pro Max mobile
phone, a Samsung Galaxy S8 phone and one Apple iPad.
He also ordered that Abdulwahab pay the sum of N311, 573.00 (Three
Hundred and Eleven Thousand, Five Hundred and Seventy Three Naira)
found in his Kuda Microfinance Bank Account as restitution.
The charge against Abdulwahab reads: "That you Abdulwahad Oladimeji
Muhammed on or about the 9th day of March, 2021 at Ibadan, Oyo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to
defraud falsely represented yourself as Jane Smith, a white lady
from the United States of America, which representation you knew
to be false and thereby committed an offence of impersonation contrary
to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State,
2000."
The charge against Oni reads: "That you Timothy Oluwaseun Oni on or
about the 11th day of March, 2021 at Ibadan, Oyo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud falsely
represented yourself as James Tina, a white lady from the United States
of America, which representation you knew to be false and thereby committed
an offence contrary of impersonation contrary to Section 484 of the
Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
In a related development, Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal
High Court sitting in Oshogbo, Osun State, on Monday, May 23, 2022,
convicted and sentenced one Emmanuel Ifeanyi Odinaka to six months
imprisonment on one count charge bordering on internet fraud.
The count reads: "That you, Emmanuel Ifeanyi Odinaka (a.k.a Mary Cathy)
sometime in 2021, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with
intent to gain advantage for yourself did impersonate one Mary Cathy,
the pretext you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) the
Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.)Act, 2015."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge upon arraignment.
Justice Ayo-Emmanuel afterwards, convicted and sentenced Ifeanyi to
six months imprisonment.
Furthermore, the convict was ordered to restitute the sum of $250USD
(Two Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars) and forfeit one iPhone
8 Plus mobile phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
two-convicted-in-oyo-one-in-osun-for-internet-fraud
*****************************************
24 MAY 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday May 24, 2022 secured the conviction of Aguebor Osabouhien
Kessington and Aruna Charles Destiny before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo
State High Court sitting in Benin City.
They were arraigned on one count each of fraudulent impersonation and
obtaining by false pretence.
The charge against Kessington reads: "that you Aguebor Osabouhien Kessington
on 31st March, 2021 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did with intent to defraud personated yourself as an American
actor, Charlie Hunnan on Facebook platform, and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48,
Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State) 1976".
The charge against Destiny reads: "that you, Aruna Charles Destiny (M) sometime
in 2021 at Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be one Sexisimon, an American,
by sending documents to unsuspecting American ladies through Instagram and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo state) 1976."
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge, prompting the
prosecution counsel, A.A. Ozigbu to ask the court to convict and sentence them
accordingly.
However, the defence counsel pleaded with the court to temper justice with
mercy as the defendants have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba consequently sentenced Kessington to two years imprisonment
or an option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira, while Aruna Charles Destiny bagged
two years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.
The judge ordered that one iPhone 6, Samsung Galaxy A12, one Dell laptop recovered
in the course of investigation, being proceeds and instruments of crime, be forfeited
to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release includes a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin
*****************************************
24 MAY 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster in Uyo
Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke of the Federal High Court sitting in
Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has convicted and sentenced 19-year old internet
fraudster, Mgbak Okan Enyam to six months imprisonment for criminal
impersonation.
Enyam was jailed on Monday, May 23, 2022, after pleading guilty to
one-count charge preferred against him by the Uyo Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one count charge read: "That you, Mgbak Okan Enyam (a.k.a Michelle
A. Mccauley) "M" sometime in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honorable
Court did fraudulently impersonate one Michelle A. McCauley, a Crypto
currency manager and Bitcoin Analyst, to unsuspecting victims, with intent
to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention,
etc ) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (2) (iv) of the same
Act".
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, EFCC's counsel, S. R. Akinrinlade, prayed the court
to convict and sentence him accordingly.
Justice Adegoke convicted Enyam and sentenced him to six months imprisonment
with an option of fine of N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira). The court
also ordered the convict to forfeit instruments used in committing the crime
to the Federal Government.
Enyam’s journey to the Correctional Centre began when he was arrested by
operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC, on March 31, 2022 in Calabar
following verified intelligence concerning his involvement in cybercrimes.
He was prosecuted and subsequently convicted.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-in-uyo
********************************************
24 MAY 2022
Court Jails Undergraduate Two Years over Cyber Fraud in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 secured the conviction of one Oyedotun
Adebayo Adebowale, a student of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin over
offences bordering on cybercrime.
Oyedotun, 19, was prosecuted on one count charge before Justice Muhammed
Sani of the Federal High Court, Ilorin.
The judge found him guilty of the charge and sentenced him to two years
imprisonment with option of fine of N300, 000 (Three Hundred Thousand
Naira Only).
Investigations had earlier revealed that Oyedotun had in his possession
over N21million suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities and a
Toyota Camry Car, which he purchased using his mother’s name.
Upon arraignment, he pleaded guilty to the charge.
Following his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Sesan Ola, reviewed the facts
of the case and tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendant,
iPhone 12 Pro Max, key and particulars of the Toyota Camry Car recovered
from him and a draft of N350,000 (Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira
Only), which were admitted in evidence.
The counsel urged the court to take judicial notice of the unchallenged
evidence placed before it as well as the provisions of the law to convict
the defendant as charged.
Justice Sani in his judgment held that the prosecution had successfully
established its case against the defendant.
In sentencing the convict, the judge ordered that one iPhone 12 Pro Max,
HP laptop, a Toyota Camry Car, a draft of N350, 000 (Three Hundred and
Fifty Thousand Naira) which he raised as restitution be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-undergraduate-two-years-over-cyber-fraud-in-ilorin
******************************************
24 MAY 2022
Ado-Ekiti Based Yahoo Boy Convicted in Ilorin,
Forfeits Lekki Mansion, Car to FG
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin,
on Monday, May 23, 2022 convicted a certain fraudster, Ajewole Oluseyi
David, based in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, for offences bordering on
internet fraud.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of a duplex situated at Lekki,
Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, worth over N60million
and one RS 350 Lexus car worth more than N6million, which the convict
procured with proceeds of his illegal activities.
Ajewole was prosecuted alongside seven other fraudsters over similar
offence by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
They are Ebenezer Olamilekan Apata from Akure, Ondo State; Obadun
Abiodun Taofeek from Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State;
Ayeni Kayode from Iludun-Ekiti, Ekiti State; Alade Oluwatosin Daniel
from Owo/Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State; Ojo Tobi from Moba
Local Government Area of Ekiti State; Adeyemi Segun from Esa-Oke Local
Government Area of Osun State and one Akinrinmola Olumide.
The convicts were among the 30 fraud suspects arrested by EFCC operatives
during a sting operation in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State Capital, on April 26,
2022, except for Adeyemi Segun that was arrested in Ogbomosho Area of
Oyo State sometime in October 2021.
The convicts, who were prosecuted on separate charges, pleaded guilty
to their respective charge.
Upon the "guilty plea" entered by the defendants, Innocent Mbachie,
Sesan Ola and Andrew Akoja who prosecuted the cases on behalf of
the Commission reviewed the facts of the cases and tendered several
incriminating materials recovered from them at the point of arrest,
which were admitted in evidence.
The EFCC counsel urged the court to consider the "guilty plea" of
the defendants; their extra-judicial statements and the uncontroverted
evidence of the prosecution as well as the provisions of the law in
convicting the defendants as charged.
Delivering judgment on the cases, Justice Sani upheld the submissions
of the prosecuting counsel and pronounced the defendants guilty of their
respective charges.
The judge, while sentencing the convicts to various jail terms ordered
the forfeiture of the items used as instruments of the crime and acquired
with proceeds of the illegal activities by the convicts to the Federal
Government.
ado-ekiti-based-yahoo-boy-convicted-in-ilorin-forfeits-lekki-mansion-car-to-fg
***********************************************
23 MAY 2022
EFCC Arrests 22 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Asaba
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Benin
Zonal Command on Sunday May 22, 2022 arrested 22 suspected internet
fraudsters.
The suspects: Promise Bassey, Raymond Diamond, Ifeanyi Anyasi,
Celestine Osalenlen, Johnbull Kingsley, Ikekhua Mately, Clifford
Johnson, Akorah Chinedu, Kester Ogochukwu Idugba Junior and Lucky
Egwuatu. Others are Victor Nwabunwanna, Happiness Ayo, Rawlings
Nwabunwanna, Eleka Ikeja, Oliseh Emeka, Ozuwa Destiny, Prince
Erik Nnamdi, Emmanuel Ochuku Igben, Tochukwu Onyido, Gift Onuajefe
and Odosun Matthew, were arrested at their hideout in Asaba,
Delta State following actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from them include two Mercedes Benz GLK 350
4Matic and mobile phones.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned
in court soon.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-22-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-asaba
*******************************************
23 MAY 2022
EFCC Arraigns Suspect for Alleged Visa Scam
The Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC on Monday, May 23, 2022 arraigned
one Raphael Otobo on a three count charge of intent to defraud before
Justice (Professor) C. A. Obiozor of the Federal High Court sitting
in Benin City, Edo State.
Otobo is alleged to have defrauded one Kenneth Asuma Osaghe of the
aggregate sum of One Million Naira under the false pretense of helping
him secure a Canadian visa.
One of the counts reads : "that you, Raphael Otobo sometime in July
2018 at Benin, Edo State within the jurisdiction of the Federal High
Court with intent to defraud, did induced one Kenneth Asuma Osaghe
to pay the sum of N420,000 into account number 2064628954 domiciled
at UBA under the false pretense that the money was for Canadian Visa,
a representation you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence
contrary to section 1(1)(b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act,2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the
same Act."
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the three count charge preferred
against him.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, I.K. Agwai asked the
court for a trial date and to also remand the defendant at a Correctional
Facility. However, counsel to the defendant, Emmanuel Izegaegbe prayed
the court to grant the defendant bail, stating that the alleged offences
were bailable.
Justice Obiozor granted the defendant bail in the sum of One Million
Naira with one surety in like sum. The surety shall be resident in Benin
and own a landed property within the jurisdiction of the court.
The court also ordered that both the defendant and the surety shall
submit two passport photographs to the court.
The case was adjourned till 14th June, 2022 for hearing.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arraigns-suspect-for-alleged-visa-scam
*************************************
19 MAY 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster in Port Harcourt
Justice S. I. Mark of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State, has convicted and sentenced 22- year old internet fraudster,
Daniel Chukwu, to one year imprisonment for impersonation.
He was convicted on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 after pleading 'guilty' to
one-count charge bordering on impersonation, upon his arraignment by the
Port Harcourt’s Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
The count charge read; "that you Daniel Chukwu (a.ka.) Keanu Reeves,
between 2021 and 2022, at Asaba, within the jurisdiction of this honourable
court, fraudulently impersonated Keanu Reeves, a United States of America
celebrity with intent to gain monetary advantage from one Annjenlena
Holappa from Sweden and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
22 (2) (b) (ii) of the Cybercrimes (Prevention, Prohibition, etc) Act, 2015.
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge preferred against him by the prosecution.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, S. A. Kyenge prayed the court to
convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. Defence counsel, Paula O.
Abudu, however, prayed the court "to temper justice with mercy, because he
is a first- time offender and does not have previous criminal records".
Justice Mark convicted and sentenced the defendant to one year imprisonment
with an option of fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000.00) payable
into the Consolidated Revenue Fund Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Judge also ordered that the iphone 12 promax which the convict used in
committing the crime, should be forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He also ordered him to pay restitution to his victim.
Daniel's journey to the Correctional Service started, when a petitioner alleged
his involvement in internet-related activities. He was arrested and further
investigations showed that, he presented himself as Keanu Reeves, an American
celebrity and fraudulently defrauded his victim a total sum of Two Thousand
Four Hundred Dollars ($2400 ). He was thereafter prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of "Keanu":
court-jails-internet-fraudster-in-port-harcourt
*****************************************
17 MAY 2022
Court Jails Two Fraudsters Six Years In Kaduna
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court sitting in Kaduna,
has convicted and sentenced two fraudsters to six years imprisonment
for impersonation and cybercrimes.
The convicts: Mmadubionwu Tochukwu Kingsley and Samuel Ngode Wobin
were jailed on Monday, May 16, 2022, after pleading guilty to one-count
separate charge bordering on impersonation, upon their arraignment by
the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC.
The one count charge read: "That you Mmadubionwu Tochukwu Kingsley (m)
sometime in April, 2022 at Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, in an attempt to commit fraud falsely presented yourself as one Gerald
Keith, a white man and an entrepreneur on instalgram App ( a social media
online network), when you knew you were not, and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 142 (1) of the Kaduna State Penal
Code Law, 2017".
"That you, Samuel Ngode Wobin (M), sometime in April, 2022 at Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court in an attempt to commit fraud falsely
presented yourself as one Thomas Broussard; an American military personnel
stationed in El Segundo, Los Angeles, California to Jessica R. Brownskin,
when you knew you were not and thereby committed an offence contrary to and
punishable under Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017".
They both pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to them individually.
Based on their pleas, EFCC Counsels: M.E Eimonye and E.K Garba prayed the
court to convict them accordingly.
Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced Kingsley and Wobin to three years
imprisonment each. They were also offered an option of fine of N150,000
( One Hundred and Fifty Thousand) each. The judge ordered them to forfeit
the phones used to commit the crimes to the Federal Government.
The convicts’ journey to the Correctional Centre started when they were
arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC, based on
credible intelligence on their involvement in cybercrimes in the Kaduna
metropolis. They were subsequently charged to court and convicted.
The press release contains photos of both 419ers:
court-jails-two-fraudsters-six-years-in-kaduna
***************************************
13 MAY 2022
Kwara Farmer, Three Others Jailed for Cybercrime in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Friday, May 13, 2022 secured the conviction of a 29 year-old farmer,
Yusuf Abiodun Babatunde from Osi, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State
and three others for offences bordering on impersonation and retention of
of crime.
The three other convicts are Abdulrahman Mudashir Aileru from Ilorin South
Local Government Area of Kwara State; one Uthman Busari from Oyo State and
Iyanuoluwa from Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Justice Mohammed Sani of the Federal High Court Ilorin convicted and sentenced
the defendants to various jail terms upon their 'guilty ple'’ to the separate
charges brought against them by the EFCC.
Sesan Ola, Andrew Akoja and Rasheedat Alao who prosecuted the cases on behalf
of the Commission reviewed the facts of the cases. The counsel tendered exhibits
recovered from the defendants at the point of arrest, which were admitted in
evidence. The items include phones, laptops, a car and the extra-judicial
statements of the defendants.
They urged the court to convict the defendants based on their admittance of
guilt and the uncontroverted evidence tendered before it.
Justice Sani in his judgment agreed that the prosecution had proved the cases
beyond reasonable doubt and pronounced the defendants guilty as charged.
The Judge sentenced Yusuf to three years imprisonment with option of fine of
N1,578,000 (One Million, Five Hundred and Seventy Eight Thousand Naira Only).
The court also ordered the forfeiture of oneToyota Camry 2007 Car, iPhone Xr
and HP laptop recovered from the convict at the point of arrest to the Federal
Government.
Similarly, Justice Sani sentenced Abdulrahman to one year imprisonment with
option of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine. The judge ordered
that one iPhone 13, one laptop which the convict used to perpetrate the crime
and a parcel of land which he bought with the proceeds of unlawful activities
be forfeited to the Federal Government.
For Uthman, the court pronounced a prison term of one year on count 1 with
option of fine of N1,182,633 ( One Million, One Hundred and Eighty Two Thousand,
Six Hundred and Thirty Three Hundred Naira Only) and one year imprisonment on
count 2 with option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). The convict
is to forfeit the iPhone 12 which he used to perpetrate the crime and the sum
of $40 (Forty Dollars) which he raised as restitution to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Justice Sani sentenced Adewole to six months imprisonment each
on count 1 and 2 with option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only)
on each count. The judge also ordered the convict to forfeit the iPhone 6 which
he used as the instrumentality of the crime to the Federal Government.
The press release contains small photos of all four 419ers:
kwara-farmer-three-others-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*********************************************
13 MAY 2022
EFCC Arrests Twenty-Three Suspected Cybercriminals in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested twenty three
(23) suspected internet fraudsters in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The suspects were arrested on Thursday May 12, 2022 at Apata,
Jericho and Ire Akari Estate areas of Ibadan following credible
intelligence on their alleged computer fraud-related activities.
Sixteen of the suspects: Oluwole Oduwanye Kelvin, Adams Segun
Ojo, Amuwo Oluwagbemi Oluwatobi, Theophilus Ademola Akinyele,
Mimiola Olamide Victor, Ajayi Pelumi Pamilerin, Tolulope Adara
Mati Timothy, Bamgbose Temitayo Abiodun, Ajibola Timilehin Isreal,
Ajibade Habeeb Olakunle, Tobiloba Isaiah Seyi, Joseph Odunayo Clement,
Victor John Enya, Odebode Temiloluwa Kehinde, Olaniyi Ajibola Roqeeb,
and Olushola Oyetunde Samuel were indicted by forensic analyses
carried out on their devices and the incriminating documents recovered
from them.
Seven others: Oladipo Tunde Lawrence, Eludire Gbemileke Joseph,
Gbenga Abiona Wale, Ojuwaye Emeka Oluwaseun, Babatunde Kolade Tunde,
Abu Idris Olalekan and Boye Timilehin Emmanuel, are still under
investigation.
Seven exotic cars, mobile phones, laptops and several incriminating
documents were recovered from the suspects.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains several photos:
efcc-arrests-twenty-three-suspected-cybercriminals-in-ibadan
**********************************************
13 MAY 2022
Court Sends Five Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday May 12, 2022 secured the conviction
of five internet fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of
Edo State High Court, Benin City.
They are was Amogie Julius, Omogbon Friday Harry, Osaze Okoro,
Lucky Tegiri and Omokhua Destiny.
They were arraigned on one count charge each for fraudulent impersonation
and obtaining by false pretence. They had sometimes between 2020 to 2022,
impersonated foreign nationals with intent to defraud unsuspecting members
of the public of their hard earned money.
The charge against Amiogie Julius reads: "that you, Amoigie Julius between
2020 to 2022 at Wisdom Street , off Egba Road , Benin City ,Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently personate the
identity of Gloria Hernandez Ortiz, with intent to obtain money from her
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 484 of the criminal
Code Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria ( as applicable in Edo
state ) 1976".
The charge against Lucky Tegiri reads: "that you Lucky Tegiri on or about
22nd February 2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did with intent to defraud falsely represented yourself
to be one Mark Linda by creating two fraudulent email accounts, with user
names dcluck75@gmail.com and company, giveaway7610@gmail.com, by sending
text messages to some unsuspecting Chinese ladies, so as to obtain money,
a representation which you knew is false and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap
48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State) 1976".
All the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge preferred against them
prompting the prosecution counsel, A.A. Ozigbu and KY Bello, to prayed
the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, counsel
to the defendants prayed the court to temper justice with mercy as the
defendants have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Destiny to three years
imprisonment with an option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira as fine
while Okoro bagged two years imprisonment or a fine of Three Hundred
Thousand Naira.
The duo of Julius and Friday were sentenced to two years imprisonment
with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira and One Hundred and Fifty
Thousand Naira fine respectively. Tegiri bagged one year imprisonment
or an option of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira fine.
Justice Ikponmwonba also ordered that a landed property measuring 100
feet by 100 feet situated at Evboneka in Ovie North East L.G.A recovered
from Julius and phones of all the defendants which are proceeds of crime
be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of two of the 419ers:
court-sends-five-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin
************************************
12 MAY 2022
EFCC Nabs YahooYahoo Academy Owner, 16 'Trainees' in Abuja
Operatives of the Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested one Afolabi Samad, owner of
a Yahoo Yahoo Academy in Abuja.
The 24-year-old was arrested on Thursday May 12, 2022, in a sting
operation alongside 16 of his students. The youngsters between the
ages of 18 and 27 years were arrested at their hideout located in
Peace Court Estate, Lokogoma, a suburb of Abuja.
The owner of the alleged Academy rented the 3 bedroom flat for Three
Million Naira to impact the tricks of cyber-frauds on his apprentices
for undisclosed fees.
Item recovered from the suspects include laptops, phones, charms
and two vehicles: a Lexus RX350 and Toyota Highlander.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-nabs-yahooyahoo-academy-owner-16-trainees-in-abuja
****************************************
12 MAY 2022
From Yahoo News:
How 'Leonardo DiCaprio' Scammed a Houston Widow Out of $800K
by Claiming He Was Trapped in Scientology
by Tony Ortega
The article is excellent, but too long to be posted here,
so readers will have to use the following link to read it in
full:
leonardo-dicaprio-scammed-houston-widow
*******************************************
11 MAY 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Jailed in Benin,
Forfeit Mercedes Benz GLK 350 Car to FG
Two internet fraudsters, Humphrey Omosivie and Tony Imalele were
on Wednesday May 11, 2022 convicted and sentenced to prison by Justice
Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City.
The duo were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission on separate one count charges of
impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
Omosivie and Imalele fraudulently impersonated one Nicole, a Canadian
citizen, and Anthony Miller, a citizen of the United States of America,
respectively with intent to obtain money from unsuspecting members
of the public.
The charge against Omosivie reads: "that you, Humphrey Omosivie (aka
Nicole ) between 2020 and 2022 at Igbobadia Street, near Ukwa, Benin
City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
fraudulently personate the identity of Nicole, from Canada with intent
to obtain money from unsuspecting public and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 484 and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal
Law Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo state )
1976".
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, K.Y. Bello, to ask the
court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
However, the defence counsel, M.O. Omozeghie and F.E. Oberabor prayed
the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants have become
remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Omosivie to two years
imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine, while
Imalele bagged two years imprisonment with an option of One Hundred
and Fifty Thousand Naira fine.
Justice Ikponmwonba also ordered the forfeiture of Mercedes Benz GLK
350, 2013 model recovered from Omosivie and their phones, being proceeds
of crime, to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-jailed-in-benin-forfeits-mercedes-benz-glk-350-car-to-fg
**********************************************
10 MAY 2022
Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters in Calabar
A Federal High Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State, has
sentenced Ojinnaka Malachy and Michael Kenneth Goodluck to one
year imprisonment each, for internet-related offences.
They were jailed on Tuesday, May 10, 2022, after pleading guilty
to one-count separate charge bordering on impersonation and obtaining
by false pretence, preferred against them by the Uyo Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
One of the charge reads: "That you Michael Kennet Goodluck sometime
in 2022 in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
with intent to obtain property and gain advantage for yourself,
fraudulently presented yourself as Roberto Enrique to the duo of
Hoovey and Maya on Facebook and fraudulently obtained the sum of
One Thousand dollars ($1,000) and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) & (ii) of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act 2015 and punishable under 22
(b) and (iv) of the same Act".
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, S. R. Akinrinlade,
reviewed the facts of the two cases and prayed the court to convict
and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Dugbo Oghoghorie thereafter convicted Malachy and Goodluck
and sentenced them to one year imprisonment each with an option of
fine of N500, 000. 00 ( Five Hundred Thousand Naira only) and two
weeks of community service within the court premises, They were
also ordered to forfeit their phones to the Federal Government
and restitute the various sums they benefitted to their victims.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre opened when they
were arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC
at different locations within Akwa Ibom and Delta States.
They made confessional statements that corroborated their involvement
in the crimes. While Goodluck portrayed himself as Roberto Enrique
on Facebook and successfully defrauded his victim of $1000, Malachy
impersonated one Caleb Ini on Facebook and benefited $250 from his
victims.
The press release contains a photo of each 419 matter:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar
************************************************
10 MAY 2022
Court Sends Internet Fraudster to Jail in Benin
The Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC on Tuesday May 10, 2022 secured
the conviction of one internet fraudster, Osakpolor Joseph Moses
before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court, Benin City.
Moses was arraigned on one count charge of fraudulent impersonation.
The charge reads: "that you, Osakpolor Joseph Moses between 2018 and
2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did fraudulently impersonate the identity of one Miller Wayne,
a white man with intent to defraud unsuspecting ladies and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of
the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable
in Edo state) 1976."
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge prompting
the prosecution counsel, I.K. Agwai, to ask the court to convict and
sentence him accordingly.
Justice Ikpombonwon convicted and sentenced Moses to two (2) years
imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200, 000)
fine. The court also ordered that items recovered during investigation
which are proceeds of crime be forfeited to the Federal government
of Nigeria.
[The remainder of the press release deals with a non-419 related matter]
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-in-benin
***********************************
10 MAY 2022
Court Jails One Internet Fraudster in Port Harcourt
Justice S .D. Pam of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State has convicted and sentenced Tamuno Emi West to two years
imprisonment for false pretences.
He was convicted on Monday May 9, 2022, after pleading guilty to
one-count charge bordering on advance fee fraud, upon being arraigned
by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The lone count read: "That you, Tamuno Emi West, on the 10th November,
2021, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court did possess document via your Telegram Account to
wit: Forex/Binary Limited containing false pretense and thereby
committed an offense contrary to Section 6 and 8 (b) of Advance Fee
Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under
Section 1 (3) of the same Act".
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, O.C. Isiguzoro prayed the
court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. Defence counsel,
Paula Abudu aligned himself with Isiguzoro’s prayers.
Justice Pam thereafter convicted and sentenced West to two years
imprisonment with an option of fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira
(N200, 000.00) payable into the Consolidated Revenue Fund Account
of the Federation.
The Judge also ordered the forfeiture of all items recovered from
the convict at the point of arrest. The items are: one iPhone 6 phone,
two small Nokia phones and a Zinox laptop. They are to be sold and
the proceeds paid into EFCC's Recovery account with the Central
Bank of Nigeria, CBN.
West's journey to the Correctional Centre began when he was arrested
by operatives of the EFCC in a sting operation conducted on November
10, 2021 at Tiger Close, Ada George, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Investigations were made into his involvement in internet-related
activities. He was charged to court and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-one-internet-fraudster-in-port-harcourt
********************************************
9 MAY 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster in Benin
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court sitting in
Benin City on Monday May 9, 2022, convicted and sentenced one
Sunday Peter Etim to two years imprisonment for fraud.
Etim was prosecuted by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC for
fraudulent impersonation.
One of the counts against Etim reads: "that you Sunday Peter
Etim alias (Steven Batt) sometime in 2021 in Benin City, Edo
State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with
intent to defraud one Sadhna, an Indian falsely represented
yourself to be one Steven Batt and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under section 484 of the Criminal
Code, Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable
in Edo State) 1976."
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his pleas, the prosecution counsel, K. U. Udus, prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. However,
the defence counsel, A. E.
Ambrose pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as
the defendant was a first time offender who has become remorseful
for his action.
Justice Ikpowmwonba convicted and sentenced the defendant to two
years imprisonment with an option of Seven Hundred Thousand Naira
(N700,000) fine.
In addition, the defendant shall forfeit his mobile phone and
laptop computer to the Federal Government of Nigeria. He is also
to undertake in writing to be of good behavior.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-in-benin
****************************************
30 APR 2022
EFCC Arrests 18 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, have arrested 18 suspected internet fraudsters in
Lagos.
The suspects are: Tijani Olumide Ahmed, Balogun Olusola, Ukuhor Richie
Ifemeluona, Ologun Damilola,Adetokunbo Yusuf, Olubiyo Timilehin, Oyegoke
Gafar Olaitan, Agarawu Farug Okikiola, Kazeem Oluwadamilare Adebayo
and Salau Rahmon.
Others are: Abdulrahman Adeshina Olasunkanmi, Rasheed Remilekun, Adeyanju
Kehinde Emmanuel,Owolabi Temidayo Habeeb,Ojora Usman Olawale, Mubarak
Balogun, Rafiu Olusegun and Ayobami Habeeb Oyeleye.
They were arrested on Friday, April 29, 2022 at Victoria Crest Estate III,
Gate II, Augusta Amadi Street, Off Orchid Road, Lekki, Lagos, following
intelligence reports received by the Commission about their alleged
involvement in computer-related fraud.
tems recovered from the suspects include cars, laptop computers, mobile
phones and charms.
The suspects will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-18-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
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29 APR 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Three Year Jail Term in Port Harcourt
Justice S. I. Mark of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State has convicted and sentenced an internet fraudster, Collins
Williams Chinonyerem to three years in prison for impersonation, contrary
to Section 22 (3) (a) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prevention, Prohibition,
etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (4) of the same Act
He was convicted after pleading ‘guilty’ upon an arraignment Thursday
April 28, 2022, on one count charge by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command
of the EFCC.
The count charge reads:
"That you, Collins Williams Chinonyerem on or about the 25th day of
February, 2022 at Port Harcourt within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did fraudulently impersonate one Horic, an American National, with
intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 22 (3) (a) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prevention,
Prohibition, etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (4) of the
same Act".
In view of his guilty plea, prosecution counsel, C. Okorie, prayed the
court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Counsel to the defendant, E. B. Ekong asked the court to temper justice
with mercy stating that he is a first time offender with no previous
criminal record.
Justice Mark convicted and sentenced the defendant to three years in
the Correctional Service with an option of a fine of One Million Naira
(N1,000,000.00) payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the
Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Judge also ordered that one Apple Laptop used in committing the
offence be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria, auctioned
by the Secretary of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and
the proceeds paid into the EFCC Recovery Account domiciled in the
Central Bank of Nigeria. The convict is also to depose to an affidavit
to be of good behaviour.
Chinonyerem's journey to the Correctional Service started when he was
arrested in a sting operation by officers of EFCC in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State for internet fraud activities.
Investigation shows that the convict created a Romeo account with the
user name Doraliss, presented himself as Noah and used the same to
chat with his unsuspecting victims.
internet-fraudster-bags-three-year-jail-term-in-port-harcourt
**************************************
29 APR 2022
Two Cybercriminals Jailed in Oyo, Osun
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, April 28, 2022, secured the conviction
of the duo of Nicholas Ferdinand Paul and Babatunde Joshua Omotayo
separate charges which bordered on impersonation before Justice
Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State and
Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal High Court, Osogbo,
Osun State.
The offence is contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (1) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section
22 (2) (b) of the same Act.
Upon their arraignment, they both pleaded guilty to the charges
preferred against them.
Consequently, the prosecution counsel urged the court to convict
and sentenced them as charged after the facts of case were reviewed
and indicting documents tendered in evidence before the court.
Justice Agomoh convicted and sentenced Nicholas to one year imprisonment
while Babatunde bagged three months jail term.
Also, the convicts were ordered to restitute their various victims and
forfeit all items recovered from them the Federal Government of Nigeria
two-cybercriminals-jailed-in-oyo-osun
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28 APR 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster One Year in Abuja
Justice M.N. Mayana of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High
Court Abuja, has convicted and sentenced Daniel Prosper Nwabueze
to one year imprisonment for romance scam.
Nwabueze was arraigned on one-count charge bordering on impersonation
contrary to Section 320(b) of the Penal Code, Laws of the Federation
(Abuja), 1990 and punishable under Section 322 of the same Laws.
He pleaded guilty to the one- count charge.
Based on his plea, prosecution counsel, Joyce Audu, prayed the court
to convict and sentence him accordingly. However, defence counsels
Anoture Akpofure and Rachel Ogbebor pleaded that the court temper justice
with mercy "as the accused is a first-time offender and has shown remorse".
Justice Mayana convicted and sentenced Nwabueze to one year imprisonment,
with an option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only).
Nwabueze, 21 year-old diploma holder's journey to the Correctional
Centre began when he was arrested for impersonating Aaron David, a
British contractor and engineer based in the United States of America.
Through his deceit, he defrauded a foreigner, Lynn Fletcher of the
sum of $2000 (Two Thousand United States Dollars). He was subsequently
prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-one-year-in-abuja
*************************************
28 APR 2022
EFCC Arrests 29 Internet Fraud Suspects in Owerri>
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Enugu Zonal
Command on Wednesday April 27, 2022, arrested 29 suspected internet
fraudsters in a sting operation at 247 Suite, Bishop Court, Aladinma
Extension, Owerri, Imo State.
Intelligence report received by the commission revealed that the
suspects were specialized in defrauding unsuspecting foreign nationals
of their hard earned money.
The suspects are: Iwueke Kingsley Clinton Ikechukwu, Nwafor Ikechukwu
Okoha, Edokpayi Clifford Osamudiamen,Collins Arinze Chuwkwudiama,
Chimezie Chukwuma Victor,Odo Chinedu Daniel, Humphery Chibueze Daniel,
Henry Chibueze Bright, Akumadu Calvin Ifeanyi, Obilor Paul Ozioma,
Chikezie Ekene Noble,Chigaemezu Dike Stanley, Kelvin Chibuzo Okafor
and Oparaji Prince Uchechi.
Others are: Ejimonyeokwu Jessy Chinonso,Bosco Ndubuisi Chimuanya,
Amaechi Michael Ikechukwu, Amma Wisdom Uzor, Duru Chibuike Augustine,
Solomon Clinton Chidozie, Duru Francis Chiemela, Ugo Victor Losisochukwu,
Ibe Justice Chijindu, Iwuji Blaise Chimereucheya, Onyedibe Chukwuebuka
Godwin, Dim Kizito Nnaemeka , Pastor Ikechukwu Goodness and Collins
Arinze Chukwudiama.
Intelligence indicate that they are involved in various forms of
computer-related frauds targeting mostly foreign nationals.
Some of the items recovered from the suspects include two cars, several
mobile phones and laptops.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-29-internet-fraud-suspects-in-owerri
********************************************
28 APR 2022
Four Convicted for Cyber-fraud, Forfeits Cars, Cash in Oyo
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC has secured the conviction of the quartet of Daramola Damilola Ayode,
Ilori Olalekan, Taiwo Gafar Olamilekan and Olarewaju Sheriff Adebayo
for their involvement in internet fraud.
Ayode, Olalekan and Adebayo were prosecuted before Justice Bayo Taiwo
of the Oyo State High Court while Taiwo Gafar Olamilekan was docked before
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan.
The latter was sentenced to six months imprisonment while the three others
were sentenced to six months community service each after they pleaded
"guilty" to the charges preferred against them by the EFCC.
Furthermore, the court ordered Ayode to pay the sum of N103, 000.00 (One
Hundred and Three Thousand Naira) in restitution and forfeit three mobile
phones to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Ilori was ordered to restitute the sum of $700USD (Seven Hundred United
States Dollars), and forfeit one iPhone 12 Pro Max mobile phone and one
Toyota Camry 2008 Model saloon car to the Federal Government.
Furthermore, the court ordered Adebayo to forfeit to the Federal Government,
the sum of N6, 200,473.15k (Six Million, Two Hundred Thousand, Four Hundred
and Seventy Three Naira, Fifteen Kobo) domiciled in his GT Bank account,
one Toyota Camry 2004 car, one Toyota Venza 2009 model car and one iPhone
12 Pro Max mobile phone.
Taiwo was ordered to restitute the sum of $4,000USD (Four Thousand United
States Dollars) and N579, 110.14k (Five Hundred and Seventy Nine Thousand,
One Hundred and Ten Naira and Fourteen kobo), and also forfeit his iPhone
12 Pro Max and Nokia mobile phones, one Apple MacBook Pro and one Mercedes
Benz ML350 to the Federal Government.
Thw press release contains a photo of each 419er:
four-convicted-for-cyber-fraud-forfeits-cars-cash-in-oyo
********************************************
27 APR 2022
Court Sends Four Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
Four internet fraudsters, Omokhua Bright, Nosakhare Uyi, Endurance
Omonefe and Osasenaga Desmond were on Wednesday April 27, 2022,
convicted and sentenced to various jail terms by Justice Efe
Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City.
The quartet were arraigned separately by the Benin Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on one count charge
of impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
The charge against Uyi reads: "that you Nosakhare Uyi sometime in
February 2022 in Benin City within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court with intent to defraud falsely represented yourself as one Carey
Stephen Bernard (an American soldier) on the WeChat Platform and you
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal
Code law Cap 48, Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in
Edo State) 1976 and punishable under the same section".
The charge against Bright reads: "that you Omokhua Bright sometime
between year 2020 to 21st February 2022 in Benin City within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate
the identity of one Micole, an American on your Instagram account
with intent to defraud unsuspecting investors in bitcoin business
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 484 of the Criminal Code Cap 48, Laws of Bendel State of
Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State) 1976".
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges. In
view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Austin Ozigbu, K.Y.
Bello and I. K. Agwai prayed the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the duo of Uyi and
Desmond to three years imprisonment or a fine of N200, 000 and
N300, 000 respectively. Bright bagged five years imprisonment
or a fine of N300, 000, while Omonefe bagged two years imprisonment
or a fine of N150, 000.
The duo of Bright and Uyi are to forfeit their cars, Lexus 350
SVU and Mercedes Benz C300 to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
All the defendants are also to forfeit their phones to the Federal
Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good behavior.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-four-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin
******************************************
27 APR 2022
Nigerian Fraud Suspect Extradited to U.S. over Alleged $148,000 Scam
A wire fraud suspect, Adedunmola Gbadegesin was on Tuesday April 26, 2022,
extradited to the United States where he is wanted in a case of conspiracy
to commit wire fraud and money laundering. The offences contravene Title
18, US Code, Section 1349 and 1956 (h) and carries a maximum jail term
of 20 years.
His extradition was coordinated by the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, following a request from the office of the Attorney
General of the Federation, pursuant to a February 11, 2022 Order by Justice
D.E Osiagor of the Federal High Court, Lagos, in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/765/21,
which granted a request to extradite the suspect to the United States to
answer to criminal charges bordering on romance scam, wire fraud and
money laundering.
Gbadegesin who was arrested on September 2, 2021, is alleged to have
defrauded an America lady living in Kentucky, United States, of over
$148,000.
Upon arriving in the United States, the suspect is billed to appear before
a United States District Court for the District of New Mexico, where two
counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money l
aundering have been filed against him.
The press release includes a photo of the alleged 419er:
nigerian-fraud-suspect-extradited-to-u-s-over-alleged-148-000-scam
*******************************************
27 APR 2022
EFCC Arrests 30 Internet Fraud Suspects In Ado-Ekiti, Four in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 arrested thirty suspected internet fraudsters
in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The suspects, comprising of twenty-eight males and two females were arrested
at different locations in Ado-Ekiti based on credible intelligence obtained
by the Command.
They are Godspower Falodun, Omoniyi Pelumi, Victor Damilola, Akerele Olugbenga,
Oluwatosin Alade, Abayomi Aderinwa, Ologunsoro Ayodeji, Olakunle Bidemi, Emmanuel
Olukayode, Ojo Tobi, Ayeni Kayode, Ezekiel Ayomide, Tunde Lukman, Onikoyi Tobi,
Busayo Obadu, Abiodun Taofeek, Ajayi Opeyemi and Ebenezer Ayodeji.
Others are Akinola Paul, Jacob Wisdom, Akinrinmola Olumide, Lawrence Abimbola,
Tope Abejide, Busuyi Ajewole, Seyi Ajewole, Sunday Pelumi, Sunday Pelumi, Fapohunda
Paul and Aguh Henry, while Omowumi Victoria and Peace Beloved were the only females
amongst the suspects.
Items including six exotic cars worth millions of naira, forty-seven different
brands of phones and sixteen laptops were recovered from the suspects at the point
of arrest.
In a related development, operatives of the Command also arrested four persons
suspected to have been involved in similar offences over the weekend in Ilorin.
The Suspects: Oyewole Moruf Damilare, Abdul-salam Quzeem, Mohammed Bello and Olusanya
Idowu Lukman were arrested in Agric Estate, Sango area of Ilorin following a tip-off
on their alleged unwholesome activities.
Some of the items recovered from the suspects at the point of arrest included expensive
phones, different brands of laptops and a car.
The suspects will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the ongoing i
nvestigations.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-30-internet-fraud-suspects-in-ado-ekiti-four-in-ilorin
*************************************************
21 APR 2022
Court Convicts Serial Fraudster, Three Others for N5m Fraud in Maiduguri
The Maiduguri Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of the quartet of Allen Abel,
Jerry Shugaba, Ramat Bukar and Buba Hamidu y before Justice Umaru Fadawu of
the Borno State High Court, Maiduguri on separate charges bordering on
obtaining by false pretence, personation and cheating to the tune of Five
Million Three Hundred and Eighty Three Thousand Naira (N5.383, 000.00).
The charge against Abel reads: "That you, Allen Abel sometime in April, 2020
in Maiduguri Borno State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
fraudulently induced one Alhassan Sanusi to deliver to you 100 bags of sugar
at the cost of Sixteen Thousand Naira (N16,000.00) each in the gross value
of One Million Six Hundred Thousand Naira (N1,600,000.00) only under false
petence of executing a purported contract awarded by the Ministry of Humanitarian
Affairs Disaster Management and Social Development which fact you knew to be
false thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under sections
1(1) (b) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences
Act, 2006 respectively."
For Shugaba, the charge reads: "That you Jerry Shugaba sometime in June,
2019 in Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, dishonestly induced Daniel Madu to deliver to you the sum of
N2, 650 000.00 (Two Million Six Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) under
the guise of executing a contract for the supply of Dignity Kits purportedly
awarded to you by Norwegian Church Aid, a Non–Governmental Organisation with
No: MDG-107-03-202 and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
320 (a) and punishable under Section 322 of the Penal Code Cap 102 Laws
of Borno State."
One of the two counts brought against Ramat Bukar reads: "That you, Ramat
Bukar sometime in 2019 at Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, fraudulently induced one Ishaku Inuwa of Polo
Area Maiduguri, to deliver to you the total sum of N18,000.00 (Eighteen
Thousand Naira) only as payment for registration fees of 2019/2020 SSCE
(Senior School Certificate Examination ) in favour of his Sister Abugail
Waba which you failed to discharge your obligation and refused to refund
the entire sum delivered to you and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under sections 320 and 322 of the Penal Code Laws of
Borno State Cap.102 Vol. 3 of 1994 respectively."
Hamidu's lone count reads: "That you, Buba Hamidu sometime in February,
2021 or thereabout in Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court dishonestly induced one Zainab Lawan Gana to cause
the sum of Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N300,000.00) only to be delivered
to you in the guise of securing jobs for her siblings at the University
of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital thereby committed an offence contrary to
and punishable under Sections 320 and 322 of the Penal Code Laws of Borno
State respectively."
The defendants pleaded 'guilt'’ when the charges were read to them.
Counsel for the prosecution, Haruna Abdulkadir, prayed the court to
convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Umaru in his separate Judgment, sentenced Allen Abel to seven
years imprisonment for the offence of obtaining money by false pretence
without option of fine, and one year imprisonment with an option of fifty
thousand naira fine for personation.
The court ordered the convict to restitute the sum of N1.6m to his victim.
The court also sentenced Shugaba to one year imprisonment with an option
of One Hundred Thousand Naira fine. The defendant was ordered to pay his
victim the sum of Two Million Naira and in default, serve five years prison.
Bukar and Hamidu, bag one year with an option of Five Hundred Thousand Naira
fine each. They were ordered to restitute their victims by the Judge.
The press release includes photos:
ourt-convicted-a-serial-fraudster-abel-three-others-for-n5m-fraud-in-maiduguri
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18 APR 2022
Fake Brad Pitt, Three Others Bag Jail Term in Benin City
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court sitting in Benin
City on Thursday April 14, 2022, convicted and sentenced four internet
fraudsters to prison for fraud.
The convicts are Chigbolu Stephen Kanayo (aka Brad Pitt) Udoh Godspower
(aka Wang Wei); Orome Collins (aka Wang Wei) and Clifford Otsu (aka Wang
David).
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC for offences
bordering on intent to defraud and impersonation.
The defendants had sometime in October 2021 and February 2022 with
intent to defraud impersonated foreign nationals on their respective
social media platforms in the attempt to defraud them.
The charge against Kanayo reads: "that you Chigbolu Stephen Kanayo on
the 28th February, 2022 in Benin City ,Edo State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself
to be Brad Pitt Williams , a celebrity residing in California, USA, on
Instagram platform and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
484 and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48,
Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria ( as applicable in Edo state ) 1976".
The charge against Collins reads: "that you, Orome Collins on the 23rd
day of February 2022 in Benin City within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court knowingly had in your possession documents containing false pretense
to wit: fraudulent/scammed pictures found in your Email account: wangwie20@gmail.com
and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484
of the Criminal Code Law Cap 48, Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable
in Edo State) 1976"
Upon arraignment , the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, A.A. Ozigbu, to ask the court
to convict and sentence them accordingly.
However, Pascal Ugonne , the defence counsel prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy and to honour the plea bargain agreement between the
parties.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Kanayo and Udoh to two
years imprisonment with an option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
Otsu bagged three years imprisonment with an option of Four Hundred
Thousand Naira fine, while Collins bagged two years imprisonment with
an option of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira fine
Justice Ikponmwonba ordered that they forfeit their phones to the Federal
Government of Nigeria and to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour.
The ppress release includes photos:
fake-brad-pitt-three-others-bag-jail-term-in-benin-city
**********************************
14 APR 2022
EFCC Dock Two for N22m Fraud in Maiduguri
The Maiduguri Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, April 14, 2022 arraigned one Mohammed
Bukar (a.k.a Gausu) before Justice Aisha Kumaliya of the Borno State
High Court, Maiduguri on a one count charge of obtaining by false
pretence to the tune of N19,000,000.00 (Nineteen Million Naira only).
The defendant fraudulently collected the sum from Ba’ana Modu Buraye
for the execution of purported contract awarded to him by Norwegian
Refugee Council for the supply of water pumps.
The count reads: "That you Mohammed Bukar (Gausu) sometime in August,
2021 in Maiduguri Borno State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court fraudulently induced one Ba’ana Modu Buraye to cause the gross sum
of Nineteen Million Naira (N19, 000,000.00) only to be delivered to you
via MUB Guzamala Enterprises Bank account No. 0003811629 domiciled in
Jaiz Bank Plc. under false pretence that you were to use the said sum
for the execution of a purported contract awarded to you by Norwegian
Refugee Council, a Non-Governmental Organisation for the supply of water
pump which fact you knew to be false and thereby an offence contrary to
and punishable under sections 1(1) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud
and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2016."
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Counsel for the prosecution, Haruna Albulkadir, asked for a trial date
and the remand of the defendant in prison custody.
Justice Kumaliya ordered the remand of the defendant in prison custody
and adjourned till May 19, 2022.
In a related development, one Adamu Ibrahim was arraigned before Justice
Aisha Kumaliya of the Borno State High Court on a one count charge of
obtaining by false pretence to the tune of N3,000,000.00 (Three Million
Naira only)
The count reads: "That you, Adamu Ibrahim sometime in March 2020 at
Maiduguri, Borno State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
with intent to defraud obtained the sum of N3,000,000.00 (Three Million
Naira) from Abubakar Bashir under the false pretence that the said amount
represent payment for the purchase of a purported plot of land measuring
50ft by 100ft laying and situated at Shuwari II, behind Innobative Secondary
School, Konduga Local Government Area, Borno State which you knew to be
false and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 1(1) of the
Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2016 and punishable
under section 1(3) of the same Act."
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the one count charge.
Counsel for the prosecution, Haruna Abdulkadir applied for a trial date
and prayed the defendant be remand the defendant in prison custody.
Justice Kumaliya ordered the remand of the defendant in prison custody
and adjourned till May 16, 2022.
[419 Coalition has redacted the remainder of the article as it
deals with a non-419 related crime]
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-dock-two-for-n22m-fraud-in-maiduguri
*************************************
14 APR 2022
EFCC Arrests Seven Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, April 14, 2022, arrested seven suspected
internet fraudsters.
The suspects are: Sulaiman Ademola, Okechukwu Ndubuisi Prince, Sunday
Carson Kingsley, Ikpeh Godwin Igojuju, Shile Temiloluwa Abiodun, Agboh
Daniel and Nice Tom Eweh.
They were arrested at No. 1 Gideon Obhakhan Close, Therra Annex,
Sangotedo, Lagos, following credible intelligence received by the
Commission on the illegal activities of some individuals allegedly
involved in computer fraud.
Upon their arrest, two exotic vehicles, laptop computers and mobile
devices were recovered from them.
The suspects will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
The press release contains a group photo:
efcc-arrests-seven-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
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13 APR 2022
Court Sends Two Managing Directors,
Four Others to Prison for Cybercrime
The duo of Ibrahim Babangida Haruna and Christopher Robert,
managing director of Damaste Royal Engineering Services Nigeria
Limited and Locus Classicus Trade & Investment Limited respectively
were on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 convicted and sentenced to five
years imprisonment each by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo
State High Court sitting in Benin City.
The duo were arraigned on separate one count charges of fraud
by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission. The defendants, as managing director and signatory
to the Zenith bank accounts of Demaste Royal Engineering Services
Limited and Locus Classicus Trade and Investment Limited, retained
the aggregate sum of N657,350, 000.00 and N51,820,000.00 respectively;
proceeds of Efe Martins Oserenwindamwens criminal conduct.
The charge against Ibrahim Babangida Haruna reads: "that you Ibrahim
Babangida Haruna being the managing director and signatory to the
Zenith Bank account of Demaste Royal Engineering Services Limited
sometimes between 2nd April to 25th May, 2020 in Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did retain the aggregate
sum of N 657,350,000.00 (Six Hundred and Fifty-seven Million, Three
Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) knowing that same represent proceeds
of Efe Martins Osarenwindamwen's criminal conduct to wit: cybercrime
and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 17(a) of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment ) Act 2004
and punishable under section 17(6) of same Act".
The charge against Christopher Robert reads: "that you Christopher
Robert being the managing director and signatory to Zenith Bank
account of Locus Classicus Trade and Investment limited sometime
between 4th and 5th day of June, 2020 in Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did retain the aggregate
sum of N51,820,000.00(Fifty One Million, Eight Hundred and Twenty
Thousand Naira) knowing that same represent proceed of Efe Martins
Osarewindamwen's criminal conduct to wit: Cybercrime and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 17(a) of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment ) Act 2004 and punishable
under section 17(b) of the same Act."
Haruna and Robert pleaded guilty to the charge preferred against them
by the EFCC prompting the prosecution counsel, Francis, A. Jirbo to
pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Haruna and Robert to five
years imprisonment with an option of Five Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
The defendants are to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour
henceforth.
In the same vein, four internet fraudsters, Iyamu Christian Iyayi,
Destiny Etsu, Omosieve Greater and Ehiguese Odiase were convicted
and sentenced to prison by Justice Ikponmwonba for personation and
obtaining by false pretence.
Etsu and Iyayi bagged three years imprisonment or a fine of N300,000
while the duo of Greater and Odiase bagged two years imprisonment
or a fine of N200,000 and N150,000 respectively.
The quartet are to forfeit their phones to the Federal Government of
Nigeria and to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The press release contains small photos of all six 419ers:
n708m-scam-court-sends-two-managing-directors-four-others-to-prison-for-cybercrime
******************************************
12 APR 2022
Undergraduate Convicted for Cybercrime in Ibadan
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of one Ogunleye Olawale Sylvester to six months
community service before Justice Ladiran Akintola of the State
High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State for internet fraud.
The convict who is a second year student of Olabisi Onabanjo
University, Ago Iwoye, was amongst those suspects arrested by
officers of the Nigerian Army and handed over the EFCC for
prosecution.
The convict pleaded guilty to one count charge.
The count reads: "That you Ogunleye Olawale Sylvester on or about
11th November 2021, at Ibadan within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, with intent to defraud, impersonate David Miguel a white man
from United States of America."
Upon his plea, the prosecution counsel, Sanusi Galadanchi reviewed
the facts of the case and tendered indicting documents as evidence.
He thereafter urged the court to convict and sentence the defendant
as charged.
Consequently, Justice Akintola convicted and sentenced Ogunleye to six
months community service and ordered that he restitute the sum of $550USD
(Five Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars), and forfeit one Tecno
Spark 3 mobile phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
undergraduate-convicted-for-cybercrime-in-ibadan
******************************************
11 APR 2022
EFCC Presents First Witness Against Suspect In Alleged €211,000 Fraud
The trial of one Ifekwu Dominic continued before Justice S.O. Solebo
of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on April 11, 2022,
with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, presenting
its first witness against him.
Dominic is being prosecuted by the Lagos Zonal Command of the EFCC
on a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy to obtain money by
false pretence, obtaining by false pretence, and possession of documents
containing false pretence.
One of the counts reads: "Ifekwu Chukwuma Dominic, aka John Alfred, and
Okechukwu, aka Connie Miller (at large), between 2014 and 2017, within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud obtained
the aggregate sum of 211,000 Euros from Imelda Dorflinger under the false
representation that you Ifekwe Chukwuma Dominic had inherited gold from
your father and needed the said money to pay taxes in order to enable you
to have access to the gold, a representation you knew to be false."
Another count reads: "Ifekwu Chukwuma Dominic (aka John Alfred), on or
about 22nd June 2016 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, and
with intent to defraud, had in your possession document titled "Cashier Cheque",
where you falsely represented to Imelda Dorflinger that you have been issued
a cheque valued at $590,000.00 and which document you knew contained false
information."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges prompting the commencement of his
trial.
At today's proceedings, the witness, Mma Adamu Alhaji, an operative of the
EFCC, who was led in evidence by the prosecuting counsel, I.O. Daramola, told
the Court that the EFCC received a petition against the defendant sometime
in September 2021 in which the defendant was accused to have defrauded his
victim, Imelda Dorflinger, a German national, by posing as one John Alfred,
with whom she developed an online friendship.
One Connie Miller, who was actually one Okechukwu currently at large, had
linked Dorflinger to Alfred, who is actually Dominic.
He said: "When they became friends, the defendant started coming up with
request for money."
"In July 2015, they had an agreement to meet in Lome, Togo, and they
eventually met there."
"Upon their meeting, the defendant presented some documents to her, including
gold export certificate, financial deposits in Bank of Africa, Ghana, and some
other documents."
According to the witness, the defendant deceived his victim into believing
that he was "a Crown Prince", in Ghana, who had a Gold inheritance that he
needed money to secure, which he inherited from his father worth 250 kilogrammes.
He added that the defendant had told his victim that the gold was in the bank,
and that he needed money to pay tax and other things to receive it.
He said: "Based on the presentation of the documents, she believed the defendant
and started sending him money through Moneygram."
"In December 2015, they still met again in Togo, and the defendant still promised
her that after he finishes clearing the gold, he would pay her back."
"She kept on sending money until sometime in 2017."
"But as there was no regarding the clearing of the gold, then, she met a
Nigerian and made an enquiry."
The witness explained that following her conversation with the Nigerian,
it dawned on her that she had been defrauded by the defendant, and that
Dominic was no Ghanaian Crown Prince, but a Nigerian.
He said: "From there, she discovered that she had been defrauded, and stopped
all communications with him."
However, after a long while, the witness said the defendant again tried
to reconnect with his victim and sent her an email again to greet her.
He said: "She responded, and the defendant again started bringing up the
issue of gold, that the gold is still there, and that he needed more money
to clear it."
"From there, she played along and made plans to get him arrested. She
agreed to meet him again, with a promise to bring more cash for him."
"Subsequently, the defendant was arrested and handed over to the EFCC
for further investigation."
He told the Court that upon interrogation, the defendant admitted the
allegations against him in his statement volunteered to the EFCC.
"The defendant admitted that the allegations are nothing but the truth,"
he said.
Thereafter, the prosecution sought to tender the said petition to the EFCC
and the statements of the defendant made to the EFCC.
The defence counsel, Bartholomew Agnegbodo, raised no objections to the
admissibility of the petition, but objected to the admissibility of the
statements, arguing that "there were certain promises made prompting
the statements being made".
Justice Solebo, thereafter, admitted the petition in evidence as Exhibit
A, and adjourned till April 12, 2022 for trial-within-trial to prove the
voluntariness or otherwise of the statements being sought to be tendered.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-presents-first-witness-against-suspect-in-alleged-211-000-fraud
******************************************
11 APR 2022
Abuja Court Convicts Fraudster
Justice Y. Halilu of the FCT High Court, Maitama, on Monday, April
11, 2022 convicted and sentenced one Izoduwa Osemwegie, to two months
in prison for internet related fraud. The 20-year-old student pleaded
guilty to one count criminal charge preferred against him by the Abuja
Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one count charge reads, "that you Izoduwa Osemwegie sometime in
2021 at Abuja, within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal
Capital Territory cheat by personation when you created an Instagram
account with the account name Steven McLean posing as a legitimate
trader from Canada, and under the assumed character obtained the sum
of €150 (One Hundred and Fifty Euros) from Huseyin, a Briton and €400
(Four Hundred Euros) from Jonathan, a Turkish citizen under the pretext
that you are a legitimate Bitcoin trader, a fact you knew to be false
and thereby committed an offense contrary to Section 321 of the Penal
Code Law (Cap. 89 Laws of Northern Nigeria) and punishable under
Section 324 of the same Law". He pleaded guilty to the charge preferred
against him.
In view of his guilty plea, Prosecution Counsel Nguper Martha Tertsua
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Halilu sentenced Osemwegie to 2 months in prison with an option
of N500, 000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. All proceeds of the
crime are also to be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
buja-court-convicts-fraudster
***************************************
9 APR 2022
EFCC Arrests 5 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Makurdi
The operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Saturday, April 9,
2022, arrested five (5) suspected internet fraudsters in
Makurdi, Benue State.
The suspects who are alleged to be involved in internet-related
fraud are; Enekwache Bright, Amih Dominic, Achir David, David
Atese and Anongo Angela.
They were arrested in Makurdi based on some verified intelligence
on their alleged criminal activities.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones and several
incriminating documents.
The suspects will be charged to Court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-5-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
********************************************
8 APR 2022
EFCC Charges Youths Against Cyber Crimes
The Uyo Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE Bawa Hamidu has charged youths
across the country to fully get involved in the fight against corruption
by shunning cybercrimes and all other criminal activities.
Bawa gave the charge on Thursday April 7, 2022 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
while holding a sensitization session with an Anti-Corruption youth group
at the University of Uyo, Uniuyo, Community Hall.
Addressing the youths, Bawa, who spoke through the Head, Public Affairs
Directorate of the Command, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Theresa
Nwosu, urged them to desist from all forms of cybercrimes and cultivate
the habit of reporting perpetrators of such crimes and any other perceived
criminal activity, observed around them, to the EFCC.
"Nigerian youths have great potentials but are failing to see the dark
shadow that being an ex-convict casts on their future. Cybercrimes are
destructive because they are capable of building barriers against the
future of youths. Within a week alone, a court in Calabar convicted over
30 youths for cyber-related offences. This is not good enough. It is
high time our youths stayed away from internet fraud", she said.
The Zonal Commander identified greed and get-rich-quick syndrome as the
major causes of youth involvement in cybercrimes. He warned members of
the group to desist from such tendencies. He also tasked them on the
need to always report suspected cases of internet fraud around them.
"I believe that you’re a member of this Anti-Corruption group because
you truly abhor crime and corruption, and you desire to put a stop to
the trend. If that’s truly the case, then you must understand that when
you see something criminal or corrupt, you are duty bound to say something
so that we can all do something by fighting this hydra-headed monster
to a logical standstill", she said.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-charges-youths-against-cyber-crimes
*************************************
8 APR 2022
Court Jails Six Internet Fraudsters in Calabar
Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court sitting Calabar, Cross
River state has convicted and sentenced six internet fraudsters, for their
involvement in various internet-related offences.
The convicts are: Ezenwadike Kingsley, Ugwuoke Keneth, Gabriel Ewa Jonah,
Emmanuel Chukwunonso, Ettano Blessing and Obidiche Michael Ifeanyi.
They were jailed on Thursday, April 7, 2022 based on their "guilty" pleas
to one-count separate charge preferred against them by the Uyo Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
One of the charge reads: "That you, Ettano Blessing, sometime in 2022 in
Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to
obtain property and gain advantage for yourself, fraudulently presented
yourself as Dylan Espana and V Musa Wenkosi, an American Bitcoin manager,
to your victims on Facebook and Instagram and obtained the sum of Seven
Hundred Dollars ($700) from one Luzuko Mguda and Five Hundred Thousand Naira
(N500,000.00) from your victims and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and (ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention,
etc) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (b) (iv) of the same Act".
Based on their pleas, prosecution counsel, Joshua Abolarin, prayed the
court to convict them accordingly.
Delivering judgment, Justice Ojukwu convicted and sentenced the defendants
as follows:
Jonah and Kingsley were sentenced to six months imprisonment each, with
an option of fine of N700, 000.00 (Seven Hundred Thousand Naira only) each
while Kenneth was given six months imprisonment with an option of fine of
N800, 000.00(Eight Hundred Thousand Naira only).
Chukwunonso bagged six months imprisonment with an option of fine of N600,000.00
( Six Hundred Thousand Naira only) while Blessing and Ifeanyi were sentenced to
one year imprisonment each, with options to pay fines of N500,000.00 ( Five
Hundred Thousand only) and N800,000.00( Eight Hundred Thousand Naira only)
respectively.
The court ordered the convicts to sign undertakings of good behaviour and
forfeit gadgets used in committing the crimes to the Federal government.
In a related development, the same Thursday, the EFCC arraigned Enyinnaya
Donald Chidiebere before Justice Ojukwu on one -count charge bordering on
impersonation.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, Abolarin immediately prayed the court to fix a date
for trial and remand the defendant at the Calabar Correctional Centre.
However, defence counsel, Udo Ukeme Johnson prayed for a short adjournment
to enable him make a formal bail application.
Justice Ojukwu adjourned the matter till May 11, 2022 for hearing of bail
application and remanded the defendant in the Calabar Correctional Centre.
Troubles came for the convicts and Chidiebere, when they were arrested by
operatives of the Uyo Command of the EFCC on March 31, 2022 in a sting
operation within Calabar, Cross River State. They were arrested in connection
with their internet-related criminal activities.
court-jails-six-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar
*********************************************
8 APR 2022
Man Bags Jail Term for Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Thursday, April 7, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of one Ernest James before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the Special
Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos for an offence bordering on
retention of proceeds of criminal act, to wit internet fraud.
He was arraigned on a one-count amended charge in which he was accused
of engaging in dating scam to enrich himself.
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
Following his guilty plea, the prosecuting counsel, Ahmed Yerima, gave
a review of the facts of the case.
He told the Court that the defendant was arrested on September 15, 2021
in the Ajah area of Lagos State, following creditable intelligence received
by the Commission.
"He was, upon arrest, taken to the ICT forensic laboratory of the Commission,
where his devices were analysed and documents containing fraudulent conversation
were printed out," he said.
Yerima told the Court that the defendant also volunteered his statement,
admitting to the allegation against him, and confessing to defrauding an
American based in California of N2 million.
The prosecution tendered in evidence his statement, and the fraudulent
documents printed out from his device.
Yerima thus urged the Court to convict the defendant as charged and to order
the forfeiture of the iPhone 12 Pro Max, N501, 720 in his FCMB account and
N200,000 his Heritage Bank account to the Federal Government.
The defence counsel, A.O. Afuye, pleaded with the court to temper justice
with mercy.
Thereafter, Justice Taiwo pronounced him guilty as charged and sentenced
him to six months in prison, with an option of fine of N200,000.
The Court also granted the forfeiture prayer of the prosecution.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-bags-jail-term-for-internet-fraud-in-lagos
**********************************************
7 APR 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Term, Forfeit Car to FG
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday April 7, 2022, secured the conviction of two internet
fraudsters, Ajiboye Ernest Alade and Mike Ederihbhalo on one count charge
of fraud.
Alade was arraigned before Justice S.M. Shuaibu of the Federal High
Court, Benin City while Mike Ederihbhalo was arraigned before Justice
Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court, Benin City.
Alade was accused of being in possession of fraudulent/scammed pictures
containing false pretense, an offence contrary to Section 6 of the Advance
Fee Fraud and Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3)
of the same Act.
On his part, Ederihbhalo impersonated the identity of Heike Hartmann, an
American citizen with intent to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The charge against Alade reads: that you Ajiboye Ernest Alade on the 22nd
day of February, 2021 at Edo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did knowingly had in your possession documents containing false pretense
to wit: fraudulent/ scammed pictures found in your email account kokeyepes78690 @gmail.com.
contrary to section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act,
2006 and punishable under section 1(3) of the same Act.
Upon arraignment, Alade pleaded guilty to the charge preferred against him
by the EFCC prompting the prosecution counsel, A.A.Ozigbu, to pray the court
to convict and sentence him accordingly. However, B.E. Ambrose prayed the
court to temper justice with mercy as the defendant has become remorseful.
Justice Shuaibu convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years imprisonment
with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira as fine.
The judge also ruled that his laptop and phones being proceeds of crime be
forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
On his part, Ederihbnalo upon his arraignment pleaded guilty to the charge,
prompting EFCC counsel, K.Y Bello, to pray the court to convict and sentence
him accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Ederihbhalo to three years
imprisonment or a fine of N200,000. Ederihbnalo is also to forfeit his Lexus
RX350 SUV and phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-term-forfeit-car-to-fg
***********************************************
7 APR 2022
Kwara Courts Send Auto Repairer, Two Others to Prison for Cybercrime
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Thursday, April 7, 2022 secured the conviction of three persons
charged before Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court and Justice
Mahmood Abdulgafar of the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin for
offences bordering on cybercrime.
The Convicts are Umar Abdulrazaq Olanrewaju alias "Sugar Baby" from Tanke
in Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State; Hassan Abdullahi
Olaitan, auto repairer from Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara
State and one Tope Ayodele.
While Umar and Abdullahi were prosecuted before Justice Sani of the
Federal High Court, Tope had his day in court before Justice Mahmud
Abdulgafar of the State High Court, Ilorin.
The defendants, who were arraigned on separate charges pleaded guilty to
their respective charge.
Following their guilty pleas, Sesan Ola and Andrew Akoja who prosecuted
the cases on behalf of the Commission reviewed the facts of the cases and
tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants, phones recovered
from them at the point of arrest and several fraudulent messages printed
from their device, which were admitted in evidence
In their separate judgments on the cases, Justice Sani and Abdulgafar who
agreed with the submission of the prosecuting counsel that the Commission
had proved the case against the defendants, pronounced them guilty.
Justice Sani sentenced Umar to six months imprisonment with option of
fine of N100, 000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). The judge ordered
that the convict should forfeit one iPhone 7 plus, which was recovered
from him at the point of arrest.
The judge also sentenced Hassan to six months imprisonment with option
of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). He also ordered
the convict to forfeit one iPhone 7 which he used to perpetrate the crime
and the sum of $200 (Two Hundred US Dollars) he benefited from his unlawful
activities to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Justice Abdulgafar handed Tope a three months suspended
sentence. The Judge ordered that one itel phone which the convict used to
perpetrate the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a small photo of each 419er:
kwara-courts-send-auto-repairer-two-others-to-prison-for-cybercrime
********************************************
7 APR 2022
Court Jails One For Internet Fraud in Kaduna
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court sitting in Kaduna,
has convicted and sentenced Prosper Joseph to one year imprisonment
for obtaining money by false pretences.
Joseph was jailed on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 after pleading guilty
to one- count amended charge, upon being arraigned by the Kaduna Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one -count amended charge read: "That you Prosper Joseph sometime
in February 2021, in Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did commit an offence to wit; cheating by impersonation wherein
you represented yourself to be one Chase Rice, a musician from United
States of America to one Leenchen and fraudulently induced her to buy
"iTunes cards" for you worth €15(fifteen euros) and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 308 of the Kaduna State Penal Code, Law,
2017 and punishable under Section 309 of the same Law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the one -count amended charge when it
was read to him.
Justice Khobo, thereafter convicted and sentenced the defendant to
one year imprisonment without an option of fine.
The convict also forfeits the sum of €15(Fifteen Euros) and one Itel
A6 phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Prosper's journey to the Correctional Centre started, when he was
arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC on
internet- related offences. Fraudulent documents were found on his
mobile through which he impersonated three foreigners: Chase Rice,
Theory James and Constant Nuel.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-one-for-internet-fraud-n-kaduna
**************************************
7 APR 2022
Court Jails 15 Internet Fraudsters In Calabar
Justice Rosemary Dugbo Oghoghorie and Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal
High Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State have convicted and
sentenced fifteen( 15) Internet fraudsters to one year imprisonment
each, for their involvement in various internet- related offences.
While Justice Oghoghorie jailed six of the fraudsters: Okon Samuel
Edet, Clinton Joseph Iheamibe, Emmanuel Joseph Effiom, Oguamalam
Francis, Emejuo Daniel Daniel and Anieto Paul Ekene, Justice Ojukwu
jailed the nine others: Njoku Jeffrey Kelechi, Godson Maduabuchi,
Ubong Innocent Francis, Unyung Precious Ime, Edem Wisdom Wilson,
Odo Peter, Iniobong John, Igbokwe Clinton Nkemjika and Daniel
Peter Bessong.
They were arraigned by the Uyo Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday April 6, 2022 on one count
separate charge bordering on criminal impersonation with intent to
defraud.
One of the charge read: "That you, Okon Samuel Edet, sometime in 2022
in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent
to obtain property and gain advantage for yourself, fraudulently presented
yourself as Bryan James, an American, to your victims on Facebook and
Hangout and obtained the sum of Five Hundred Dollars ($500) from one
Jessica Sanchez and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
22 (2) (b) (i) and (ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention etc)
Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (b) (iv) of the same Act".
The defendants pleaded ‘guilty’ to the charge when it was read to them.
Based on their pleas, prosecution counsel, Joshua Abolarin, prayed
the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
With no objection from the defence, Justice Oghoghorie convicted six
of the defendants and sentenced them as follows:
Francis, Effiom and Ekene were sentenced to one year imprisonment each,
with an option of a fine of N200,000.00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira only)
each, while Daniel and Edet bagged one year imprisonment each with an option
of fine of N350,000.00 ( Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira only) each.
Iheamibe was also sentenced to one year imprisonment but with an option of
fine of N250,000.00( Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira only).
In a related development, Justice Ojukwu convicted and sentenced nine
other fraudsters to one year imprisonment each but with various options
of fine. John was given an option of fine of N500,000.00( Five Hundred
Thousand Naira only, Nkemjika an option of fine of N600,000( Six Hundred
Thousand Naira only), Kelechi, Maduabuchi, Francis, Ime, Wilson, Peter
and Bessong each got option of fine of N800,000( Eight Hundred Thousand
Naira only).
The court further ordered the convicts to forfeit the phones they used
in committing the crimes to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The convicts' got into trouble and began their journey to the Correctional
Centre when they were arrested by operatives of the Uyo Command of the EFCC
on Thursday, March 31, 2022, at different locations within Akwa Ibom and
Cross River States, based on some verified intelligence on their nefarious
activities within the region.
The press release contains small photos of all 15 419ers:
court-jails-15-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar
************************************
7 APR 2022
Court Jails Six for Cyber-fraud in Enugu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Enugu Command
on Wednesday April 6, 2022, secured the conviction of six internet
fraudsters before Justice I.M Buba of the Federal High Court sitting
in Enugu on various charges bordering on impersonation and
obtaining money under false pretences from unsuspecting foreign
nationals.
The convicts are: Ogenyi Frederick Ebuka, Igwe Kelechi, Noble Nwodo,
Ebi Chibuike Victor, Kalu Eze Kalu and Eze Obinna Allan.
The charge against Kalu Eze Kalu reads, "That you KALU EZE KALU
sometime in March 2022 in Enugu within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court impersonated by presenting yourself as KIM JUYOUNG,
a citizen of South Korea, to unsuspecting persons on your KakaoTalk
Account, with intent to obtain money by false pretence and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Sections 22(3) (a)(b) and punishable
under Section s 22(4) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention
Etc) Act 2015".
All six defendants pleaded guilty when the charges were read to them.
Justice Buba sentenced them to one year imprisonment each, with an
option of fine of N1, 000,000 (One Million Naira). They are to also
forfeit their phones which will be sold by the EFCC and the proceeds
paid into the Federal Government’s Consolidated Account.
Igwe Kelechi is also to restitute the sum of $50 to his victim
through the EFCC.
The press release contains small photos of all six 419ers:
court-jails-six-fir-cyber-fraud-in-enugu
**************************************
7 APR 2022
EFCC’s Ibadan Command Secures Eight Convictions of Cybercriminals
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 secured the conviction and sentencing
of eight (8) internet fraudsters.
The convicts are Adebisi Jamiu Ademola, Koleosho Eniola Michael, Timilehin
Tobiloba Fajutu, Gbolahan Olonrewaju, Michael Timileyin Aiyeobasa, Olalekan
Akinkunmi Faith, Ojubanire Akindimeji Quadri, and Samuel Adegoke Timileyin.
They all pleaded "guilty" to the one count charge each made against them
by the anti-graft agency before Justices Uche Agomoh of the Federal High
Court, Ibadan in Oyo State; Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal High,
Osogbo, Osun State; Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abeokuta,
Ogun State, and Bayo Taiwo of the State High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Upon their pleas, Justice Agomoh convicted and sentenced Ojubanire to one
year imprisonment. Justice Nathaniel convicted and sentenced Adebisi to
thirty (30) days community service while Justice Abdulmalik convicted and
sentenced Fajutu to one year imprisonment, Samuel to nine months jail term
and Koleosho to six months imprisonment.
Furthermore, Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced Gbolahan and Aiyeobasa
to eight (8) months community service each and Olalekan to six months community
service.
The convicts were ordered to restitute their victims and forfeit all items
recovered from them to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains small photos of 7 of the 8 419ers:
efcc-s-ibadan-command-secures-eight-convictions-of-cybercriminals
**********************************
7 APR 2022
Internet Fraudster Jailed One Year in Kaduna
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday April 6, 2022 secured the conviction and sentencing of
one Morris Moses before Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court
11, for cheating by impersonation.
Morris who was arrested in a sting operation in Kaduna, was discovered to
have assumed the identity of Tucka James on his Facebook account and used
same to establish a romantic relationship and defraud an American citizen.
The charge reads: "That you Morris Moses (aka Tucka James) on or about the
9th of March, 2022 at Narayi Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, impersonated one Tucka James on Facebook when you made an admission to
one Dinna Gaay that you were in love with her and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017
and punishable under the same Law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Justice Khobo, thereafter convicted and sentenced the defendant to one year
imprisonment without option of fine. He is also to forfeit one Infinix Hot 8
phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release containa a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-jailed-one-year-in-kaduna
*********************************************
6 APR 2022
EFCC Docks Ex-Legislative Aide for N6.5m Fraud,
Three Others Convicted of Cybercrime in Kwara
[419 Coalition has redacted the non-419 related
portions of the article]
In another development, The Commission also secured the conviction of
three persons charged before the Federal High Court and Kwara State High
Court in Ilorin for offences bordering on cybercrime.
The convicts: Abdulrahman Abdulmateen, a barber from Omun-Aran in Irepodun
Local Government Area of Kwara State and Oyeniyi Bukola Peter from Ila Local
Government Area of Osun State and one Abdulazeez Mubarak from Mushin Area
of Lagos State.
While Abdulrahman and Oyeniyi were prosecuted before Justice Muhammed Sani
of the Federal High Court, Abdulazeez was tried before Justice Adenike Akinpelu
of the State High Court both in Ilorin.
The defendants, who were prosecuted on separate charges pleaded guilty to
their respective charge.
Following their pleas, Innocent Mbachie and Sesan Ola who represented the
Commission in the three cases urged the court to consider the plea of guilt,
the extra-judicial statements of the defendants, and other exhibits tendered
and hold that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
They prayed the court to convict them as charged.
Justice Sani sentenced Abdulrahman to six months imprisonment with option
of fine N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). The judge ordered that
one apple iPhone x recovered from the convict at the point of arrest be
forfeited to the Federal Government. The court also ordered the restitution
of the sum of $50 (Fifty US Dollars) which is proceed of the unlawful
activities by the convict.
In the same vein, Justice Sani sentenced Oyeniyi to six months imprisonment
with option of fine N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only). The court
ordered that one iPhone x plus, Dell laptop and Lexus 300 car procured with
the proceeds of unlawful activities by the convict be forfeited to the Federal
Government.
For Abdulazeez, Justice Akinpelu pronounced a prison term of six months
with option of fine N150,000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only).
The convict would also forfeit one iphone 12 promax, which he used to perpetrate
the crime and one 2008 Toyota Corolla Car which he bought with the proceeds of
crime to the Federal Government.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-docks-ex-legislative-aide-for-n6-5m-fraud-three-others-convicted-of-cybercrime-in-kwara"
***************************************************************
6 APR 2022
Court Sends Three Internet Fraudsters to Jail,
Orders Forfeiture of Their Cars to FG
Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday April 6, 2022, secured the conviction of three
internet fraudsters, Ebuehi Gift, Joseph Etim Peters and Evans Osayuware
Ovie on one count charge of intent to fraudulent impersonate and intent
to defraud before Justice Efe Ikpomwonba of Edo State High Court,
Benin City, Edo State.
The trio fraudulently represented themselves as foreign nationals in
order to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Joseph Etim Peter (aka Mogarn Ben) reads: "That
you, Joseph Etim Peter between January to December 2022 in Benin City,
Edo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
fraudulently impersonate the identity of one Bernard J, an American
Soldier with intent to defraud unsuspecting ladies in China and thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 484 of
the Criminal Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable
in Edo State) 1976".
The charge against Ebuehi Gift reads: "That you, Ebuehi Gift (M) sometime
in January to September 2021 in Benin City within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate the identity of one
Racheal Morgan, an American lady with intent to defraud unsuspecting
investors in Bitcoin business and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under section 484 of the criminal code cap 48 Laws of
Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo state)".
Upon arraignment, all the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of their plea, prosecuting counsel, Austin Ozigbu prayed the
court to convict and sentence them accordingly but the defence counsel,
Otasowie Chris asked the court to temper justice with mercy as the
defendants have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikpomwonba convicted and sentenced Gift to five years imprisonment
or a fine of N500, 000. While Ovie and Peter bagged three years imprisonment
or a fine of N300, 000 and N200, 000 respectively.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of a Toyota Camry and a Mercedes
Benz GLK vehicles recovered from Gift and Ovie to the Federal Government
of Nigeria. They are also to forfeit their phones to the Federal Government
of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The press release contains a small photo of each 419er:
court-sends-three-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-orders-forfeiture-of-their-cars-to-fg
****************************************************
5 APR 2022
Court Jails Two for Impersonation In Kaduna
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court, sitting in
Kaduna has convicted and sentenced George Ahmadu( alias Don Johnson)
and Joshua. B. Amos( alias Eric Church) to one year imprisonment
each for impersonation.
They were jailed on Monday, April 4, 2022, based on their "guilty"
pleas to one- count amended charge bordering on impersonation, upon
their arraignment by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge reads: "That you George Ahmadu (a.k.a Don Johnson) 'M'
sometime in February, 2022 in Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, Impersonated one Don Johnson on Hangout when you
made an admission to one Leenchen that you were in love with her
and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 142 of the
Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017 and punishable under the same Law".
Upon their guilty pleas, prosecution counsels: M.E Eimonye and defence
counsel, E.E Ogah prayed the court to convict them accordingly.
Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced Ahmadu and Amos to one year
imprisonment each, without an option of fine.
He also ordered them to forfeit one Techno KB7 and IPhone XR phones
to the Federal Government.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when they
were arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC
in connection with suspected involvement in internet fraud
Investigations showed that Ahmadu and Amos assumed the identities
of United States of American actor and musician: Don Johnson and
Eric Church to defraud local and international victims.
The press release contains photos of each 419er:
court-jails-two-for-impersonation-in-kaduna
*************************************************
5 APR 2022
Court Jails 10 Internet Fraudsters in Calabar
Justice Rosemary Dugbo Oghoghorie of the Federal High Court sitting
in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced ten ( 10) internet
fraudsters to one year imprisonment each.
The convicts were arraigned by the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on one-count separate charge
bordering on impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
The all-male convicts, whose ages range between 19 and 33, are:
Jordan Chisom Ozuma; Onyekere Emmanuel Chigoziem; Simon Moses Isong;
Itodo Benjamin Ofoma; Kelechi Victor Chinaka; Osunkwo Temple Amaechi;
Nnoli Francis Chukwuemeka; Kenneth Chimaobi Chibuike, Stanley Chukwuemeka
and Ifeanyi Charles Ejimadu.
One of the charge read: "That you, Kelechi Victor Chinaka, sometime
in February, 2022 in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did take possession of the sum of $300 (Three Hundred US Dollars
only) which you reasonably ought to have known forms proceed of an
unlawful act to wit: cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011
(as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act".
They all pleaded 'guilty' to the charge when read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, Joshua Abolarin prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
Justice convicted and sentenced the defendants as follows:
Ofoma, Chukwuemeka Isong were sentenced to one year imprisonment with
an option of fine of N200,000.00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira only) each
while Ozuma, Chigoziem and Ejimadu bagged one year imprisonment each
with an option of fine of N500,000.00( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) each.
Chibuike and Nnoli both bagged one year imprisonment each with an
option of fine of N350,000. 00 ( Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira only) and N250,000.00 ( Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira
only) respectively, while Amechi was sentenced to one year imprisonment
with an option of fine of N400,000.00 ( Four Hundred Thousand Naira
only) and Chinaka one year imprisonment with an option of fine of
N300,000.00( Three Hundred Thousand Naira only)
The court further ordered the convicts to forfeit all gadgets used
in committing the crimes to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre began when they
were arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC,
at different locations within Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.
Further investigations were conducted on their involvement in
internet fraud and were later prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains a group photo of all 10 419ers:
court-jails-10-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar
*********************************************
5 APR 2022
Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters in Port Harcourt
Justices S. I. Mark and P. M. Ayuba of the Federal High Court
sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have convicted and
sentenced two internet fraudsters: Okoro Uchechukwu and Emeka
Paul Ezenwadi to two years imprisonment each for internet-
related fraud.
They were jailed on Monday, April 4, 2022 after pleading
"guilty" to one-count separate charge bordering on impersonation,
upon being arraigned by the Port Harcourt's Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The one- count charge read:
"That you Okoro Uchechukwu, sometimes in August, 2021, within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently impersonated
one Emma Nina Pereira, a female student of the United States of
America Army School via your Google account with email address:
yudithnia87@gmail.com with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b)
(i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015
and punishable under Section 22 (2) of the same Act".
In view of their pleas of "guilty", prosecution counsels: I. Agu
and C. O. Oni prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly.
Defense counsels: F. A. Bigha and B. J. Geoffrey prayed the court
to temper justice with mercy in sentencing the defendants, stressing
that, "they are first -time offenders, with no previous criminal
records".
Justice Ayuba convicted and sentenced Ezenwadi to two years imprisonment,
with an option of fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100, 000.00) payable
into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federation.
Also, Justice Mark convicted and sentenced Uchechukwu to two years
imprisonment, with an option of fine of Three Hundred Thousand Naira
(N300, 000.00), payable into the same Federal Government's account.
The judges ordered that the proceeds of crime; a black Dell Laptop,
one iPhone x, and three Apple wrist watches, should be forfeited to
the Federal Government of Nigeria. The items are to be sold via public
auction by the EFCC's Secretary, and the proceeds paid into the EFCC
Recovery Account domiciled in the Central Bank of Nigeria. The convicts
should also depose to affidavits of good behaviour before the court.
Ezenwadi and Uchechukwu’s journey to the Correctional Centre started
when they were arrested in a sting operation by operatives of the EFCC
at Aba Owerri Road, Aba, Abia state , for internet- related offences.
Further investigations showed that they were involved in fraudulent
cyber dealings.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcourt-2
*********************************************
5 APR 2022
Court Sends Three Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
Three Internet fraudsters, Daniel Ogbemudia Isaiah, Aisosa Enobahkre
and Omokaro Augustine Israel were on Tuesday April 5, 2022, convicted
and sentenced to prison by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High
Court sitting in Benin City.
The trio were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission on one count charge of personation
and obtaining by false pretence. For instance, one of the defendants
Isaiah presented himself as Henrick Kronberg, a crypto currency
investment expert on Instagram in order to defraud unsuspecting
victims.
The charge against Enobahkre reads: "that you Aisosa Enobahkre
(alias Jerry Burger) sometime in 2021 within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud different persons
falsely represented yourself as one Jerry Burger a bitcoin mining
expert on Instagram and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code, Cap
48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria (as applicable in Edo State)
1976.
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge. In
view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, K. U Udus prayed the
court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the duo of Enobahkre
and Isaiah to two years imprisonment or a fine of N300, 000 while I
srael bagged two years imprisonment or a fine of N200,000.
The trio are to forfeit their phones to the Federal Government
of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good behaviour.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-three-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin
***************************************************
4 APR 2022
Six Land in Jail for Cybercrime in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Monday, April 4, 2022 secured the conviction of six persons
charged for various offences bordering on cyber fraud before Justice
Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court and Justice Adenike Akinpelu
of the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin.
The Convicts are: Akibu Waris Oluwadamilola from Akinyele Local Government
Area of Oyo State; Animasahaun Gbolahan Ahmed from Agege Local Government
Area of Lagos State; Hammed Ibrahim Opeyemi who resides in Atari Area of
Offa, Kwara State; Ibitowa Toheeb Abolayo from Ejigbo Local Government
Area of Osun State; Salaudeen Muritala and Olagoke Hammed from Modakeke
in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State.
The EFCC prosecuted five of the defendants before Justice Sani, while
only Olagoke was tried before Justice Akinpelu of the Kwara State High
Court in Ilorin.
The defendants, who were arraigned on separate charges before the courts
pleaded guilty to their respective charge.
Following their pleas, counsel to the EFCC in the matter - Aliyu Adebayo,
Sesan Ola, Andrew Akoja and Rasheedat Alao who reviewed the facts of the
cases and tendered extra-judicial statements of the defendants, phones,
laptops, cars and fraudulent messages printed from their device, which
were admitted in evidence.
The counsel urged the court to consider the proof of evidence, plea of
guilt entered by the defendants and hold that the prosecution had
established prima-facie case against the defendants. They prayed the
court to convict them as charged.
In their separate judgements on the cases, Justice Sani and Akinpelu
agreed that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The Justices found each of the defendants guilty of their respective
charges.
Justice Sani sentence Akibu to one-year imprisonment each on count one
and two, which would run concurrently with option of fine of N200,000
(Two Hundred Thousand Naira) on each count. The Judge ordered that one
Toyota Camry Car, iphone 6 plus, hp laptop and monies which are proceeds
of the illegal activities in his bank accounts be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
The Judge sentenced Animashaun to three-year imprisonment on count one
with option of fine of N59,900 (Fifty Nine Thousand, Five Hundred Naira
Only) and three-year imprisonment on count two with option of fine of
N584,700 (Five Hundred and Eighty Four Thousand, Seven Hundred Naira
Only). The Court ordered that one iphone 12 which was used to perpetrate
the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Hammed bagged one-year imprisonment on count one, two and three which
would run concurrently with option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred
Thousand Naira) on each count. The convict was ordered to raise the
sum of $130 (One Hundred and Thirty Dollars) as restitution, while his
iPhone X would be forfeited to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Justice Sani sentenced Ibitowa to one-year imprisonment
with option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira). The judge
ordered the forfeiture of one iPhone x used by the convict to perpetrate
the crime to the Federal Government.
The judge sentenced Salaudeen to one-year imprisonment each on count one
and two with option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) on
each count. The court ordered the forfeiture of one Toyota Camry Car and
iPhone 11 Promax to the Federal Government.
For Olagoke, Justice Akinpelu pronounced a prison term of six-years each
on count one and two with option of fine of N150,000 (One Hundred and Fifty
Thousand Naira) on each count. The judge also ordered that one Honda Accord
Car, iPhone 11 Promax and the sum of N1,913,432.75 domiciled in the convict's
Keystone bank account be forfeited to the Federal Government
The press release contains a small photo of each 419er:
six-land-in-jail-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
************************************
4 APR 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin
Justice S.M Shuaibu of the Federal High Court sitting in Benin City
on Monday, April 4, 2022, convicted and sentenced two internet fraudsters
to three years imprisonment for fraud.
The fraudsters Kazeem Akeem (aka Rose Tinda) and Akinbisodun Opeyemi were
arraigned on one count charge by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC for
fraudulent impersonation.
The charge against Akeem reads: "That you Kazeem Akeem (aka Rose Tinda)
on or about the 26th day of April 2021 at Housing Estate, Owo Local
Government Area of Ondo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, fraudulently impersonated one Rose Tinda, a white woman by using
email tindalerose@gmail.com with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (i) and
(ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and
punishable under section 22(2) (b)(iv) of the same Act".
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of their plea, the prosecution counsel, Ibrahim Mohammed prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly. However,
the defence counsel, Eric Ewierhoma pleaded with the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendants have become remorseful for his action.
Justice Shuaibu convicted and sentenced the defendants to three years
imprisonment each with an option of N300,000 fine.
In addition, the defendants shall forfeit their mobile phones to the
Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good
behavior henceforth.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin
***************************************
1 APR 2022
Court Jails 14 for Fraud in Calabar
A Federal High Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State, presided
over by Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu has convicted one Obed Chukwuemeka Great,
a Student of the University of Calabar, and 13 others for offences
bordering on criminal impersonation with intent to defraud.
The 13 others aged between 18 and 27 are: Nwagbara Randy Chima, Omororo
Charity, Enya Aboli Samuel, Otaka Emmanuel, Owolabi Kolawole and Ekima
Kingsley Ujiokoyo.
Others are: David Frank Osas, Gabriel Uko Ogbu, Ihemekwelam Uriel Chkwuemeka,
Ejiofor Victor, Thank-God Udeme, John Omokhagbon Audi and Gabriel Okongor.
The defendants were arraigned on different dates, and they pleaded 'guilty'
to the separate one count charge preferred against them by the Uyo Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
One of the charge reads: "That you, Ejiofor Victor sometimes in 2022 in
Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to
obtain property and gain advantage for yourself, fraudulently presented
yourself as Peter Weller and James Garland, an American Bitcoin manager,
to your victims on Facebook and Instagram and obtained the sum of Two
Thousand Dollars ($2,000) and thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 22 (2) (b)(i) and (ii) of the Cyber Crime (Prohibition, Prevention
Etc) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (b) (iv) of the same Act".
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Segun Akinrinlade, prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
But Justice Ojukwu convicted and sentenced the defendants as follows:
Nwagbara and Omororo were sentenced to 1year imprisonment with the
option of a fine of N800,000.00 each while Samuel was sentenced to 6
months imprisonment with the same option of fine.
Ejiofor was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment with the option of a fine
of N800,000.00, while Udeme, Audi and Okongor were sentenced to 1 year
imprisonment each with the option of a fine of N800,000.00 each.
While Obed Chukwuemeka Great, Otaka Emmanuel, Owolabi Kolawole, Ekima
Ujiokoyo, David Osas, Gabriel Ogbu and Ihemekwelam Uriel Chkwuemeka were
sentenced to 1year imprisonment each with the option of a fine of
N800, 000.00 except Ogbu who bagged 6 months imprisonment with same
option of fine.
All 14 convicts were ordered to forfeit the gadgets they used in committing
the crimes to the Federal Government.
The convicts were arrested at different locations within Cross River and
Akwa Ibom States on February 22, 2022 and March 1, 2022 by operatives of
the Commission, during sting operations.
The press release contains photos of 10 of the 419ers:
court-jails-14-for-fraud-in-calabar
*****************************************
1 APR 2022
Ex-Convict, Oyeyemi Loses Rights Suit against EFCC
Justice Sikiru Oyinloye of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin on
Thursday, March 31, 2022 dismissed a fundamental right suit brought
by a convicted fraudster, Oyeyemi Caleb, against Ilorin Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Oyeyemi, 21, from Odo-Owa in Oke-Ero Local Government Area of Kwara
State was sometime last year prosecuted by the Ilorin Zonal Command
of the EFCC before Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the State High Court
in Ilorin over offences bordering on internet fraud. Specifically,
he posed as a white lady, an online prostitute to scam one Wilson
(a white man) to the tune of $100 US Dollars in order to offer him
sex.
The court, on June 21, 2021 found him guilty and sentenced him to
one-year imprisonment each on the two counts preferred against him,
to run concurrently with option of fine of N200,000 on each count.
Upon conviction, Oyeyemi, through his counsel, A. T Smith, returned
to court with a fundamental rights charge against the EFCC. He claimed
that, moment after his sentencing by the court; he was forcefully bundled
away by operatives of the Commission in a gestapo manner and driven to
the Ilorin Zonal Command Office of the agency, where he alleged that
he was unlawfully detained for three hours.
He also claimed that the operatives forcefully put placard on his chest
with the inscription: "Alleged Case of Internet Fraud", which mug-shot
was taken and uploaded on the Commission's website.
The applicant asked for order of court awarding N10million damages
against the EFCC and cause the Commission to tender public apology
for infringing on his fundamental rights.
The EFCC, in response through her counsel, Aliyu Adebayo, argued
that the mug-shot in question was taken on March 16, 2020, and not
on June 21, 2021 when the applicant was convicted. He also submitted
that putting the picture of the applicant in Commission's website
after he was convicted did not constitute any abuse to the applicant's
fundamental rights, saying that the Commission acted within the law.
He urged the court to dismiss the application on the ground that
the applicant was never arrested nor detained by the Commission
as alleged by the applicant.
In dismissing the suit, Justice Oyinloye while agreeing with submission
of the respondent's counsel, held that, from the exhibit "C" presented
by the applicant's counsel, it was clear that the mug-shot which constituted
the crux of the application was dated March 16, 2020, which was the day of
the applicant's arrest and not on the date he was convicted.
The judge observed the use of unprintable and foul language by counsel
to the applicant, A. T Smith, against the respondent's counsel, in his
affidavit and written address and frowned at it.
On a whole, the judge considered the application as unmeritorious and
"gold-digging" in nature, and accordingly dismissed it.
The press release contains a photo:
ex-convict-oyeyemi-loses-rights-suit-against-efcc
************************************
1 APR 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Five Years Jail in Benin
Justice S. M. Shuaibu of the Federal High Court sitting in Benin
City on Thursday, March 31, 2022, convicted and sentenced Samson
Obademi to five years imprisonment for fraud.
Obademi was arraigned on one count charge of impersonation by the
Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The charge against him reads, "that you Samson Obademi (M) sometime
between January and 23rd April 2021 at Owo, Ondo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate
the identity of Steven Sammy, an American with intent to obtain money
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (ii)
of Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention, etc) Act 2015 and punishable
under Section 22(2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
Upon arraignment the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his pleas, the prosecution counsel, K. U. Udus prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. However,
the defence counsel, O.J Semudara urged the court to temper justice
with mercy as the defendant has become remorseful for his action.
Justice Shuaibu convicted and sentenced the defendant to five years
imprisonment with an option of Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N300, 000)
fine.
In addition, the defendant shall forfeit his mobile phone to the
Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of
good behavior henceforth.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-five-years-jail-in-benin
****************************************
31 MAR 2022
Court Sends Two Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin
Two Internet fraudsters, Kelvin Ehimen Okonedo and Godwill Jacob
were on Thursday March 31, 2022, convicted and sentenced to prison
by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin
City.
The duo were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission on one count charge of impersonation
and obtaining by false pretence.
One of the defendants, Kelvin Okonedo fraudulently impersonated
Kelvin Richard, an American soldier by sending his pictures to
unsuspecting Korean ladies through the internet with the intent
to defrauding them. On his part, Jacob claimed to be Chen Changchun,
a Korean, to defraud unsuspecting victims.
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge. In
view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Austin Ozigbu, prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendants in accordingly.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Okonedo to four years
imprisonment or a fine of N300,000. Okonedo is to forfeit the sum
of Nine Hundred and Twenty Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Twenty
Seven Naira (N927, 927) being balance in his bank account to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
Jacob bagged five years imprisonment or a fine of N500,000. Both
defendants are to forfeit their phones and undertake in writing
to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-two-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin
********************************************
31 MAR 2022
Fraudster Bags Two Years for Internet Fraud in Port Harcourt
Justice S. D. PAM of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State have convicted and sentenced one Joseph Ajilo to two years
jail term in prison on one count charge of impersonation.
The charge reads, "That you Joseph Ajilo Igben on or about the 10th
of November, 2021 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court fraudulently impersonated one Amber Mounday
with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prevention,
Prohibition, etc) Act 2015 and punishable under the same Act". He pleaded
"guilty" to the charge preferred against him by the EFCC.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, C. O. Oni, prayed the court
to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Pam convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years in prison,
with an option of fine of Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N250,000.00)
payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria.
He also ordered that the convict should forfeit the proceeds of crime
and one Tecno Camon 12 phone used in committing the offence to the Federal
Republic of Nigeria.
The Judge also said that the convict shall restitute the victim Four
Thousand Five Hundred United States Dollars ($4,500).
Ajilo's journey to the Correctional Service started when he was arrested
sometimes in November 2021 by officers of the Commission, at Ada George
area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State for internet fraud activities.
Investigation shows that the convict had been involved in internet fraud
with several scam documents on his phone. It was also revealed that
the convict owns and operates a fake email address with the name
ambermounday96@gmail.com and uses his Hangouts user name Amber Mounday
in chatting with his victims, Bruce Williams and Tom .W. Miller.
Further investigation proved that Igben deceived his victims into believing
that he could help them turn around their funds through Bitcoin trading.
The victims believed and invested a total of Four Thousand Five Hundred
Dollars ($4,500) but were left high and dry by the defendant.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
fraudster-bags-two-years-for-internet-fraud-in-port-harcourt
*****************************************
31 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 24 Internet Fraud Suspects in Asaba
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
Benin Zonal Command, on Thursday March 31, 2022, arrested
24 persons for alleged internet fraud.
They were arrested at their hideout in Asaba, Delta State
following actionable intelligence.
The suspects are Obikolu Lawrence Chukwuemeka, Ezennabuike
Daniel, Emmanuel Favour, Efemenam Ifeanyi, Andrew Martin
Udeorah, Anozie Ugochukwu, Oziegbe Famous, Onalugbum Ekene,
Nonso Nwakor, Gabriel Igelije and Paul Enakeno. Others are
Chigbo Kanayo Stephen, Chinedu Emejon, Nwabueze Arinze,
Harrison Chukwuji and Chinonso Jude Emejom.
Items recovered from the suspects at the point of arrest
include two Toyota Camry, Mercedes Benz car, Laptops and
mobile phones.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned
in court as soon as the investigation is concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-24-internet-fraud-suspects-in-asaba
*************************************
31 MAR 2022
Three Internet Fraudsters Convicted in Ibadan
An Oyo Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, on March 30,
2022, convicted and sentenced three internet fraudsters for
their involvement in fraudulent cyber activities after they
pleaded "guilty" to the separate charges preferred against
them by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The convicts are Ojelakin Yinka Oluwaseun, Adebayo Fawaz
Gbolahan and Ehis Hopkins Esezobor were prosecuted on charges
of fraudulent impersonation contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i)
and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
Justice Agomoh sentenced Ojelakin to two years imprisonment,
Esezobor to eight months and Adebayo to five months jail term.
The court further ordered that the convicts restitute their
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of all three 419ers:
three-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-ibadan'Tom Cruise' Convicted In Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, March 30, 2022, secured the
conviction and sentencing of an internet fraudster, Etegene
Japheth,to six months imprisonment before Justice Oluwatoyin
Taiwo of the Special Offence court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Japheth was arraigned on a one count amended charge bordering
on possession of documents containing false pretence.
The charge reads: "Etegene Japheth (aka Mr. Tim Graw and Tom
Cruise), on or about the 16th day of February 2022 in Lagos,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, had in your
possession several documents containing false pretences, one
of which is a record of your conversation with several unsuspecting
victims via your email address tomcruise3705@gmail.com, wherein
you represented yourself as Mr. Tim Graw and Tom Cruise in order
to obtain gift cards and money from them, a representation you
knew was false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, the prosecuting counsel, Blessing John,
reviewed the facts of the case and tendered in evidence the
statement of the defendant as well as the bundle of fraudulent
documents printed out from the iPhone 12 recovered from him.
The prosecution counsel also prayed that he be convicted and
sentenced accordingly.
Justice Taiwo admitted them in evidence as exhibits A and B,
and pronounced him guilty as charged.
He was, thereafter, sentenced to six months imprisonment, with
an option of N200,000 fine.
The convict was ordered to also forfeit all items recovered
from him to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
tom-cruise-convicted-in-lagos
**********************************
30 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 80 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Ibadan,
40 in Enugu
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested eighty (80) suspects for alleged
internet- related activities in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Forty (40) other suspects were arrested by operatives of the Enugu
Zonal Command of the Commission for the same suspected offences.
They were all arrested based on verified intelligence linking them
with fraudulent internet activities.
Incriminating documents were found in 35 of the 80 suspects arrested
in Ibadan and they are:
Victor Abumere, Kehinde Samuel, Adedeji Ibrahim Olamilekan, Akinbowale
Emmanuel, Taiwo Azeez, Adenuga Sunday, Sidiku Olubodun, Ekhuemelo Jerry,
Agboola Khalid Babatunde, Alex Kelvin, Akande Jonah, Tobiloba Adekanye,
Fatai Olalekan T., Giwa Babatunde David and Emmanuel Victor Mayowa.
Others are: Taofeek Toheeb Olamilekan, Olamilekan Fafilolu Quadri, Olayinka
Taiwo Olaniyi, Emmanuel Abiodun Olalekan, Awoleke Opeyemi Uthman, Ikenna Anyanwu
Victor, Mosuro Daniel Oluwaseun, Amoo Abdulmalik Ademola, Oluwaseun Adeniran,
Kehinde Kehinde Olatunji, Bakare Kayode Augustine, Okoli Propser, Kolawole
Blessing, Okeolu Moshood, and Hammed Khalid Ayomide.
The rest are: Hassan Waris Ademola, Taiwo Ademola, Adewale Ayomiposi,
Abdullahi Maleek Olaniyi, Masika Adekunle Andrew.
The suspects were arrested in various locations in Ibadan, Oyo State and
items recovered from them include: thirteen (13) exotic cars, three (3)
motor bikes and mobile phones and laptops of different brands.
The 40 suspects arrested on March 29 and 30, 2022 in Enugu are: Chimezie
Onyegwa, Chukwuebuka Jamespaul, Adams Nengi, Chibua Emmanuel. Mmoh Henry,
Kingsly Obinna, Francis Alex, Nelson Chidiebere, Paschal Eze, Eke Emmanuel,
Ezeme Johnpaul , Aroh Kenneth, Ugwu Darlington , Chukwuemeka Collins and
Ejielo Ifeanyi
Others are: Justin Obidiwe, Chibuike Henry, Chukwuemeka Okafor, Osodiuru
Prince, Nwachukwu Steven, kelekchukwu Ugwu, Ugwuoke Victor, Udeh Victor,
Ekata Endurance, Ukpabi Evidence, Eze Obinna, Amobi Eya, Victor Joshua,
Gabriel Noel and Chisom Ede Nnamuchi.
The rest include Onwe Nnamdi,Okonkwo Somtochukwu, Nnaji Ifeanyi, Ezeagu
Ifeanyi, Maduabuchi Nwangbo, Onyenamaya Tochukwu,Wisdom Solomon, Agu Chibuzor,
Nwokoro Sochima and Ifeanyichukwu Miracle.
They were arrested in Nsukka, and the Premier Layout Axis of Enugu, Enugu
State following verified intelligence linking them with suspected internet-
related offences.
Items recovered from them are, three cars, mobile phones and laptops of
various brands and other incriminating documents.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-80-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-ibadan-40-in-enugu
******************************************
30 MAR 2022
Another Four Cybercriminals Jailed by Oyo Court
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 secured the conviction
and sentencing of four cyber fraudsters before Justice Uche Agomoh
of the Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Kareem Faisol Iretiayo, Olusola Johnson Alawode, Alli Isaac Adeniyi
and Adekunle Salau Kehinde were convicted after pleading guilty to
separate counts which bordered on fraudulent impersonation, contrary
to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under Section 22(3) of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act,
Justice Agomoh sentenced Alli to eight months imprisonment; Adekunle,
ten months imprisonment; Kareem, six months and Alawode five months
imprisonment.
Also, the court ordered that Alli forfeit one 2010 model Mercedes-Benz
ML 350, one Gold Chain, one iPhone 12 Pro Max, one Nokia 3.4 mobile
phone, 0.15757655 worth of Bitcoin and the sum of N33, 497. 59 (Thirty
Three Thousand, Four Hundred and Ninety Seven Naira Fifty Nine Kobo)
to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Adekunle was ordered to restitute the sum of $3,000USD (Three Thousand
United States Dollars) and forfeit one iPhone 11 Pro and the sum of
N33, 083. 19 (Thirty Three Thousand, Eighty Three Naira, Nineteen kobo)
to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Furthermore, Kareem was ordered to restitute $2,300USD (Two Thousand,
Three Hundred United States Dollars), and forfeit one itel phone to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Alawode was ordered to pay the sum of N150, 000. 00 (One Hundred and
Fifty Thousand Naira) in restitution and forfeit one Lexus E350, one
HP Laptop, one iPhone X and Techno Spark mobile phones to the Federal
government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
another-four-cybercriminals-jailed-by-oyo-court
******************************************
30 MAR 2022
Dog Seller Bags Two Years Imprisonment for Cyber-Fraud in Ilorin
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court, Ilorin on Wednesday,
March 30, 2022 convicted and sentenced one Omoteji Tomiwa Stephen,
who deals in dogs, to two years imprisonment, having found him guilty
of a two-count charge bordering on impersonation to obtain leveled
against him by Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Omoteji, 23, from Egbe in Yaba West Local Government Area of Kogi
State allegedly posed as one Michael Gregory vide a gmail account
linked to his hangouts account with intent to obtain a sum of $2000
(Two Thousand US Dollars) from one Sierra B. Price, an offence contrary
to Section 22(2) (b) (11) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention
etc.) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (iv) of the same Act.
Count one of the charge reads: "That you, Omoteji Tomiwa Stephen (Alias:
Micheal Gregory) sometime in September, 2021 at Kwara State, within the
judicial division of the Federal High Court, did fraudulently impersonate
one Micheal Gregory vide your chats using Gmail; fsgfdrtr.56r5tgf@gmail.com
linked to your Hangouts number 765-396-8539 with the intent to obtain and
did obtain the sum of $2000 (Two Thousand US Dollars) from one Sierra B.
Price and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 22(2) (b) (11)
of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention Etc.) Act 2015 and punishable
under Section 22 (2) (iv) of the same Act."
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Upon his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Andrew Akoja, reviewed the facts of
the case and tendered the fraudulent messages printed from the defendant's
device, one iPhone 12 Pro Max, HP laptop and one Toyota Corolla 2008 car,
which were admitted in evidence.
Akoja prayed the court to hold that the prosecution had successfully
linked the defendant to the charge and convict him as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Sani sentenced Omoteji to one year imprisonment
on each of the two counts, which would run concurrently with an option of
fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on each count. The j
udge also ordered the forfeiture of the convict's iPhone 12 Pro Max, HP
Laptop and a 2008 Toyota Corolla car to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Additionally, Justice Sani ordered the convict to restitute the sum of
$100 (One Hundred US Dollars), which he benefited from the crime.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
dog-seller-bags-two-years-imprisonment-for-cyber-fraud-in-ilorin
*********************************************
29 MAR 2022
Yahoo Boy's Mother Jailed Five Years in Benin
Debest Osarumwense, mother of Endurance Osarumwense, an internet
fraudster was on Tuesday March 29, 2022, sentenced to five years
imprisonment by Justice M. S. Shuaibu of the Federal High Court
sitting in Benin City.
Debest was arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Commission
on a one count charge for aiding her son to receive the sum of
N91,296,150.00, proceeds of his criminal activities.
The charge against her reads: "that you, Debest Osarumwense (f)
sometime between 2nd January 2020 and December 2021 in Edo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did take possession
of the total sum of N91,296,150.00(Ninety One Million, Two Hundred
and Ninety-six Thousand, One Hundred and Fifty Naira) knowing that
same represent proceeds of Endurance Osarumwense (your son) criminal
conduct to wit: cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Section 17(b) of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission Establishment) Act 2004".
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty.
In view of her plea, the prosecution counsel, I. K.Agwai prayed the
court to convict and sentence her accordingly.
Justice Shuaibu convicted and sentenced the defendant to five years
imprisonment with option of N1 million fine. She is also to forfeit
the balance in her bank account to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the convict:
yahoo-boy-s-mother-jailed-five-years-in-benin
********************************
29 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests Suspect on FBI Wanted-List in Enugu
The Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has arrested Emmanuel Dike Chidiebere, a suspect
on the watch list of the American Federal Bureau of Investigation,
FBI, for conspiracy, wire fraud and money laundering.
Acting on verified intelligence, operatives of the Commission on
Wednesday, March 23, 2022, tracked the suspect to Orlu Local
Government Area of Imo State where he was arrested.
Chidiebere is alleged to have defrauded some victims in America,
Cote D’Ivoire and Poland of some undisclosed amount of money and
went underground.
Three of his accomplices are still at large.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-suspect-on-fbi-wanted-list-in-enugu
************************************
29 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests Six Internet Fraud Suspects in Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command on the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday March 29, 2022,
arrested six suspected internet fraudsters.
The suspects, Anthony Chimezie, Ezenwaji Chinecherem, Nebo
Chisom, Ndubuisi Chukwuebuka, Danyl Kosisochukwu and Ewo
Williams were all arrested at Mankind Street, Ugwuaji, Enugu
based on verified intelligence.
Preliminary investigations linked them with suspected
impersonation, possession of fraudulent documents and
defrauding unsuspecting foreign nationals.
Items recovered from the suspects include 12 mobile
phones, 3 laptops and other incriminating documents.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as
investigations are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-six-internet-fraud-suspects-in-enugu
*************************************
29 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 11 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Kano
The Kano Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has arrested 11 suspected internet fraudsters.
The suspects, Adams Adams Aliyu, Vincent Ellah Sunday, Audu Gabriel,
Isah M. Isah, Usman Abdulmumin, Gift Itopa Edward, Joseph C. Ugeh,
Sunny O. West, Babajide Usman, Mustapha Muhammed and Babadoke Peter
were arrested in a sting operation in Kano, following credible
intelligence on their involvement in cyber-related crimes.
Five (5) exotic cars, mobile phones and laptops were recovered
from the suspects.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-11-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-kano
***********************************
29 MAR 2022
Internet Fraudster Bags Jail Term in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, secured the
conviction and sentencing of an internet fraudster, Abioye
Gabriel, to six months imprisonment before Justice Oluwatoyin
A. Taiwo of the Special Offence court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Gabriel was arraigned today on a one-count charge bordering
on possession of documents containing false pretence.
The charge reads reads: "That you, Abioye Gabriel Oluwafemi,
on or about 15th February 2022, at Lagos, within the Ikeja
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with the intent to
defraud, had in your possession a bundle of documents containing
fraudulent chats and committed an offence contrary to Section
320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State."
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Blessing John,
reviewed the facts of the case and prayed that he be convicted
and sentenced accordingly.
Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced him to six months imprisonment,
with an option of fine in the sum of N200,000.00(Two Hundred Thousand
Naira).
The convict was ordered to also forfeit all items recovered from
him to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraudster-bags-jail-term-in-lagos-3
**********************************
29 MAR 2022
Oyo Court Jails Two for Internet Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal
Command on Monday 28, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of the duo of Ojo Gbenga Stephen and Emekhe Michael Ese before
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State
on one count charge each for impersonation.
The charge against Ojo reads: "That you, Ojo Gbenga Stephen sometime
in May, 2021 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
fraudulently impersonate one Susan James from the United States of
America with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (i) and punishable under
Section 22 (2) (b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.)
Act, 2015."
The charge against Ese reads: "That you, Emekhe Michael Ese sometimes
in 2021 at Ibadan within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with
intent to defraud, knowingly impersonated one Robert Anderson, when you
falsely represented yourself to be a white woman, Giseli Dammer in order
to gain advantage for yourself contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (ii) of
the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.)Act, 2015 and punishable
under Section 22(2)(b) of the same Act, 2015."
Prosecution counsel, Sanusi Galadanchi after the defendants’ pleas
prayed the court to convict and sentence them as he reviewed the facts
of the cases.
Justice Agomoh thereafter convicted and sentenced Ojo to nine months
imprisonment and Ese to five months imprisonment.
She further ordered that Ojo restitute the sum of N850, 000.00 (Eight
Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only) to his victim while Ese was to
pay $700USD (Seven Hundred United States Dollars) in restitution and
forfeit one white coloured iPhone X and a grey coloured Samsung A32
to the Federal government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
oyo-court-jails-two-for-internet-fraud
************************************
28 MAR 2022
Become Change Agents, Bawa urges Nigerian Youths
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, has called on members of the National Youth
Service Corps, NYSC, to serve as change agents by shunning all acts of
corruption and economic and financial crimes.
He gave the charge on Monday, March 28, 2022 in Lagos State, while
addressing Corps members at the NYSC Orientation camp at Iyana-Ipaja,
Lagos.
According to him "As young Nigerians, the EFCC expects you to align
yourselves with the anti-corruption war by being change agents and
whistle blowers wherever you find yourselves by reporting acts that
fail the simple test of integrity."
Bawa, who spoke through DCE Ayo Oyewole Head, Public Affairs Directorate
of the EFCC in the Lagos Zonal Command, urged the corps members to make
positive impact in their primary places of assignment, adding that "It
is no use lamenting that things are not right with our country. We are
inviting you to lend a hand in helping us to build a society where there
is respect for law and order and where impunity is a thing of the past."
Also speaking in Kwara State, Bawa has enjoined corps members to join
the Commission in its efforts to rid the country of corruption by becoming
anti-graft foot soldiers in any place they find themselves, especially in
their place of primary assignment. He said that they can blow the whistle
by reporting acts that fail the simple test of integrity, instead of
lamenting that things are not right with the country.
His admonition was contained in a message entitled, "EFCC And The Role
of Youths in Curbing Cybercrime", delivered on his behalf on Monday, March
28, 2022 by Head, Public Affairs Department of the Ilorin Zonal Command
of the Commission, Ayodele Babatunde, for 2022 Batch A Stream II corps
members at the National Youths Service Corps, NYSC, Orientation Camp,
Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area, Kwara State.
While urging the youth to imbibe the virtue of integrity and hard work,
the EFCC boss reminded them that there is no shortcut to wealth and fame.
"The fact that the rate of unemployment is high should not be an excuse
to resort to crimes. Acts of criminality might deliver wealth in the
short term, but ultimately there will be misery and gnashing of teeth",
he said.
In Delta State, Bawa charged corps members to be good examples in
conduct and character if they are to actualize their dreams as future
leaders.
The EFCC boss stated this at the National Youth Service Corps
orientation camp, Isse Uku, Delta State.
The EFCC boss who was represented by Williams Oseghale, Head of Public
Affairs, Benin Zonal Command urged the corps members to shun acts of
corruption and economic crimes. "There is no short cut to wealth and
fame. The fact that the rate of unemployment is high should not be an
excuse to resort to crime. Acts of criminality might deliver wealth
in the short term but ultimately there will be misery and gnashing
of teeth."
In a similar message delivered by Chika Uneke, an officer of the
Commission at the NYSC Camp, Okada, Edo State. He warned the corps
members to shun internet fraud as it was capable of truncating their
desirable future.
At the Magaji Dan Yamusa NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp Keffi,
Nasarrawa State Bawa, who was represented by SE Ngoundu Nguetar
of the Public Affairs Unit, Abuja Zonal Command bemoaned the effects
of corruption, economic and financial crimes on our nation. He reminded
the Corps members that their input as stakeholders is critical to
finding a lasting solution to the problem of corruption.
He charged the Corps members to be role models and shun all forms
of corruption, especially cybercrime also known as 'yahoo-yahoo'.
Similar messages were presented at orientation camps across the
country.
The press release includes a photo:
become-change-agents-bawa-urges-nigerian-youths
**************************************
28 MAR 2022
75 Alleged Yahoo Boys Arrested in Owerri
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
have arrested 75 suspected internet fraudsters in separate sting
operations in Owerri, Imo State. The Abuja Zonal Command arrested
46 suspects on Monday, March 28, 2022, for alleged involved in
computer-related fraud at different locations in Owerri, the Imo
State capital.
The suspects who are mainly students and job seekers between the
ages of 18 to 31 years were apprehended after superior intelligence
was received on the nefarious activities of the young men. Upon
their arrest 6 cars, various phones and laptops of different makes
were recovered from them.
In a related development, Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal
Command of the Commission on Friday, 25th March, 2022 arrested
twenty-nine (29) suspected internet fraudsters, at several hideouts
in Nekede Road and Owerri Axis of Imo State but incriminating items
were found on seventeen of the suspects.
They were all arrested based on verified intelligence reports linking
them with alleged fraudulent activities ranging from love scam on
numerous dating sites, impersonation, and possession of fraudulent
documents, picker and bitcoin scam.
The suspects are Samuel Patrick, Brima Edegba, Kingsley Williams,
Audu Emeka, David Godson, Alex James, Prince Akachukwu Nkemjika,
Chidi Eze, Kizito Emenyonu, Wisdom Handsome Chibuenyim, Chibuike
Mbonu, Christian Sorochi, Victory Oparanozie, Uche Alex, Kingsley
Eke, Collins Williams and Charles Iwu.
Items recovered from them at the point of arrest, include foreign
currencies, Toyota Avalon, 2 Toyota Camry, Toyota Corolla 2004 Model,
Lexus ES 350, Mercedes ML 350, Lexus RS 350, and Toyota Venza.
Others are fifty-eight phones (58) of different brands, eight
laptops, one driver's licence and six ATM Cards.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
75-alleged-yahoo-boys-arrested-in-owerri
***************************************
28 MAR 2022
Internet Fraud Kingpin Bags 2 Years in Port Harcourt
Justice A. T. Mohammed of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State has convicted and sentenced one Japheth Tallick Friday to two
years imprisonment for impersonation contrary to section 22 (2) (b) (i) of
the Cybercrimes (Prevention, Prohibition, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable
under section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act.
He was convicted upon an arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission EFCC, Port Harcourt Zonal Command on March 22, 2022 on one count
Charge.
The lone count reads:
"That you Japheth Tallick Friday on or about the 23rd September, 2021, at
Port Harcourt did fraudulently impersonates Chris Dent with intent to gain
advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prevention, Prohibition, etc) Act 2015
and punishable under section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge preferred against him.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, N. A. Dodo prayed the court to
convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Mohammed convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years
imprisonment with an option of fine of One Million Naira (N1, 000,000.00)
payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria.
The judge also ordered that a Toyota Corolla 2009 Model (RGM 05RG), 55
inch Hisense TV, HP Laptop, one Blue iPhone 12, one gold coloured iPhone,
one blue hard drive and one gold chain which are proceeds of crime be
forfeited to the Federal Government through the Secretary of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, or any other person (s) authorized
by him in line with Section 31 of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission Establishment Act, 2004 and proceeds paid into the EFCC Recovery
Account domiciled in Central Bank of Nigeria. Additionally, the defendant
shall undertake to be of good behaviour henceforth.
Friday's journey to the Correctional Centre started when the Commission
received intelligence report on the activities of some internet fraudsters
around Eagle Island, Port Harcourt, Rivers.
The convict was arrested in a sting operation on the 10th of November,
2021 at Elder Wobo Apara Street, Eagle Island, Port Harcourt.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraud-kingpin-bags-2-years-in-port-harcourt
**************************************
25 MAR 2022
EFCC Docks Indian for N70m Dud Cheque …
Secures Conviction of Two Nigerians for Cybercrime in Ibadan
[419 Coaition has redacted the dud-cheque portion of the press
release, as it is not relevant to 419 Advance Fee Fraud. The
419 relevant section follows]
...the EFCC on March 23, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of one Osinuga Oluwa Adeyemi and Musa Lanre Dauda before Justices Uche
Agomoh of the Federal High Court and Sherifat Adeyemi of the State
Hihg Court, both sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, on separate one count
charge each which bordered on cybercrime.
The convicts pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against them.
Consequently, Adeyemi was convicted and sentenced to five months
imprisonment while Dauda bagged six months community service.
Also, the convicts were ordered to restitute their victims as well
as forfeit all items recovered from them by the EFCC.
efcc-docks-indian-for-n70m-dud-cheque-secures-conviction-of-two-nigerians-for-cybercrime-in-ibadan
****************************************************
25 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 29 Internet Fraud Suspects in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Port Harcourt Zonal Office on Friday, March 25, 2022 arrested twenty-nine
(29) suspected internet fraudsters, at several hideouts in Nekede Road
and Owerri Axis of Imo State but incriminating items were found on
seventeen of them.
They were arrested based on verified intelligence reports linking
them with alleged fraudulent activities ranging from love scam on
numerous dating sites, impersonation, and possession of fraudulent
documents, picker and bitcoin scam.
The suspects are Samuel Patrick, Brima Edegba, Kingsley Williams,
Audu Emeka, David Godson, Alex James, Prince Akachukwu Nkemjika,
Chidi Eze, Kizito Emenyonu, Wisdom Handsome Chibuenyim, Chibuike
Mbonu, Christian Sorochi, Victory Oparanozie, Uche Alex, Kingsley
Eke, Collins Williams and Charles Iwu.
Items recovered from them include cash in foreign currencies, eight
exotic cars ( a Toyota Avalon, 2 Toyota Camry cars, a Corolla 2004
Model, Lexus ES 350, Mercedes ML 350, Lexus RS 350, Toyota Venza),
fifty-eight phones (58) of different brands, eight laptops, one
driver's licence and six ATM Cards.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
EFCC Arrests 29 Internet Fraud Suspects in Port Harcourt
*******************************************
24 MAR 2022
Fugitive Fraudster Bags 14 Years In Enugu
Justice I.M Buba of the Federal High Court sitting in Enugu
has convicted and sentenced Chinedu Ayogu Christopher to 14
years imprisonment on internet- related offences.
Christopher was arraigned on January 25, 2021, on two- count
charges bordering on obtaining by false pretences and cybercrimes
One of the counts reads:, "that you Chinedu Ayogu Christopher
(Alias Austin Leo), sometime in August 2020 at Enugu within the
jurisdiction of this court was in possession of a document
containing a false pretence knowing that what the document
contained was false and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences
Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act".
The defendant jumped bail after his arraignment and after three
adjournments, in accordance with Section 352(4) of the Administration
of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, Justice Buba adjourned the matter to
September 30, 2021 for adoption of a final written address by the
prosecution. The Judge on February 10 ,2022 found the defendant
guilty, convicted him in absentia and ordered that a bench warrant
earlier issued against him, be executed and the convict brought
before the court for sentencing.
Christopher was re-arrested on March 11, 2022 and presented before
the court on Wednesday, March 23,2022. Justice Buba sentenced him
to seven years imprisonment each on the two counts. The sentences
are to run concurrently.
The convict's journey to the Correctional Centre began in 2020
when he was arrested by operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of
the EFCC on alleged cybercrimes. He was charged to court and
eventually convicted.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
fugitive-fraudster-bags-14-years-in-enugu
*****************************************
24 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 11 Alleged Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Eleven suspected internet fraudsters were on Thursday morning
arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, at their hideout in Benin
City.
The suspects are Aguebor Osabuohie, Omonefe Endurance, Orome
Collins, Eghaghe Etiosa, Amogie Julius, Otsu Destiny, Ehiguese
Odiase, Clifford Otsu, Osagie Ohoro, John Ogbodo and Udoh Godspower.
Items recovered from them include three vehicles: Lexus RX330,
Toyota Hilux and a Toyota Venza; Laptops and mobile phones.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned
in court soon.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-11-alleged-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
**********************************
24 MAR 2022
Two Internet Fraudsters Convicted In Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of an internet fraudster, Eruvwetaghware Hossana, before Justice
Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos.
Hosanna was arraigned on a one-count charge bordering on possession
of fraudulent documents, an offence contrary to Section 320 of the
Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015, to which he pleaded guilty.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Godsent Akhanolu,
while reviewing the facts of the case, told the court that Hosanna
was arrested on March 8, 2022, at Ogombo, Sangotedo area of Lagos,
following credible intelligence received by the Commission about
his involvement in computer-related fraud.
He further told the court that the convict confessed to being
involved in fraudulent activities through which he defrauded
several unsuspecting victims of their money.
Akhanolu tendered the extra-judicial statements of the convict,
the several fraudulent documents printed out of his device as well
as other items recovered from him.
He, therefore, prayed the court to sentence him accordingly.
Justice Dada pronounced him guilty as charged and sentenced him
one year imprisonment, with an option of fine in the sum of N500,000.00
( Five Hundred Thousand) in lieu of his jail term.
In a related development, Justice O.O.A. Fadipe of the Special Offences
Court sitting in Ikeja Lagos has sentenced one Adedayo Adewale to six
months imprisonment over a one-count charge of possession of documents
containing false pretence.
The offence is contrary to Section 6, 8(b) and 1 (3) of the Advance
Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006. .
He pleaded guilty to the offence.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Ahmed Yerima, reviewed
the facts of the case and urged the court to sentence him accordingly.
Justice Fadipe convicted and sentenced him to six months imprisonment,
with an option of fine in the sum of N250,000.00(Two Hundred and Fifty
Thousand Naira).
The press release contains a photo of the two 419ers:
two-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-lagos
************************************
23 MAR 2022
Court Convicts Three Cyber Fraudsters in Oyo
An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, on Wednesday, March 23,
2022 convicted and sentenced three internet fraudsters on one count
amended charge which bordered on obtaining money by false pretence
and impersonation.
The convicts who were prosecuted by the Ibadan Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, are Abiodun
Olamide, Oparemi Ayomide James and Olaitan Waheed.
They pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against them
by the agency.
Subsequently, the prosecution counsel, Shamsuddeen Bashir, urged
the court to convict and sentence them as charged.
Justice Sherifat Adeyemi convicted and sentenced Abiodun and
Oparemi to five months community service each, while Olaitan
bagged four months community service.
She further ordered that the convicts restitute their respective
victims and forfeit all items recovered from them by the EFCC to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of all three 419ers:
court-convicts-three-cyber-fraudsters-in-oyo
**************************************
23 MAR 2022
Court Jails Another Two Internet Fraudsters In Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of
an internet fraudster, Michael Jackson, a.k.a. Ella-Ellywood,
before Justice Tijani G. Ringim of the Federal High Court
sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Justice Ringim sentenced the convict to three months imprisonment
on March 21, 2022 who was arraigned on a one-count charge bordering
on impersonation contrary to and punishable under Section 22(2)(b)
Of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, ETC) Act 2015.
He pleaded guilty to the offence.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, A. R. Alabi, reviewed
the facts before of the case. Alabi told the court that Michael Jackson,
was arrested on January 25, 2022, following credible intelligence received
by the commission on the illegal activities of some individuals allegedly
involved in computer fraud.
"Jackson poses as Ella, a transgender woman, and defrauded unsuspecting
victims of millions of Naira. The convict who is also a DJ had in his
possession fetish items which he claimed was for success", he said.
He also tendered the following ; One iPhone 11 Pro; one Mack Book;
one Hp Laptop; One 4Runner Toyota Jeep; one Honda Accord, the defendant's
extra-judicial statements and several fraudulent documents printed out
of the defendant’s device. These exhibits were admitted by the court.
Alabi further prayed the court to convict and sentence him accordingly.
Justice Ringim pronounced him guilty as charged and convicted him
accordingly. The Judge also ordered the forfeiture of the items
recovered from the convict to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-another-two-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
*****************************************
23 MAR 2022
Five Internet Fraudsters Convicted in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing
of five internet fraudsters, who were arraigned on separate
one-count charge bordering on possession of fraudulent documents,
to two years imprisonment each before Justice Yellin S. Bogoro
of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The convicts are: Surajudeen Mujeeb, Aderibigbe Aliyu and
Nurudeen Ayomide Kazeem.
They were arrested following intelligence report about the activities
of a syndicate of internet fraudsters involved in computer-related
fraud in different parts of Lagos State.
Upon their arraignment sometime, they pleaded guilty to the offence.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, K.E Uduak, reviewed
the facts before the court, while praying that they be convicted as
charged.
Justice Bogoro found them guilty and sentenced them accordingly.
The Judge also granted the convicts an option of fine in the sum
of Two Million Naira (N2, 000, 000. 00) each, and also ordered that
all items recovered from them be forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
In a related development, Justice Tijani G. Ringim convicted and
sentenced two internet fraudsters Hassan Mubarak and Joshua Eroguaye.
While Hassan Mubarak was sentenced to one year imprisonment with an
option of fine in the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000. 00),
Joshua Eroguaye got a prison sentence of two months with community service.
The convicts were charged on separate one-count charge bordering on
possession of fraudulent document. They pleaded guilty to the offence.
The prosecution counsel, Bilkisu Buhari Bala (Mrs.), therefore, reviewed
the facts of the case and urged the court to find them guilty of the
offence and sentence accordingly.
five-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-lagos-2
*******************************************
22 MAR 2022
Court Jails Three Internet Fraudsters In Ibadan
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan,
Oyo State has convicted and sentenced three internet fraudsters
to various jail terms.
The convicts are Toheed Busayo Tiamiyu,(a.k.a Avolos Scott), Soliu
Adewole Ijiola (a.k.a Gracelyn Parley) and Aberuagba Gafar Oladimeji.
(a.k.a John Williams). While Tiamiyu was sentenced to fourteen months
imprisonment, Ijiola bagged five months jail term and Oladimeji was
sentenced to eight months imprisonment.
They were all arraigned on one-count charge bordering on fraudulent
impersonation. Specifically, the trio used false identities to defraud
unsuspecting foreign nationals.
The lone charge against Tiamiyu read: "That you Toheed Busayo Tiamiyu
(a.k.a Avolos Scott, Smith Sadra, Kammerlinder Sandra) on or about the
14th of February, 2019,at Ibadan within the Ibadan Judicial Division
of this Honourable Court fraudulently impersonated one Avolos Scott
with intent to gain monetary advantage for yourself and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)(i)of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section
22(2)(b) of the same Act".
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charge prompting prosecution
counsel, Abdulrasheed Lanre Suleman, to pray the court to convict
and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Agomoh sentenced Tiamiyu to fourteen months imprisonment,
Ijiola five months jail term and Oladimeji eight months imprisonment.
Tiamiyu was ordered to restitute a total sum of $810USD (Eight Hundred
and Ten United States Dollars) to his victim: Jessica Rowley through
the EFCC and to also forfeit his blue Infinix Hot 8 Lite phone to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
Justice Agomoh also ordered Ijiola to restitute a total sum of $1,000USD
(One Thousand United States Dollars) to his victim through the EFCC and
to also forfeit one black- coloured Lexus ES350 car, as well as one
black-coloured iPhone 11 phone to the Federal government of Nigeria.
Also, Oladimeji would restitute a total sum of $500USD (Five Hundred
United States Dollars) to his victim: Marily Layton through the EFCC
and to also forfeit his iPhone 12 phone to the Government.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when operatives
of the EFCC arrested them for using identities of foreigners to defraud
both their local and foreign victims.
The press relase contains a grouped photo of the three 419ers:
court-jails-three-internet-fraudsters-in-ibadan
*************************************
22 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 33 Internet Fraud Suspects
Operatives of the Lagos and Enugu Zonal Commands of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, March 22, 2022,
arrested 33 internet fraud suspects in separate sting operation.
Seventeen of the suspects were arrested in Lagos while 16 others
were nabbed at Enugu.
The 17 suspects arrested in Lagos are Adefila Ayobami Ezekiel,
Anamene Somtochukwu, Nzeako Kosisochukwu Anthony, Afolabi Ayomide
Henry, Olatona Ayodeji Ebenezer, Obioho Ikenna Raphael, Famolayo
Femi Hammed, Mintah-Joshua Oluwafemi, Martins Victor Onuoha,
Babatunde Haruna Oluwaseyi, Taiwo Bolaji Kehinde, Ibeakolam
Goodluck, Onaolapo Iyanu Samuel, Jamiu Damilola Lawal, Adeyanju
Fawaz, AdejideSamuel and Obioho Obinna.
They were arrested in an Estate around the Ikota axis of Lagos
following credible intelligence received by the Commission on
the illegal activities of some individuals allegedly involved
in computer fraud.
Upon their arrest, 6 exotic vehicles, laptops and mobile devices
were recovered from them.
The 16 suspected fraudsters arrested in Enugu were apprehended
at Premier Layout axis of Enugu.
The suspects are Ovu Chimezie, Junior Gentle Pepple, Nwoye Paul,
Ezeoke Chimelue, Innocent Kenechukwu, Tochukwu Igbonekwu, Chigozie
Oguanya,Nwachukwu Daniel and Charles Duru Chibuzor. Others are
Anderson D. Ugochukwu , Chinedu Nwasu, Obiora Martin Ugonna, Nwabueze
Chidindu, Nwabueze Samuel Nnaemeka, Okechukwu Collins.D and Nwabueze
Benjamin Ikenna.
Preliminary investigation links them with suspected impersonation,
possession of fraudulent documents and defrauding unsuspecting
foreign nationals.
Items recovered from the suspects include one Lexus ES350 with
registration number EPE113 HB , a Mercedes Benz E350 with registration
number RSH 201 BP , another Mercedes Benz with registration number
UWN 338 MP and one Toyota Camry with registration number JRV 944 KL;
and several phones and laptops.
The suspects will be charged to Court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-33-internet-fraud-suspects
***************************************
21 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests Seven Undergraduates For Suspected Internet Fraud in Uyo
Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested seven undergraduates of the
University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for suspected internet fraud
in a sting operation.
They were arrested on March 19, 2021 at their hideout along Ring
Road, off Nwaniba Road, near Uniuyo permanent site.
The all- male suspects are: Emmanuel Chigoziem; Ubong Innocent;
Michael Ikechukwu Emekwuru; Samuel Edet Okon; Wisdom Edem;
Precious Ime Oyung and Moses Simon.
Items recovered from the suspects are: a Toyota Camry car;
three HP laptops and phones of different brands.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-seven-undergraduates-for-suspected-internet-fraud-in-uyo
***************************************
21 MAR 2022
Mechanic, Painter, Four Others Jailed For Cybercrime in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday March 21, 2022 secured the conviction
of six persons for offences bordering on cheating by personation
and other internet related fraud.
The convicts are: Ikudiase Olalekan Adesoji, a Mechanic who hails
from Aramoko, Ekiti West Local Government Area of Ekiti State;
Omilana Afeez Olamilekan, a painter from Iragbiji in Boripe Local
Government Area of Osun State; Samsondeen Oluwadamilola Okeniwun
from Abeokuta in Ogun State; Bashit Akorede Ganiyu from Oshogbo
in Osun State; Sikiru Mustapha who claimed to be a sex entertainer
living in the United States of America and Oladele Fawaz Olakanmi,
a Tailor who hails from Oshogbo, Osun State.
They were convicted and sentenced to various jail terms by Justice
Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court, Ilorin, having found them
guilty of the charges levelled against them by the EFCC.
The defendants were arraigned before the court on separate charges,
to which they pleaded guilty.
Following the guilty entered by the defendants, Sesan Ola and
Andrew Akoja who prosecuted the cases on behalf of the EFCC
reviewed the facts of the cases.
They tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants,
phones and laptops recovered from them, one Toyota Camry Car,
and fraudulent messages printed from their devices, which were
admitted in evidence.
The prosecuting counsel prayed to uphold the cases of the prosecution
and pronounced them guilty as charged.
Justice Sani in his judgement found merit in the cases and pronounced
the defendants guilty as charged.
The Judge sentenced Ikudiasi to one year imprisonment with option of
N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). He ordered that a 2008
Toyota Camry Car which he purchased with the proceed of crime and
one iPhone 11 Pro Max be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Omilana bagged six months imprisonment with option of N100,000
(One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). In addition, the convict is
to forfeit one Android Phone and the sum of N200,000 (Two Hundred
Thousand Naira Only) to the Federal Government. Beside this,
Omilana was ordered to restitute the sum of N484,000 to his
victims.
The Court also sentenced Samsondeen to one-year imprisonment with
option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). IPhone XR and
the sum of $585 (Five Hundred and Eighty Five Dollars) be forfeited
to the Federal Government.
Bashit on the other hand bagged six months imprisonment with option
of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). The Court ordered
that the iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone X,. HP Laptop and $1,050 (One
Thousand, Fifty Dollars) recovered from him be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
Justice Sani sentenced Sikiru to six months imprisonment with
option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) fine. The
convict would also forfeit one iPhone 11 which he used to
perpetrate the crime and $205 (Two Hundred and Five United
States Dollars) to the Federal Government.
Justice Sani also sentenced Oladele to six months imprisonment with
option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). The HP Laptop,
iPhone 11 Pro Max which were used to perpetrate the crime and $480
(Four Hundred and Eighty Dollars) be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a group photo of the five 419ers:
mechanic-painter-four-others-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
*********************************************
21 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 17 Suspected Yahoo-Yahoo Boys in Makurdi
The operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Saturday, March 19,
2022 arrested 17 internet fraud suspects known as Yahoo-Yahoo Boys,
in Makurdi, Benue State.
The suspects include: Samuel C., Uvande A., Joseph G., Ageva A.,
Emmanuel O., Ochiwu M., Dominic O, Ikpema S, Otse A. and Aondowase
T. Others are, Audu-war L., Terver J., Dav J., Moses V., Abdullahi
A., Agehson O., and Andoaver T.
They were arrested at different locations within Makurdi following
actionable intelligence on their alleged criminal activities.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones, laptops, and
several incriminating documents.
The suspects will be arraigned in Court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-17-suspected-yahoo-yahoo-boys-in-makurdi-2
*************************************
18 MAR 2022
Court Sends Five to Jail for Internet Fraud in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, March 18, 2022, secured the conviction
of five persons for offences bordering on internet related fraud
before Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting
in Ilorin.
The convicts are: Ololade Olabisi from Alimosho Local Government
Area of Lagos State, Issa Adebayo Shahajudeen, a native of Offa
in Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State, Segun Ajila Samson
from Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, Babatunde Olarewaju
Saheed from Ilorin and Abdulmatin Olawale Akibu from Akinyele Local
Government Area of Oyo State.
Prior to their conviction, the defendants had pleaded guilty to
the separate charge preferred against them by the anti-graft agency.
Upon their pleas, Innocent Mbachie, Aliyu Adebayo and Andrew Akoja
reviewed the facts of the cases and tendered phones, laptops, and
fraudulent messages printed from defendants' device and were admitted
in evidence.
The prosecuting counsel urged the court to consider the facts and
circumstances of the cases, the guilty pleas by the defendants,
their extra judicial statements and convict them as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Sani said the prosecution has established
a prima-facie case against the defendants and convicted them.
The judge sentenced the defendants to various jail terms, ranging
from six months to one year imprisonment with option of fine. The
judge also ordered that all items used as instrumentality of the
crime by the convicts including phones and laptops and monies raised
as restitution be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a group photo of all five 419ers:
court-sends-five-to-jail-for-internet-fraud-in-ilorin
************************************
18 MAR 2022
EFCC Charges Students to Steer Clear of Cyber Crimes
The Kano Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE Farouq
Dogondaji has charged students across the country to steer clear
of cybercrimes and related offences.
He gave the charge on Thursday, March 17, 2022, when students of
Prime College, Kano came on an Excursion to the Kano Zonal Command
of the EFCC. According to him, peer pressure and bad influences
are responsible for indulgence of youths in cybercrimes and
students should always choose their friends wisely and carefully.
"When you get admitted into the university, you are bound to meet
people with different backgrounds, when you do, try to be careful
with peer advice because one of the reasons why youth engage in cybercrime,
is peer advice. When you meet some people who will be telling you that
you don’t need to depend on your parents, and tell you to start doing
like big boys, they will eventually lure you into the activities of
these cyber criminals." he said.
Dogondaji further urged them to embrace hard work and avoid temptation
and never resort to crime in order to make money "because in the end,
you will be caught and your future will be affected by the outcome of
the crime".
In urging them to educate their parents about what they learnt at
the EFCC, the EFCC commander implored the students to tell their
loved ones to keep their personal banking details to themselves,
so as not to fall victims of illegal withdrawals which is on the
rise nowadays.
The students were later taken around the EFCC Sections and facilities.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-charges-students-to-steer-clear-of-cyber-crimes
**************************************
18 MAR 2022
Court Convicts Eight Cybercriminals in Uyo
The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday March 16, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of eight internet fraudsters before Justice Rosemary Dugbo Oghoghorie
of the Federal High Court, Calabar.
Sunday Ifeanyi Iheanacho, Solomon Wisdom Chiagozie, Maurice Ingbe Ebiale,
Ikechukwu Nzebuchi Miracle, Ahmed Sunny, Awoyugno Femi Kolade, Ikegbu
Isidore Chiebuka and Uwaiwu Duke were convicted and sentenced to one year
imprisonment each after pleading guilty to charges bordering on criminal
impersonation and obtaining by false pretense, contrary to the provisions
of Section 22(2)(b)(i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc)
Act 2015.
As a result of their guilty pleas, the prosecuting counsel Joshua .O.
Abolarin prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants in line
with Section 270 of Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). But
the defence counsel, Koko Essien, Innocent .O. Eze, E.B Eton, J.J Undiandeye
and Victor James pleaded for leniency and urged the court to impose fines
on the defendants, instead of imprisonment.
After listening to the arguments and pleas by counsel, Justice Oghoghorie
convicted and sentenced all eight defendants to one year imprisonment each,
with various options of fine. The court also ordered that they restitute
their victims.
While Ifeanyi, Wisdom, Miracle, Ebiale and Duke were given the option of
N200,000 fine each; Ahmed, Kolade and Chiebuka were offered the option of
N250,000 fine. The defendant were ordered to restitute their victims of
sums ranging from $500, N200, 000, $4,000, N200, 000 and $1,000.
The convicts were arrested on Tuesday March 1, 2022 during a sting operation
at Parliamentary Extension, Calabar in Cross Rivers State.
The press release contains a not really viewable group photo of all eight 419ers:
court-convicts-eight-cybercriminals-in-uyo
************************************
17 MAR 2022
EFCC Secures Four Cybercrime Convictions in Oyo
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal
Command, on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, secured the conviction and
sentencing of four internet fraudsters before Justice Uche Agomoh
of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State on separate
one count charge each.
The convicts are: Owolabi Quadri Damilola, Okeowo Sunday Olakunle,
Fidimaye Habeeb Olanrewaju and Oluwalomola Emmanuel Oluwafemi.
They were arraigned for fraudulent representation, an offence which
is contrary to Section 22 (2) and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b)
(iv) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act 2015.
Upon their arraignment, they pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred
against them.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Mabas Mabur prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendants as charged.
Justice Agomoh thereafter, convicted and sentenced Owolabi Quadri
Damilola to nine months imprisonment; Okeowo Sunday Olakunle to eight
months imprisonment; Fidimaye Habeeb Olanrewaju to six months jail
term, and Oluwalomola Emmanuel to five months imprisonment.
The court also ordered that the convicts pay the sum of N1, 001, 457.78
(One Million, One thousand, Four Hundred and Fifty Seven Naira, Seventy
Eighty Kobo) and $1500 USD (One Thousand United States Dollars) in restitution.
Also, one red Hyundai Velostar car, five phones and one black Series
6 Smart wristwatch were ordered forfeited to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The press release contains of small photo of each 419er:
efcc-secures-four-cybercrime-convictions-in-oyo
***********************************
17 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests Church Founder Wanted By FBI for Wire Fraud in Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested Kelechi Vitalis Anozie, a suspect
on the watch list of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI.
He was arrested on March 10, 2022, following credible intelligence
linking him to alleged conspiracy, wire fraud and money laundering.
Anozie and four other suspects: Valentine Iro, Ekene Ekechukwu (alias
Ogedi Power), Bright Azubuike (alias Bright Bauer Azubuike) and Ifeanyi
Junior, are alleged to have defrauded one F.F who lives in Illinois,
United States, the sum of $135,800 US Dollars and another $47,000.
Anozie is the Founder of Praying City Church located in Owerri, Imo State.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-church-founder-wanted-by-fbi-for-wire-fraud-in-enugu
**********************************
17 MAR 2022
Fake America Contractor Bags Six Months Imprisonment for Cybercrime in Kwara
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin
on Thursday, March 17, 2022 sentenced 24-year-old Taiwo Oluwapelumi
Emmanuel from Ibadan, Oyo State to six months imprisonment for
offences one-count charge bordering on impersonation.
He allegedly posed as a citizen of the United States of America to
defraud unsuspecting victims.
The defendant was among the suspected internet fraudsters arrested
in Ogbomosho area of Oyo State on October 26, 2021 during a sting
operations by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC.
The defendant in his various chats claimed to be a contractor and
businessman based in the United States of America, a decoy he employed
to swindle his victims.
The charge against him reads, "That you, TAIWO OLUWAPELUMI EMMANUEL,
sometime between February and March, 2021 at Ogbomosho, within the
Judicial Division of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, did fraudulently
impersonate one David Williams George; an American, with the intent
to gain advantage for yourself from one Mindy whom you chatted vide your
created gmail; davidwilly1205@gmail.com and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (I) of the Cybercrime Prohibition
prevention Etc.) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv)
of the same Act."
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Based on the guilty plea entered by the defendant, counsel to the
EFCC, Andrew Akoja, reviewed the facts of the case and tendered one
iphone X, one Lenovo Laptop and the extra-judicial statement of the
defendant as well as fraudulent messages printed from his device,
which were admitted in evidence.
Akoja, thereafter urged the court to convict the defendant as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Sani said the court was satisfied with the
evidence adduced by the prosecution and pronounced Taiwo guilty of
the charge.
The judge sentenced the defendants to six months imprisonment with
option of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira only) and
ordered that the iphone X and Lenovo Laptop, which he used to perpetrate
the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
fake-america-contractor-bags-six-months-imprisonment-for-cybercrime-in-kwara
**************************************
17 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 11 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Enugu
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Enugu Zonal Command on Tuesday March 15, 2022, arrested 11 suspected
internet fraudsters in the Emene axis of Enugu State.
The suspects: Asikagu Chunedum; Danis Chukwueuka; Ebeye Nnamdi;
Iruke Amarachukwu; Nwani Chinemerem; Okwor Ifeanyichi; Onanga Emmanuel;
Onyia Peter Ifeanyi; Ude Emmanuel, Adabe Emmanuel and Ebube Nnaji Godwin
were arrested based on verified intelligence by the EFCC.
Preliminary investigations linked them with suspected impersonation,
possession of fraudulent documents and defrauding unsuspecting foreign
nationals.
Items recovered from the suspects include: phones and laptops of
different brands; a Toyota Camry car and a Toyota Venza car.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-11-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
*****************************************
16 MAR 2022
Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters 10 Years
Two Internet fraudsters: Enabonkpe Robert and Omorovbiye Best
Osemwegie, were on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, jailed by Justice
C.A Obiozor and Justice F.A Olubanjo of the Federal High Court
sitting in Benin- City, Edo State and Asaba, Delta State respectively.
They were sentenced to five years imprisonment each for internet-
related crimes.
Robert (alias Engineer Eric Cheng) was arraigned on one -count
charge by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC for fraudulent
impersonation.
The lone- count charge read: "That you Enabonkpe Robert (alias
Engineer Eric Cheng) or about the 16th day of May, 2021 at No.
22 Police Station Road, Agenebode, Edo State, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, fraudulently impersonated one Engineer Eric
Cheng, a white man, by sending the following Gmail addresses
Robertbliss27@gmail.com rulemaxwell10@gmail.com and unitednationsyrial72@gmail.com
and fraudulently represented yourself as a white man from California in
United State of America, the representation you knew to be false and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (i) and (ii) of the
Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under
Section 22(2) (b)(iv) of the same Act".
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, Ibrahim Mohammed, prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Obiozor convicted and sentenced the defendant to five years
imprisonment with an option of fine of N 500,000 ( Five Hundred Thousand
Naira only).
In addition, the judge ordered the defendant to forfeit his mobile
phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing
to be of good behavior henceforth.
In a similar development, Justice Olubanjo of the Federal High Court
sitting in Asaba, Delta State convicted and sentenced Osemwegie to five
years imprisonment for fraud.
The one- count charge read : "that you Omorovbiye Best Osemwegie sometime
in November 2020 at Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court with intent to defraud, sent electronic message which
materially misrepresented your identity to Wang Jun, a Chinese woman upon
which she relied and suffered financial loss in a sum of $3,000,00 and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (ii)of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22(2)
(b)(iv) of the same Act".
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, I.K Agwai prayed the court
to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Olubanjo convicted and sentenced the defendant to five years
imprisonment with an option of fine of N500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand
Naira only).
The judge also ordered the convict to forfeit the balance of money in
his bank account, one Mercedes Benz C300 2015 model and a mobile phone
to the Federal Government of Nigeria. He is also to undertake in writing
to be of good behavior henceforth.
The convicts' journey to the Correctional Centre started when they were
arrested by operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC for impersonating
foreigners to commit internet- related crimes. Robert impersonated an American
while Osemwegie impersonated a Chinese.
The press release contains a photo of both 419ers:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-10-years
**************************************
16 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 13 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested thirteen ( 13) suspected
internet fraudsters at the Nsukka and Emene axes of Enugu State.
They were arrested on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 in a sting operation.
Twelve of the suspects believed to be involved in internet- related
offences are: Chinaza Onyekwelu; David Sharon; Igwenagu Chimezie;
nachi Collins, Noble Nwodo and Okoye Ebuka. Others are: Onaga Divine;
Richie Samson; Ugwu Chideru; Victor Sopuluchi, Nwajie Chidubem Eric
and Nnamani Chukwuebuka.
They were arrested based on some verified intelligence by the EFCC.
Items recovered from them include: five laptops; phones and a silver-
coloured Lexus car with registration number: FST 823 GD.
The suspects will soon be charged to court.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-13-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
*************************************
16 MAR 2022
Man Jailed Six Months for Attempted Cyber Fraud in Kwara
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday March 16, 2022 secured the conviction of one Adeshina
Michael Oluwafemi from Ekiti State, for posing as a white man in an attempt
to defraud his unsuspecting victims.
Adeshina was convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment by Justice
Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin, after the judge
found him guilty of one count charge levelled against him by the Commission.
The charge reads: "That you, Adeshina Michael Oluwafemi (aka Viki Ron)
Sometime in May 2020 or thereabout at Ilorin, Kwara State, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court attempted to commit an offence
of cheating by personation by pretending and representing yourself to
be a white man called Viki Ron who was in relationship with a white Woman,
Carol Richard as it is contained in your gmail account: ronv553@gmail.comand
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 95 of
the Penal Code Laws of Northern Nigeria."
The defendant pleaded guilty when the charge was read to him.
Following his guilty plea, counsel to the EFCC, Aliyu Adebayo, called a
witness who is an operative of the EFCC to review the facts of the case.
The witness narrated how the defendant was arrested based on credible
intelligence. The witness tendered the defendant’s Huawei Phone, fraudulent
messages printed from his device as well as his extra-judicial statements
and were admitted in evidence.
Adebayo, thereafter urged the court to consider the plea of the defendant,
the extra-judicial statements and all the exhibits tendered convict the
defendant as charged.
In his judgment, Justice Akinpelu said the court was satisfied with the
case of the prosecution and pronounced Adeshina guilty as charged.
The judge sentenced the defendant to six months imprisonment with option
of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). The court also ordered
the forfeiture of the convict's Huawei Phone which was used to perpetrate
the crime to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-jailed-six-months-for-attempted-cyber-fraud-in-kwara
*************************************
15 MAR 2022
Three Yahoo Boys Convicted in Oyo
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State,
on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 convicted and sentenced the trio of
Oyeleke Mubarak Oladipupo, Taiwo Opeyemi Oluwaseyi and Babatunde
Peter Kolade for their fraudulent cyber activities.
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC arraigned the convicts on separate charges,
and they pleaded "guilty" to the charges when read to them.
Justice Agomoh thereafter, convicted and sentenced Oladipupo to
seven months imprisonment, Taiwo to four imprisonment and Babatunde
to three jail term.
Furthermore, the court ordered that Oladipupo restitute the sum
of $700USD (Seven Hundred United States Dollars) and forfeit one
Samsung S9 to the Federal government of Nigeria.
Also, Taiwo was ordered to restitute the sum of $300USD (Three
Hundred United States Dollars), and forfeits three mobile phones
to the Federal government of Nigeria.
The court further ordered that the sums of $600USD, N2.2million,
N1.4million and N37, 737. 31 found in Babatunde Peter Kolade's
banks accounts be paid to his victims as restitution. He also
forfeits one iPhone 12 Pro Max to the Federal government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of all three 419ers:
three-yahoo-boys-convicted-in-oyo
***************************************
15 MAR 2022
Two Cybercriminals Jailed in Oyo
Courts in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday, March 14, 2022 convicted and
sentenced the duo of Ademuyiwa Basit Olamilekan and Opeyemi John Abiola
on a separate one count charge each which bordered on cybercrime.
Olamilekan was arraigned before Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High
Court, while Abiola was docked before Justice Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo State
High Court.
The charge against Olamilekan reads: "That you, Ademuyiwa Basit Olamilekan
(aka Janet Brown) between May and August, 2021, at Ibadan Judicial Division
of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud, fraudulently impersonated
an American lady via your email address: sinkbetty2@gmail.com, a document
containing false pretence, to wit: sending the photograph of a white
American female: wherein you represented yourself as a white female who
goes by the name of "Jenet Brown,”" one Mike Good an American man with
whom you claimed to be in love and ready to marry him, thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) and punishable under Section
22 (2) (b) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015."
The charge against Abiola reads: "That you, Opeyemi John Abiola on or
about 8th November, 2021, at Ibadan within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court with intent to defraud, impersonated Elizabeth Wilson
a white woman from United States of America, an offence contrary to
Section 484 of the Criminal Code of Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000."
Upon their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Murtala Usman and Sanusi
Galadanchi reviewed the facts of the cases and prayed the courts to
convict and sentence them as charged.
Justice Agomoh, thereafter convicted and sentenced Ademuyiwa to five
months imprisonment and ordered that he restitute $600USD (Six Hundred
United State Dollars), and forfeit one iPhone X mobile phone to the
Federal Government.
Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced Abiola to six months community
service. Also, the court ordered him to pay $790USD (Seven Hundred
and Ninety United States Dollars) in restitution, forfeit the sum of
N260,000.00 (Two Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) domiciled in his
United Bank for Africa bank account and one Toyota Camry 2014 model
car to the Federal government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of both 419ers:
two-cybercriminals-jailed-in-oyo
********************************************
15 MAR 2022
Farmer, One Other Jailed for Cyber Fraud in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 secured the conviction
of two persons over offences bordering on cheating by personation,
love scam and other internet related fraud.
The convicts are Abdulkareem Jamiu who claimed to be a farmer and
one Zakariyha Ibrahim from Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The duo of Jamiu and Ibrahim who were prosecuted before Justices Adenike
Akinpelu and Sikiru Oyinloye respectively on separate charges, pleaded
guilty to their respective charge.
Following their guilty pleas, Innocent Mbachie and Aliyu Adebayo who p
rosecuted the cases on behalf of the Commission called a witness each
to review the facts of the cases. The witnesses who are operatives
of EFCC told the presiding Justices how credible intelligence led
to the arrest of defendants.
The witnesses tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants,
mobile phones and several fraudulent messages printed from their devices
and were admitted in evidence.
The counsels told the courts to consider the plea of guilt entered by
the defendants, the extra-judicial statements and all the exhibits tendered
to convict them as charged.
The two Justices agreed that the EFCC had successfully established
the cases against the defendants and pronounced each of them guilty.
Justice Akinpelu sentenced Jamiu to six months imprisonment with option
of fine of N150,000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only). The judge
also ordered that one iphone XR which he used to perpetrate the crime
and the sum of N7,333,192.8 (Seven Million, Three Hundred and Thirty-Seven
Thousand, One Hundred and Ninety-Two Naira, Eight Kobo) which he benefited
from his unlawful activities be forfeited to the Federal Government.
On the other hand, Justice Oyinloye sentenced Ibrahim to six months
imprisonment with option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand
Naira Only). The court ordered that convict’s infinix phone recovered
from him at the point of arrest and the sum of fifty Canadian dollars
which he brought as restitution be forfeited to the Federal Government
The press release contains a photo of both 419ers:
farmer-one-other-jailed-for-cyber-fraud-in-ilorin
*******************************************
14 MAR 2022
Man Bags Two Years Imprisonment in Lafia for Facebook Scam
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday, March 14 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of one Tarbee Destiny Tyodoo before Justice N. I.
Afolabi of the Federal High Court, Lafia, Nasarawa State on one
count charge for his involvement in Internet fraud.
The charge reads: "That you Tarbee Destiny Tyodoo sometime in January,
2022 in Makurdi, Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
directly made false statement on your Facebook dating scam account knowing
same to be false, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
22 (3) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention etc) Act, 2015 and
unishable under the same Section of the Act".
The defendant pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
Upon his plea, the prosecution counsel, G. G. Chia-Yakua prayed
the Court to convict and sentence him as charged.
Justice Afolabi convicted and sentenced Destiny to two years
imprisonment with an option of fine of N500, 000.00.
He is to forfeit one Laptop, to be sold by auction by the Registrar
of the Court with the supervision of the EFCC and the proceeds, paid
into the Treasury Single Account of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-bags-two-years-imprisonment-in-lafia-for-facebook-scam
********************************************
14 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests Suspected International “Catcher” On FBI List, Osondu Igwilo,
Three Others for $100m Fraud
It was the end of road, on Thursday, March 11, 2022 for one Osondu Victor
Igwilo, who had been on the watch list of the Federal Bureau of Investigation,
FBI, since 2018, when operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Lagos Command, swooped on him.
Fifty-two year-old Igwilo, who is the alleged leader of a criminal network
of "catchers" was arrested alongside Okafor Nnamdi Chris, Nwodu Uchenna Emmaunel
and John Anazo Achukwu at a studio in the Sangotedo area of Lagos for an alleged
fraud, money laundering and identity theft to the tune of about $100m.
Before their arrest, Igwilo and his accomplices had allegedly been involved
in an advance-fee scheme that involved false promises of investment funding
by individuals who impersonated some United States of America, USA, bank
officials in person and via the internet.
Investigation revealed that those who fell victims of the suspects' criminal
activities were asked to make certain payments before they could receive their
funding.
It was also revealed that proceeds of the scheme were allegedly laundered through
U.S. bank accounts and diverted back to the alleged perpetrators in Nigeria.
Consequently, Igwilo was placed on the FBI watch list, following a criminal
complaint filed against him in the United States District Court, Houston,
Texas in December 2016.
Following their arrest, five houses located in choice areas of Lagos were
recovered from Igwilo.
The suspects will soon be charged to court.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-suspected-international-catcher-on-fbi-list-osondu-igwilo-three-others-for-100m-fraud
**********************************************
11 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests 33 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested thirty three (33) suspected
internet fraudsters for alleged internet fraud.
The suspects are John Oshogbo Ekpo, Samuel Afolabi Micheal, Erezi
Sydney, Oghenemaro Ayoola, Nathaniel Joseph, Seye Victor Abolaji,
Abdulrasheed Mayowa, Ojo Abiola, Damilola Afolabi, Innocent Alidu,
Coker Taiwo, Ajiboye Odunayo, Olamilekan Agbaje, Wasiu Oluwasegun,
Olonade Ridwan and Lucky John.
Others are Olonade Wasiu, Babatunde Asibojo, Adekunle Nurudeen,
Balogun Seun, Igwe Ossi, Oruen Daniel, Abiodun Hammed, Tizhe Lucky,
Oghenekome Louis, Sodiha Sanya, Damilare Owotutu, Oladipupo Muyideen,
Akintunde Olufemi, Afolabi Oluwasanmi, Ibrahim Salisu, John Eze
and Asubiodo Jelili.
They were arrested on March 9, 2022 at Rotimi Williams Farm Estate,
Ogba, Lagos, following credible intelligence received by the Commission
on the illegal activities of some individuals allegedly involved in
computer fraud.
Upon their arrest, fourteen (14) exotic vehicles, laptops and mobile
devices were recovered from them.
The suspects will be charged to court once investigations have been
concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-33-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
**************************************
10 MAR 2022
Cybercrime: Man Bags One Year Jail Term in Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on March 10, 2022, secured the conviction
and sentencing of one Ajibola Azeez Ololade before Justice
O.O. Abike-Fadipe of a Special Offences Court sitting in
Ikeja, Lagos for offence bordering on possession of documents
containing false pretence contrary to and punishable under
Section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
He was accused of using fraudulent documents to perpetrate
internet fraud.
He was arraigned on a one-count charge, which reads: "Ajibola
Azeez Ololade on 11th day of November 2021 in Lagos within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court knowingly had in your
possession a document containing false pretences to wit "WHATSAPP
CONVERSATION" wherein you engaged in a chat with one SOJ for an
act of cybercrime which information you knew to be false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
The prosecuting counsel, Kufre Uduak, thereafter gave a review
of the facts against the defendant and prayed the Court to convict
him as charged and to sentence him accordingly.
Justice Abike-Fadipe, thereafter, pronounced him guilty as charged
and gave him an opportunity to address the Court.
Pleading with the Court to temper justice with mercy, the defendant
said: "I appear today because of a mistake I made three years ago.
I deeply regret my involvement, and I beseech this Court of Law to
temper justice with mercy. If given a second chance, I will turn
a new leave and never engage in such again."
Following his plea, Justice Abike-Fadipe sentenced him to one year
in prison, but gave him an option of N500,000 fine with 40hours
community service which must be supervised by officers of the
Correctional Facility. His iPhone 12 Pro Max and An Apple computer
were also ordered forfeited to the Federal Government.
cybercrime-man-bags-one-year-jail-term-in-lagos
*****************************************
10 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests Nine Internet Fraud Suspects in Enugu
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Enugu Command, on Thursday March 10, 2022 arrested nine suspected
internet fraudsters at the Premier Layout,Ogui Nike axis of Enugu
State.
The suspects: Napoleon Providence, Udenta Arinze, Chidiebere Jonas,
Ezeh Obinna, Imonikphawae Lucky, Arinze Ugochukwu, Anieze Sylvester,
Okonkwo Ifeanyi Evans and Ogugua Sopuruchukwu were all arrested based
on verified intelligence which links them fraudulent impersonation
and other forms of cybercrimes targeting unsuspecting foreign nationals.
Items recovered from the suspects include several phones, 5 laptops,
a Mercedes Benz car, Lexus RX330 and a Toyota Camry 2009.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-nine-internet-fraud-suspects-in-enugu
************************************
8 MAR 2022
Another Four Internet Fraudsters Jailed in Oyo
Justice Uche Agomoh of a Federal High Court, sitting in Ibadan,
Oyo State, today March 8, 2022, convicted and sentenced the trio
of Tirimisiyu Idowu Taoreed, Adebisi Dolapo Adetayo and Shittu
Ganiu Olamilekan to different jail terms cybercrime.
The convicts pleaded "guilty" to the one count charge each for
the offence of fraudulent impersonation preferred against them
by the EFCC.
The charge against Timisiriyu Idowu Taoreed reads: "That you,
Timisiriyu Idowu Taoreed 'M', sometime in 2021 within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently impersonated
one BJ Vilalobos via your Google Gmail account with an address
bornjeje8@gmail.com with intent to gain monetary advantage for
yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention,
etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (2) (iv) of
the same Act."
The charge against Adetayo Dolapo Adetayo reads: "That you,
Adebisi Dolapo Adetayo sometime in 2020, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court fraudulently impersonated one Beatrice
Tina via your Google Gmail with address beatricetina333@gmail.com
with intent to gain monetary advantage for yourself and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable
under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act."
The charge against Shittu Ganiu Olamilekan reads: "That you, Shittu
Ganiu Olamilekan 'M', on or about the 11th day of February, 2021 within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently impersonated
one Bill McDonald via your Gmail account you created with an address
janetdokan@gmail.com with intent to gain monetary advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of
the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable
under Section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the same Act."
Following their pleas, prosecution counsel, Oyelakin Oyediran tendered
as evidence, documents printed from the convicts’ emails, iPhones and
laptops, as well as their confessional statements which were admitted
as exhibits by the court. He prayed the court to convict and sentence
he defendants as charged.
Consequently, they were convicted and sentenced.
Timisiriyu Idowu Taoreed was sentenced to five months imprisonment,
Adetayo Dolapo Adetayo to six months imprisonment while Shittu Ganiu
Olamilekan bagged eleven months jail term.
The convicts were ordered to pay the sum of $3, 702USD (Three Thousand,
Seven Hundred and Two United States Dollars), N127, 080.33 (One Hundred
and Twenty-Seven Thousand, Eighty Naira, Thirty Three Kobo) in restitution
and forfeit four mobile phones, one MacBook and one silver HP Laptop to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
another-four-internet-fraudsters-jailed-in-oyo
**********************************************
8 MAR 2022
Fake America Real Estate Manager, One Other Jailed for Love Scam in Ilorin
Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court sitting in
Ilorin on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 convicted and sentenced two persons
to six months imprisonment each for offences bordering on internet
related fraud.
The convicts were prosecuted on one count separate charge by the
Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC.
They are Kamaldeen Yusuf, a self-styled Real Estate Manager based i
n United States of America and one Sulyman Ridwan Omotosho from I
lorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The duo of Kamaldeen and Sulyman were among the thirty suspected
internet fraudsters arrested in Malete, Moro Local Government Area
of Kwara State on September 19, 2021 by the operatives of the EFCC
during a sting operation, following intelligence reports received
by the Commission.
Upon arraignment, the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charge.
Following their guilty pleas, Innocent Mbachie and Rasheedat Alao
who prosecuted the two cases on behalf of the Commission called two
witnesses to review the facts of the cases. The witnesses, who are
operatives of the EFCC tendered in evidence several incriminating
documents printed from defendants devices, their extra judicial
statements and mobile phones used to perpetrate the crime.
The counsel urged the court to consider the evidence placed before
it, the plea of guilt and all the exhibits tendered and uphold the
case of the prosecution.
Delivering Judgment on the two cases, Justice Akinpelu said that
the court had carefully considered the case of the prosecution and
found merit in the two cases.
The judge, thereafter sentenced Kamaldeen and Sulyman to six months
imprisonment each with option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand
Naira Only) each. She also ordered the forfeiture of the mobile phones
ecovered from the convicts to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
fake-america-real-estate-manager-one-other-jailed-for-love-scam-in-ilorin
*****************************************
8 MAR 2022
Five Fraudsters Land in Jail for Cyber Fraud in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Commission,
EFCC, on Monday, March 7, 2022 secured the conviction of five persons
for offences bordering on cybercrime and other internet-related fraud.
They are Laoshe Abdul Olajide, Akinbohun Oluwatobiloba Stephen from
Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Hammed Quadri Babatunde
from Olorunda Local Government Area of Osun State, Lawal Opeyemi Faruq
from Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State and one David
Ayodeji Ezekiel.
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court in Ilorin convicted
and sentenced the defendants to various jail terms after the court
found them guilty of the charges brought against them by the EFCC.
The defendants, who were arraigned on separate charges pleaded guilty
to their respective charges.
Following their guilty pleas, Aliyu Adebayo, Andrew Akoja and Rasheedat
Alao who prosecuted the cases on behalf of the Commission urged the court
to pronounce the defendants guilty as charged and sentence them.
Justice Sani sentenced Laoshe to three months imprisonment on count 1
and 2 with option of fine of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only) and
ordered that the Apple iPhone x6 which was used as instrumentality
of crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Akinbohun was sentenced to one year imprisonment
with option of fine of N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira
Only). He was ordered to forfeit an Apple IPhone 6, Techno Spark 5,
$100 (One Hundred Dollars) and N20,000 (Twenty Thousand Naira Only)
recovered from him to the Federal Government.
Justice Sani also sentenced Hammed to six months imprisonment with
option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only). He
ordered that the convict's iPhone X, iphone 11, blue laptop, which
were used as instrumentality of the crime and the sum of $110 (One
Hundred and Ten Dollars), which was a proceed of his unlawful activities
be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Lawal was sentenced to one year imprisonment with option
of fine of N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only). The
court ordered the forfeiture of one iPhone 13 which he used to perpetrate
the crime, a Lexus 250 car with chassis number JTHBK262085054547, $200
(Two Hundred Dollars and N500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only)
to the Federal Government.
The judge also imposed a prison term of one year on David with option
of N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only) and ordered the
forfeiture of one Toyota Corolla 2004 Car, Samsung S10, iPhone X, one
red laptop and the sum of N231,498.99 domiciled in his GT bank account
to the Federal Government.
five-fraudsters-land-in-jail-for-cyber-fraud-in-ilorin
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5 MAR 2022
Bawa Charges Youths to be Diligent, Shun Crime
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa on Saturday, 5 March 2022,
enjoined Nigerian youths to be diligent and hardworking as
the acceptable means to becoming successful.
The EFCC boss gave the charge at an event organized by ENACOVID19
for repentant commercial sex workers, orphans and victims of domestic
violence as well as other vulnerable persons.
Bawa who spoke through the Head of Creative Communications Unit of
the Public Affairs Department of the Commission, Nwanyinma Okeanu,
encouraged the participants to shun crime and be diligent in their
pursuit. According to him, obedience, hard work, creativity, belief
in God and belief in one’s self are the keys to becoming successful
in Nigeria.
"There is no cutting corners in becoming successful, you must be
ready to work hard and decide within yourself that you want to be
successful and follow your dreams diligently," he said.
He commended the organizers for helping vulnerable Nigerians to do
something meaningful which will in turn help them stay out of crime.
The Convener and Executive Director, Ben Onwudinjo said ENACOVID19
is an advocacy, teaching, empowerment and scholarship organization
targeted at the vulnerable in the society. He pointed out that what
his organization is doing is helping as many Nigerians as possible
to make something meaningful out of life, through vocational training
in bakery, tailoring, photography etc. "Our plan is to also teach,
prepare and give scholarships to participants to write the 2022
May/June NECO and NABTEC exams", he added.
The press release contains a photo:
bawa-charges-youths-to-be-diligent-shun-crime
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4 MAR 2022
EFCC Operatives Arrest 22 Suspected Cybercriminals in Abuja
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Abuja Zonal Command on Thursday, March 3, 2022, arrested 22 suspected
internet fraudsters in a sting operation. They were fished out from
their hideouts in the Kubwa and Kurudu suburbs of Abuja, following
credible intelligence on their alleged criminal activities.
The suspects comprising one female and twenty one males, are within
the age range, 17 and 28 years.
The intelligence links them to various forms of cybercrimes including
love scam, business email compromise, job scam, visa scam and lottery
scam.
Upon their arrest, 10 cars were seized from the suspects comprising 2
Lexus SUV’s, 2 Lexus Sedan, 3 Mercedes Benz C Class, 1 Toyota Corolla,
1 Toyota Camry and 1 Honda Accord.
Also recovered are over 10 laptops and 50 mobile phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is completed
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-operatives-arrest-22-suspected-cybercriminals-in-abuja
**************************************
4 MAR 2022
Jebba Farmer, Designer, Four Others Jailed For Cyber Fraud in Ilorin
Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court in Ilorin on Friday,
March 4, 2022, convicted and sentenced six persons charged for internet
-related fraud by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, to various jail terms The convicts include:
Abdulrahaman Ridwan, who claimed to be a farmer at Jebba, Moro Local
Government Area of Kwara State; Yinus Lateef Shola, a fashion designer
from Omupo in Ifelodun Local Government Area of the State and Jimoh Ahmed
Adeola from Owo in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State. Others are
Yinus Muiz Iyanda, Ridwan Oladimeji from Ilorin West Local Government
Area of Kwara State and one Gideon Thomas.
The defendants, who were arraigned on separate charges, pleaded guilty
to their respective counts.
Following their pleas, Aliyu A. Adebayo, Sesan Ola and Rasheedat Alao
who prosecuted the cases on behalf of the Commission drew the attention
of the court to the admittance of guilt by the defendants and their
confessional statements and urged the court to convict and sentence
the defendants.
In his judgment, Justice Sani said the court was satisfied with the
evidence adduced by the prosecution and pronounced the defendants guilty
of their respective charges.
The judge sentenced Abdulrahaman Ridman to six months imprisonment with
option of fine of N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only)
and ordered that a Toyota Camry 2013 with registration number FST280GK
which he purchased with proceeds of crime as well as his iPhone 7+ which
was used to perpetrate the crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The court also imposed a term of one year imprisonment with option of
fine of N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only) on Yinus
Lateef Shola and ordered that the $230 (Two Hundred and Thirty United
States Dollars), which he raised as restitution, one Apple Iphone 11
and HP laptop which were used as instrumentality of the crime be
forfeited to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Justice Sani sentenced Jimoh Ahmed to one year imprisonment
with option of fine of N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira)
and ordered the forfeiture of his grey Mercedes Benz which was purchased
with the proceeds of crime, Apple Iphone XR, and Apple Iphone 12 pro
to the Federal Government.
In the same vein, Yinus Muiz Iyanda bagged six months imprisonment
with option of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only) and
would forfeit the iPhone 6 which was recovered from him at the point
of arrest to the Federal Government.
For Rilwan, the Judge sentenced him to a prison term of one year with
option of N250,0000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only). The
court equally ordered the forfeiture of the convict’s iPhone which
he used to perpetrate the crime.
Justice Sani sentenced Gideon to six months imprisonment with option
of fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira Only), and ordered that
the sum of $500 (Five Hundred Dollars) which he raised as restitution
and his phone that was used as instrumentality of the crime be forfeited
to the Federal Government. Additionally, the convict would return $1,145
(One Thousand, One Hundred and Forty Five Dollars), part of what he
benefited for his victims.
jebba-farmer-designer-four-others-jailed-for-cyber-fraud-in-ilorin
****************************************
3 MAR 2022
Ogun Boy Jailed in Kwara for Love Scam
A 21 years old Adeogun Timileyin Feranmi who hails from
Abule-Egba, Abeokuta in Odeda Local Government Area of
Ogun State has been convicted and sentenced to six months
imprisonment for offences bordering on internet related
scam and personation.
The conviction followed the arraignment of the defendant
by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on one count charge before Justice
Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court sitting in
Ilorin.
Feranmi was among the thirty internet fraud suspects arrested
during a sting operation by operatives of the EFCC on September
19, 2021 at Malete, Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State
following intelligence reports over their alleged involvements
in internet fraud related offences.
The charge reads:
"That you, Adeogun Timileyin Feranmi on or about the 20th day
of October 2019 in Ilorin, Kwara State within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did cheat by personation when you pretended
to be one Hannah Sanabria via your gmail address hannahsanabriah@gmail.com
and in that guise communicated with one Reus Saints whom you induced
to part with property to with: $1500 vide bitcoin and thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 321 of the Penal Code Law and punishable
under Section 324 of the same Law"
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
Following his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Rasheedat Alao, called a
witness, whom she led in evidence to review the facts of the case.
The witness, who is an operative of the Commission narrated the
circumstances that led to the arrest of the defendant and tendered
as exhibits one HP laptop and several fraudulent documents printed
out from the defendant's device, all which were admitted in evidence.
Alao, thereafter prayed the court to take judicial notice of the guilty
plea entered by the defendant, his extra judicial statements as well
as exhibit tendered and convict him as charged.
Justice Akinpelu in her judgment on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 upheld
the submission of the prosecution that the EFCC had proved its case
beyond reasonable doubt. The judge sentenced Feranmi to six months
imprisonment with option of fine of N150,000 (One Hundred and Fifty
Thousand Naira Only). The court also ordered the forfeiture of the
HP laptop recovered from the defendant to the Federal Government.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er:
ogun-boy-jailed-in-kwara-for-love-scam
****************************************
2 MAR 2022
Shun Internet Fraud, Bawa Charges Corps Members
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, Abdulrasheed Bawa has again called on youth to
embrace hard work and shun economic and financial crimes.
He stated this today, March 2, 2022 while delivering a
lecture on the Role of Youth in Curbing Corruption at the
National Youth Service Corps Orientation Camp, Issele Uku,
Delta State.
The EFCC boss who was represented by Williams Oseghale, Head,
Public Affairs, Benin Zonal Command urged the corps members to
shun acts of corruption and economic crimes.
"There is no shortcut to wealth and fame. The fact that the rate
of unemployment is high should not be an excuse to resort to crime.
Acts of criminality might deliver wealth in the short term but
ultimately, there will be misery and gnashing of teeth."
He admonished the corps members to be role models in their area of
primary assignment. "We are inviting you to lend a hand in helping
us build a society where there is respect for the rule of law and
where impunity is a thing of the past."
At the NYSC Orientation Camp, Gombe, the EFCC boss who was represented
by Chris Oluka, Head, Public Affairs, Gombe Zonal Command, challenged
the youth to take ownership of the fight against corruption. "You stand
at a threshold to either chart a path for good or bad by your actions
and we at EFCC encourage you to stand with us in securing a corrupt free
Nigeria, through your attitude and partnership with us."
He urged the corps members to understand their place as critical
stakeholders in the fight against corruption by being the 'eyes and
ears' of EFCC in their primary places of assignment. "The message
to you all this morning is that you should become whistleblowers
in any place you find yourselves by reporting acts that fail the
simple test of integrity. This you can do anonymously by downloading
our specially developed App called the 'Eagle Eye' via the App
store and Google play and using it to report all economic and
financial crimes,” he stated.
At the NYSC Orientation Camp, Kubwa, Federal Capital Territory,
Abuja, Superintendent of EFCC, Martha Ojochokutami Eche who delivered
the chairman's lecture called on the corps members to take up the
gauntlet in the fight against graft. "One critical group of stakeholders
are the youths. Apart from the fact that they are considered as the
leaders of tomorrow, most economic crimes, especially cyber-crimes,
are committed by young people. It therefore follows that young people
must not be mere spectators in the anti-graft campaign. Rather they
should actually be the foot soldiers chasing corruption and economic
crimes out of our land."
Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE Dele Oyewale, who represented
the Executive Chairman at the Nonwa Orientation Camp, Port Harcourt,
Rivers State called on corps members across the country to develop
hatred for corrupt practices and tackle them as dangerous and fierce
enemies against the nation. "Our experiences as a nation have shown
that our greatest enemy and threat to sustainable development is
corruption. We are all victims of the deleterious effects of this
monster. To this end, I charge all of you to treat corruption as
a mortal enemy and tackle it as such. You must develop aversion
towards corrupt practices and you must confront every compromise
of integrity with hard tackles", he said.
As a practical way of confronting corrupt practices, he tasked corps
members to be change agents, accountability vanguards and civil mobilisers
against corrupt practices. "In your place of primary assignments, you
should demonstrate your determination against corrupt tendencies by
changing the people around you, campaign against economic and financial
crimes and mobilise the people against every breach of integrity. It
is by being change agents that you will be able to draw the world to
the right direction", he said.
Additionally, the EFCC's boss stressed that the Eagle Eye Apps has
made citizens reporting corruption cases convenient. "As young Nigerians,
you can offer whistle blowing services to the EFCC through the Eagle
Eye App. It is a digital means of conveying information to us without
necessarily disclosing your identity. Only ensure that information supplied
to the EFCC is true and credible" he said.
From NYSC Orientation Camp in Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area, Kwara
State, Ayodele Babatunde, Head, Public Affairs, who stood in for the
EFCC Chairman charged the corps members to see themselves as anti-
corruption crusaders for the greater good of our country. According
to him, "the Commission believes that the NYSC is a veritable platform
to rally the Nigerian youth against corruption". He noted that the
fight against corruption should not be left to the EFCC alone, stressing
that it was essential to sensitise the youths against corruption,
cybercrime, illicit financial flows and illegal oil bunkering, all
of which contribute to economic sabotage.
He assured the corps members that the EFCC is resolute in its efforts
to curb corruption, money laundering and other forms of economic and
financial crimes. "The Commission would ensure that those who had
plundered the resources of the nation or amassed wealth through
illegitimate means are brought to justice through the instrumentality
of the law".
"I enjoin you to stand up and say no to corruption. Let us take the
future of this country in our hands and let us not lose hope in our
efforts to bring the country back from the brink", he said.
Adewoye Gbenga, of the Public Affairs Department, Ilorin Zonal Command
who was at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Asaya, Kabba, Kogi State, on behalf
of the Chairman challenged corps members to support the EFCC in raising
the campaign for a corruption free country through uprightness, volunteerism
and patriotism. "Once we are able to get rid of corruption and criminality,
then you can walk the street freely and successfully set the country on
the path of sustainable development."
He observed that corruption was responsible for the problems faced by
many Nigerians and urged youths to team up with the EFCC in the fight
against the menace. "Say no to corruption. Report any act of economic
and financial crime within your neighborhood to the EFCC and be assured
that you will get quick response from us", he added.
That was also the thrust of the message delivered by Bethel Ude, Head,
Public Affairs, Enugu Command at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Awgu, Enugu
State, "There is still hope for the country and Nigeria would be great
again if everyone including the youths join hands with the EFCC to end
the menace of corruption We are convinced that all hope is not lost in
the effort to bring this country back from the brink. As dynamic young
men and women, our desire is to harness your intelligence and energy
for greater public good in your areas of primary assignments," she said
Adeniran Adebayo, Head, Public Affairs, Makurdi Zonal Command, at the
NYSC Orientation Camp, Wannune, Tarka LGA, Benue State enjoined corps
members to join the EFCC/NYSC Community Development Group for a more
robust relationship. The platform, he says, would offer corps members
the opportunity for an enduring relationship with the Commission and
other stakeholders. "It will also avail you the opportunity to work
with the advocacy arm of the Commission and be in a position to serve
as change agents," he posited.
Same message was delivered by Mary Ogolekwu, an officer of the Public
Affairs Department, Benin Zonal Command and a host of other officers
who represented the Executive Chairman at other Orientation Camps
across the country.
The press release includes a photo:
shun-internet-fraud-bawa-charges-corps-members
******************************************
1 MAR 2022
EFCC Arrests Three Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Saturday, February 26, 2022, arrested three
suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City.
The suspects: Omoghan Destiny Igbinosa, Ossien Godwin Isioma
and Obiora Divine Chijoke, were arrested following a petition
by a Bureau De Change operator.
He alleged that one of the suspects had contacted him for his
account details which he obliged him. He said he later received
the sum of $4950 and transferred the Naira equivalent to one
of the suspects.
The complainant further alleged that recently, without his consent,
the sum of $2235USD was transferred to his account and that when
he went to withdraw the money, he was told that a lien had been
placed on the account on the grounds of suspicious transaction.
The suspects were subsequently arrested when they came to collect
the money from the Bureau de Change operator.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned in
court as soon as the investigation is completed.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-three-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
*****************************************
27 FEB 2022
EFCC Arrests Three Alleged Internet Fraudsters in Gombe
The Gombe Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday February 25, 2022, arrested three
suspected Internet fraudsters in their hideout at Investment
Quarters, Tumfre, Gombe State.
Two of the alleged scammers, Kenan Miracle and Charles Sunday,
from Edo and Adamawa State respectively, claimed they were
students of Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State.
Their arrest was triggered by actionable intelligence on their
alleged fraudulent activities.
Upon arrests, fraudulent documents were extracted from their
devices.
They will be arraigned in court as soon as the investigated
is concluded.
The press release has a photo:
efcc-arrests-three-alleged-internet-fraudsters-in-gombe
******************************************
25 FEB 2022
Be Good Examples, EFCC Charges Youths
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has
again charged youths to be good examples in conduct and
character and to shun economic and financial crimes. This
charge was given today, February 25, 2022, by the Benin
Zonal Commander, Usman Muktar at an enlightenment campaign
on the ills of economic and financial crimes at Midwest
Regional Youth Camp of Foursquare Gospel Church, Benin City.
The Zonal Commander who was represented by Williams Oseghale,
Head, Public Affairs charged the youth to be good examples in
the society. "The Bible says you are the light, so be the light
in your homes and your community. Where there is light, there
is no corruption, no fraud, no yahoo yahoo and other forms
of criminality."
He also charged them to shun internet fraud as it was not a
sustainable way of life. "Stay away from internet fraud. Don't
get involved because it is capable of truncating your destiny.
If you are caught, you can be sentenced to as much as 15 years
imprisonment. That effectively means a substantial part of your
life is wasted."
Besides imprisonment, assets, money and other proceeds of crime
retrieved from the suspect are forfeited to the government or
restituted to the victim of the offence.
"The Commission is resolute in dealing with internet fraudsters,
so there is no hiding place for them", said.
He further charged them to be disciplined, hardworking and accountable
in order to achieve their dreams in life.
Pastor Abayomi Jayeola, coordinator of the programme, thanked the
Commission for the enlightenment. He said with the lecture, the youths
were better informed on the consequences of engaging in economic and
financial crimes.
The press release includes a photo:
be-good-examples-efcc-charges-youths
**************************************
25 FEB 2022
EFCC Returns €1, 120 to German Fraud Victim
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday,
February 24, 2022, returned €1,120 (One Thousand One Hundred and
Twenty Euros) recovered from a fraudster to the German victim,
one Ms. Regina Gluck.
The money was recovered from a convicted fraudster and indigene
of Edo state, Austin Isibor Aisosa, who obtained the fund through
false representation that he was a wounded American soldier in
Afghanistan and needed urgent medical attention to return to the
United States.
The Secretary to the Commission, Dr. George Ekpungu who presented
the money to Jan Ritterhoff, an official of the German Embassy in
Nigeria, expressed satisfaction for the recovery and the Commission's
resolve to continue to partner with the German Embassy and other
international partners in fighting economic and financial crimes.
"It is obvious that EFCC is doing its work and we will continue to
do our best to fight all forms of economic and financial crimes",
he said.
Receiving the money on behalf of the victim, Ritterhoff thanked
the EFCC for the effort and assured of the German government's
assistance to Nigeria in the fight against economic and financial
crimes.
"We are happy that this is possible and we will return it to Ms.
Gluck as soon as possible. We are always here to help you and we
are grateful for your help in very difficult cases," he said.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-returns-1-120-to-german-fraud-victim
419 Coalition comment: Good on the EFCC, and we say: More! More!
More of the same!
******************************************
21 FEB 2022
EFCC Arrests 31 Alleged Internet Fraudsters in Benin
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday February 21, 2022 arrested 31
suspected internet fraudsters at their hideouts in Benin.
The suspects are Chukwu Onyekachi, Augustine Omokaro Isreal, Franklin
Ozoma, Kelly Osaretin, Uyi Eric, Aruna Charles Destiny, Osakpalor Joseph,
Ogiamon Nosa, Otaru Praise Tobi, Lucky Tejiri, Clinton Amanemiye, Bright
Omokhua, Aisosa Enobahkre, Imariable Aisosa Collins, Osamede Egboiy
Nicholas, Louis Ekharuyi, Omokhua Destiny and Omagbon Friday Harry.
Others are Freedom Ovie, Daniel Ogbemudia, James Collins Oghenetega,
Imalele Tony, Sunday Etim Peter, Nosakhare Uyi, Obi Emeka, Joseph Etim
Peter, Favour Aigbiedo, Greater Omosivie, Humphery Omosivie, Leonard
Ovie and David Osarere.
Items recovered from the suspects at the point of arrest include nine
exotic cars - Lexus ES 300, Mercedes Benz GLK 350, Lexus RX330, Lexus
RX350, Lexus RX330, Three (3) Mercedes Benz C300, Mercedes Benz C350
4Matic; laptops and mobile phones.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be arraigned in court
as soon as the investigation is concluded.
efcc-arrests-31-alleged-internet-fraudsters-in-benin
******************************************
21 FEB 2022
Court Sends Internet Fraudster Two Years Imprisonment in Benin
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court sitting in
Benin City on Monday, February 21, 2022, convicted and sentenced
one Ikuobase Miller (aka Larry Benson) to two years imprisonment
for fraud.
The defendant was arraigned on one count charge by the Benin
Zonal Command of the EFCC for fraudulent personation.
The charge reads, "that you Ikuobase Miller (alias Larry Benson)
between year 2020 and 2021 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did fraudulently personates the identity of one Larry Benson,
an American, with intent to defraud one Natasha, a foreign woman,
with the intent to gain advantage to yourself and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal
Code Cap 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria 1976 (as applicable in
Edo State)".
Upon arraignment the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Ozigbu Austin prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
Justice Ikpowonoba convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years
imprisonment with option of N 200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine.
In addition, the defendant shall also forfeit his mobile phone to the
Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good
behavior henceforth.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-internet-fraudster-two-years-imprisonment-in-benin
*******************************************
21 FEB 2022
EFCC Arraigns Two for Internet Fraud in Lagos
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, today February
21, 2022, arraigned the duo of Samuel Ayotunde Balogun and Sodiq Muraina
Olarenwaju before Justice A. O. Awogboro of the Federal High Court sitting
in Ikoyi, Lagos on separate charges bordering on possession of document
containing false pretence.
The charge preferred against Balogun reads that the defendant "sometime
in 2022 in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court directly
made a false statement wherein you held yourself as one Murry Johnson in
your Instagram account knowing same to be false and with intent that the
representation is relied upon for the purpose of procuring the issuance
of financial instrument to yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary
to and punishable under Section 22 (3) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention Etc.) Act, 2015".
Olarenwaju is accused of having in his possession a document containing
false pretence titled 'Google Account', "wherein you held yourself as a
white man named "Williams Sunday" an information you knew to be false
contrary to Section 6 and 5(1) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under section 1(3) of the
same Act".
They pleaded not guilty to the respective charges.
Justice Awogboro ordered the defendants remanded in the IkoyiCorrectional
facility and adjourned the matter till February 28, 2022 and March 9, 2022
for commencement of trial.
efcc-arraigns-two-for-internet-fraud-in-lagos
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17 FEB 2022
Ibadan Command Secures Six Convictions of Cybercriminals
A Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Tuesday,
February 15, 2022, convicted six internet fraudsters on separate
one count charge each for criminal impersonation, an offence which
contravenes Section 22 (2) (b) (1) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition,
Prevention etc.) Act 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (b) of
the same Act.
The convicts are: Wahab Akintola Salam, Alonge Abiodun Ayomide,
Adeyinka Goodness Taiwo, Adeniran Ayobami Tijesunimi, Dolapo Temitope
Oladele, and Mubarak Opeyemi Balogun.
They all pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against them upon
arraignment.
Afterwards, the prosecution counsel, Oluwatoyin Oladunni reviewed the
facts of the cases and urged the court to convict and sentence them
as charged.
Justice Uche Agomoh convicted and sentenced Adeyinka Goodness Taiwo
and Dolapo Temitope Oladele to ten months imprisonment each; Alonge
Abiodun Ayomide and Adeniran Tijesunimi seven months each, while Wahab
Akintola and Mubarak Opeyemi Balogun bagged six months imprisonment each.
Also, the court ordered that Mubarak Opeyemi Balogun restitute the sum
of N627, 177. 85 (Six Hundred and Twenty Seven Thousand, One Hundred
and Seventy Seven Naira, Eighty Five Kobo) domiciled in his bank account,
and forfeit one iPhone 12 Pro Max mobile phone to the Federal government
of Nigeria.
Adeyinka Goodness Taiwo was ordered to pay the sum of N1, 051, 051. 00
(One Million, Fifty One Thousand, Fifty One Naira) in restitution as he
forfeit one iPhone 11Pro Max and one Infinix Hot 8 mobile phones to the
Federal government.
Dolapo Temitope Oladele forfeits an Android mobile phone while Alonge
Abiodun Ayomide was ordered to restitute the sum of $100USD (One Hundred
United States Dollars).
The court also ordered that Adeniran Tijesunimi restitute $550USD (Five
Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars), and forfeit one iPhone X, an
Infinix Smart phone, one gold ring, and one 2005 Model Honda Accord Car
to the Federal government of Nigeria.
Wahab Akintola was ordered to pay the sum of $1,250USD (One Thousand,
Two Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars), and forfeit one iPhone
12 Pro Max mobile phone to the Federal government of Nigeria.
ibadan-command-secures-six-convictions-of-cybercriminals
*****************************************
17 FEB 2022
EFCC Arrests 29 Internet Fraud Suspects in Kwara
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, February 17, 2022, arrested twenty
nine (29) persons for their alleged involvement in internet and
other related fraud activities.
The suspects who were arrested at different locations in Offa,
Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State include: Sikiru Mustapha,
Abdulmartin Olawale, Gbolahan Abdulamin, Abdulfawaz Olakanmi,
Tunde Saheed, David Komolafe, Adebayo Ridwan, Oluwatobi Akinbo,
Fatimehin Kayode, Ibrahim Zakariya, Olajide Moshood, Ikudaisi
Adesoji, Habeeb Adeyemi and Hassan Akorede.
Others are: Ahmed Quadri, Olanipekun Ibrahim, Olabisi Ololade,
Ahmed Akorede, Wasiu Adesina, Damilola Samsudeen, Olaloye Damilare,
Nathaniel Laoshe, Adeniyi Opeyemi, Adebayo Shahajudeen, Segun Ajila,
Kehinde Olaniyi and Ibitowa Toyeeb.
The arrest followed credible intelligence received by the Command
on the activities of the suspects.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones, laptops and cars.
Some of the suspects have confessed to the crime and they will be
charged to court upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.
efcc-arrests-29-internet-fraud-suspects-in-kwara
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16 FEB 2022
Court Sends Serial Fraudster to Jail for $12,000 Scam in Ilorin
Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin
on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, convicted one Saka Ridwan Olamilekan
from Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area of Lagos State for possession
of fraudulent funds and love scam.
The conviction of the defendant followed his arraignment by the Ilorin
Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
on a one count charge.
Saka was among the 30 (Thirty) persons arrested on September 19, 2021,
at Molete in Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State over their
involvements on cybercrime.
The charge reads:
"That you, Saka Ridwan Olamilekan sometime in Ilorin, Kwara State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did knowingly had under your
control, Twelve Thousand Dollars ($12000) found in your Cash App account
which is reasonably suspected to be unlawfully obtained and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 319A of the Penal Code
Law"
The defendant pleaded guilty.
Prosecuting Counsel, Rasheedat Alao, reviewed the facts of the case
through a witness who is an operative of the EFCC. The witness said
several fraudulent messages were printed from Saka's devices. The extra
judicial statements of the defendant, the fraudulent messages, one Apple
iPhone 12 pro max and one HP Revolve Laptop were tendered and admitted
in evidence.
Alao therefore urged the Court to consider the facts and circumstances
of the matter in upholding the case of the prosecution.
Justice Akinpelu in a well considered judgment, convicted and sentenced
the defendant to six (6) months imprisonment with option of fine of #150,000 (
One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only)
The Judge ordered the convict to forfeit the sum of $1000 ( One Thousand
Dollars) which he raised as restitution as well his iPhone to the Federal
Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-serial-fraudster-to-jail-for-12-000-scam-in-ilorin
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15 FEB 2022
Ten Alleged Yahoo Boys Nabbed in Uyo
Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the early hours of Saturday, February
12, 2022, arrested members of a syndicate of cyber-fraudsters also
known as 'yahoo boys', in a sting operation at their hideouts in
Abak and Nwaniba areas of Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.
The suspects are: Chukwuka Anthony Onyeka, Endurance Augustine Udoh,
Adeyanju Abraham Kayode, Akpanobong Idongesit Ezekiel, Ogbon Precious,
Tamaraebi Idongesit Barry, Bassey Ubong John, Odenigbo Basil Chukwuebuka,
Oboh Rex and Kalu Jonathan Uzochukwu.
Items recovered from them include a locally made Pistol with four
Cartridges belonging to one of the suspects, Kalu Jonathan Uzochukwu.
Other items recovered from the suspects are mobile phones, laptops,
Router and a Toyota Camry car with registration number: GWA 998 JF Abuja.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are
concluded.
The press release includes photos:
ten-alleged-yahoo-boys-nabbed-in-uyo
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15 FEB 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster Five Years in Benin
Justice Professor C.A Obiozor of the Federal High Court sitting
in Benin City on Monday, February 14, 2022, convicted and sentenced
one Adanegbe Hope Osaze to five years imprisonment for fraud.
The defendant was arraigned on one count charge by the Benin Zonal
Command of the EFCC for fraudulent impersonation.
The charge against him reads, "that you Adanegbe Hope Osaze sometime
in year 2018 at Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honorable Court did fraudulently impersonate the identity of Mark Hagen
an American by sending his picture to Lynn Wri through the internet
which identity you claim to be your own with the intent to obtain money
from her, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2)
(b) (ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015
and punishable under section 22(2) (b) (iv) of the same Act".
Upon arraignment the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his pleas, the prosecution counsel, Ibrahim Mohammed prayed
the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly. However,
the defence counsel, B.I Jaboro urged the court to temper justice with
mercy as the defendant is a first time offender who has become remorseful
for his actions.
Justice Obiozor convicted and sentenced the defendant to five years
imprisonment with the option of a fine of N500, 000 (Five Hundred
Thousand Naira).
In addition, the defendant shall forfeit his mobile phone to the Federal
Government of Nigeria. and undertake to be of good behavior afterwards.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-five-years-in-benin
*****************************************
14 FEB 2022
EFCC Arrests 26 Internet Fraud Suspects, including Self-style PA to Gov. in Ibadan
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, February 11, 2022, arrested one
Babawale Daniel Olayinka, a self-style “Personal Assistant to the
Oyo State Governor on Media Matters”, and twenty five others at Soka
area of Ibadan, Oyo State, over alleged internet-related fraud activities.
The arrests followed verified intelligence on their cybercrime activities.
Twenty-five of the suspects have admitted involvement in internet fraud
activities.
The indicted suspects are: Wale Jegede, Adekunle Solomon, Babawale Daniel
Olayinka, Olanipekun Adams, Toheeb Admola, Olatunji Gbolahan, Oyowevotu
Moses, Olaide Ibrahim Opeyemi, Olamilekan Rilwan, Olamilekan Akinyemi,
Lekan Adenuga, Salami Segun, Lawal Samuel, Kolawole Fuad.
Others are: Olarenwaju Gbolahan, Makinde Olamiposi, Michael Timileyin,
Sheriff Ololade, Adewale Dayo, Ajobola Tajudeen, Kazeem Warrees, Obinna
Duru, Shotayo Sola, Mohammed Suleiman and Makinde Ajibola.
An identity card was recovered from Babawale Daniel Olayinka, one of
the 25 indicted internet fraud suspects, introducing him as a personal
assistant on media matters to the Oyo State governor, Oluseyi Abiodun
Makinde.
Items recovered from the suspects include seven exotic cars, several
laptops, mobile phones and incriminating documents.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.
The press release incldues a photo:
efcc-arrests-26-internet-fraud-suspects-including-self-style-pa-to-gov-in-ibadan
*********************************************
11 FEB 2022
EFCC Arrest Eight Internet Fraud Suspects in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has arrested eight (8) persons over their
alleged involvement in cyber-fraud, including cheating by
personation and love scam.
The suspects are Abdulrahman Ridwan, David Ayodeji, Gideon
Thomas, Yinus Muiz, Yinus Lateef, Jimoh Ahmed, Lawal Farouk
Opeyemi and Oladimeji Ridwan.
They were arrested in Basin and Asa-Dam areas of Ilorin,
the Kwara State Capital following credible intelligence
about their alleged criminal activities.
Items recovered from them include, exotic cars,mobile phones
and laptops.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is completed.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrest-eight-internet-fraud-suspects-in-ilorin
*****************************************
11 FEB 2022
Eleven Suspected Internet Fraudsters Arrested in Uyo
The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission EFCC, on Wednesday February 9, 2022 effected the
arrest of eleven suspected internet fraudsters in a sting
operation at different locations within Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The suspects aged between 18 and 30 years are: Caleb Jackson,
Inemesit Sunday E., Oputu Samuel Belle aged 20 from Yala Local
Government Area of Cross River State and a Civil engineering
student of Uniuyo;
Chinonso Ozuruigbo, Onyemaechi Chisom, Nzeakor Uchenna, Umana
Israel Victor, Bassey Solomon
Utuk Patrick and Ekemini Akaninyene Effiong
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigation
is concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
eleven-suspected-internet-fraudsters-arrested-in-uyo
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11 FEB 2022
Five Internet Fraudsters Convicted in Ogun, Osun
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, February 10, 2022 secured five
convictions before Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal
High Court, Osogbo, Osun State and Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo
of the Federal High Court, Abeokuta, Ogun State respectively,
for their involvement in internet fraud.
The convicts are: Sulaimon Ayub Damilare, Mujeeb Lawal Alabi,
Timilehin Paul Ogunleye, Osoko Adesola David and Akinwunmi Emmanuel.
They pleaded “guilty” to their separate charges.
Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel convicted and sentenced Osoko
Adesola David to five months imprisonment, Timilehin Paul Ogunleye,
four imprisonment while Akunwunmi Emmanuel bagged three months jail
term.
Similarly, Justice Oguntoyinbo convicted and sentenced Mujeeb
Lawal Alabi to three months imprisonment while Sulaimon Ayub
Damilare bagged four months.
The convicts are to restitute their victims and forfeit recovered
items to the Federal Government
five-internet-fraudsters-convicted-in-ogun-osun
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11 FEB 2022
EFCC Arrests 42 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Asaba
Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 42 suspected
internet fraudsters at various locations in Asaba, Delta State.
They were arrested on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, in a sting
operation.
The thirty-one( 31) of the suspects, comprising 29 men and 2 ladies,
are: James Nweze, Nmuokoro Tega, Eruteyan Benjamine, Nwaozor Chinedu,
Okwesa Solomon, Yusuf Michael, Ikhana Godswork, Benson David, Chidinma
Anthony, Jennifer Nkem, Okorie Temple, Paul Gabriel, Okafor Osita,
Vihishima Joseph and Desmond Osaigbovo.
Others are: Jude Ogougboh, Sylvester Nwabunwanne, Faith Samuel, Prince
Ohumhende, Osaretin Unity, Godstime Animan, Oluwaseun Orimoloye, Mathias
Ohashina, Precious Agolo, Okoronkwo Stanley, Benjamin Onyedika Victor,
Okonta Anthony, Omelebele Lucky, Okafor Victory, Osade Peter, Daniel
Chukwudi Mbaeme.
Their arrest followed series of intelligence reports linking them with
alleged fraudulent activities ranging from dating and celebrity scams
on numerous dating sites, bitcoin investment scam, cryptocurrency scam,
obtaining by false pretense and impersonation.
Items recovered from them at the point of arrest include: thirteen (13)
exotic cars, 59 phones of different brands; ten laptops, one Hisense
television and speakers; one iPad and 3 PlayStation.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.
The press release containa photo:
efcc-arrests-42-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-asaba
*****************************************
9 FEB 2022
Shun Cybercrime, EFCC Commander Tells Youth in Kaduna
The Commander of the Kaduna Zonal; Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Harry Erin has urged youths
to join the fight against economic and financial crimes.
The Commander who spoke through the Head of Bank Fraud, Mr. Effa
Imoh Okim at the launch of Intensive Financial and Anti- Cyber
Crime Campaign at Kaduna State University, KASU, on Wednesday,
February 9, 2022, noted that "success in the fight against Economic
and Financial Crimes including corruption can only be achieved when
all critical stakeholders especially the youths embrace the fight".
He said the future of Nigeria belongs to the youths and encouraged
them to help in securing the future of Nigeria.Also speaking, the
Head of Cyber Crime, Nuradeen Bello, advised the students to shun
cybercrimes as they stand the rsik of being caught and convicted.
If this happens, "your future will be destroyed, your name will be
on Internet forever, without any future politically or in the civil
service and no one will be willing to engage or be associated with
an ex-convict in anything".
He further encouraged them to concentrate on their studies so to
make a better future for themselves.
The press release contains a photo:
shun-cybercrime-efcc-commander-tells-youth-in-kaduna
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8 FEB 2022
Shun Cybercrimes, Embrace Hard Work, EFCC Commander Urges Youths
The Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Lagos Zonal Command, Ahmed Ghali, has again urged Nigerian students
from selected schools across Lagos State to shun cyber crime, and
to embrace hard work as the only road to success in life.
He gave the charge in a lecture entitled "Risk and consequences of
Cyber crime (Yahoo Yahoo)" delivered at the Akinwunmi Youth Center,
Yaba, Lagos, on February 8, 2022, as part of the annual celebration
of the "Safer Internet Day".
Ghali who was represented by the Deputy Head, Cyber Crimes Section,
EFCC Lagos Command, Suleiman Jijiwa, described the event as an auspicious
one.
According to him, cybercrimes is not a way of life and cannot ensure
an enduring success. Hard work is the only route to sustainable successful
life.
Speaking further, he said, "this event is not only timely, but necessary,
considering the rise in the spate of cybercrime across the globe and
Nigeria in particular".
"In the year 2021 alone, there were cyber-attack incidents every 11
seconds; this rise is alarming and worrisome."
He noted that cybercrime in Nigeria was being perpetrated by youths
and students within the age bracket of 18-45.
Identifying the quest for money as the major driving force that lures
students into cybercrime, he warned them that the EFCC will continue
to trace, arrest and prosecute Internet fraudsters.
"Arrest and conviction will give the perpetrator a negative image within
the society and may result in withdrawal from school," he said.
The Safer Internet Day, is an initiative of the Joint INSAFE/INHOPE,
aimed at transforming the mindset of young individuals in order to
reduce cybercrime in the society.
The press release includes a photo:
shun-cybercrimes-embrace-hard-work-efcc-commander-urges-youths
********************************************
3 FEB 2022
Ex- Rector’s Son, Olaoye, Two Others Jailed for Cyber Fraud in Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Thursday, February 3, 2022 secured the conviction of a certain Olaoye
Jamiu Olarewaju, son of a former Deputy Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Offa,
Kwara State, over offences bordering on cybercrime.
Olaoye was convicted alongside one Badmus Ridwan Moyosore, a native of Ibadan,
Oyo State and one Abdulsalam Ibrahim from Malete in Moro Local Government Area
of Kwara State, over similar offence by Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara
State High Court sitting in Ilorin.
The trio of Olaoye, Badmus and Abdulsalam, who were prosecuted on separately
by the anti-graft agency pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
Following their pleas, counsel to the EFCC, Rasheedat Alao called witnesses
who are operatives of the Commission to review the facts of the cases.
According to the witness who testified against Olaoye, the defendant fraudulently
defrauded one of his victims to the tune of $2,000 (Two Thousand United States
Dollars), while the testimony against Badmus revealed that the defendant swindled
his victim the sum of $200 (Two Hundred United States Dollars).
In the same vein, the testimony against Abdulsalam was to the effect that he
was involved in “sugar baby relationship scam” and that over N18million
suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities passed through his account.
The extra-judicial statements of the defendants, fraudulent documents printed
from their devices and items recovered from them at the point of arrest were
tendered and admitted in evidence.
Also, thereafter urged the court to convict the defendants as charged.
In her judgment, Justice Akinpelu held that the EFCC had established its cases
against the defendants. Consequently, the court pronounced the defendants guilty.
The judge sentenced Olaoye to a term of six months imprisonment with N150, 000.00
(One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) as option of fine. The court also ordered
that an iphone which he used to perpetrate the crime and the draft of N400,000.00
(Four Hundred Thousand Naira), which he raised as restitution be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
Similarly, Justice Akinpelu sentenced Badmus to six months imprisonment with
N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) as option of fine. Two phones and
a laptop used by the convict to perpetrate the crime were also forfeited
to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Justice Akinpelu sentenced Abdulsalam to six months imprisonment
with N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) as option of fine.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of a Toyota Camry Car, two phones and
a laptop used by the convict as instrumentality of the crime to the Federal
Government
ex-rector-s-son-olaoye-two-others-jailed-for-cyber-fraud-in-ilorin
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2 FEB 2022
Alleged $475,000 Fraud: Court Refuses Defendant's Bail Application
Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos, on February 2, 2022, refused the bail application filed by one
Chinedu Omesu, who is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission,EFCC, for defrauding an aged Asian-American lady
of about $475,000.
Operatives of the EFCC had arrested him on April 21, 2021 at James
Court, Lekki, Lagos, following verified intelligence.
He was accused of posing as one Ryan Frederick, a 58-year-old United
States of America citizen on a mission in Syria, using the guise to
defraud his victims.
He was arraigned on August 6, 2021 on an 11-count charge bordering
on possession of documents containing false pretence, forgery of
documents, stealing, and obtaining under false pretence.
One of the charges reads: "Omesu Christian Chinedu, on or about the
31st day of March 2021 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, and with intent to defraud, whilst holding yourself
out as Frederick Leo Ryan, a serving military operative of the United
States with Finnish descent, obtained the sum of $350,000 from one
Soon Kim, under the pretence that the cheque of one Frederick Leo
Ryan, in the same of $7,000,000 has been reviewed and confirmed by
Zenith Bank, which pretence you knew to be false."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.
In moving the bail application for the defendant, the defence raised
issues of ill-health and that the defendant was also in the process
of a plea bargain with the prosecution.
However, the prosecuting counsel, Chineye Okezie, opposed the bail
application, noting that the terms of a plea bargain were far from
being fulfilled by the defendant, including the sale of a property
traced to the defendant believed to be part of the proceeds of the
crime.
Okezie further argued that there was really nothing before the Court
to support the claim of any serious ill-health that cannot be adequately
handled in custody.
"It's a known victim that is involved," Okezie added.
Ruling on the bail application, Justice Taiwo noted the huge amount
involved in the alleged fraud, and further emphasized that though
the offences were bailable, the Court was inclined to uphold the
opposition of the prosecution.
Justice Taiwo held that: "I am inclined to decline bail until the
property is sold."
"Moreover, his sickness is not that serious."
"The defence counsel should accelerate the sale of the property
in order to facilitate the plea bargain agreement."
"There is no medical report before the Court to support the claim
that he is having a grave illness."
"Application is hereby refused and he is ordered to remain in prison
custody."
"The prison officials are hereby ordered to ensure that the defendant
receives proper medical attention."
The press release contains a photo:
alleged-475-000-fraud-court-refuses-defendant-s-bail-application
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2 FEB 2022
Four Internet Fraudsters Bag Jail Terms in Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday, February 2, 2022, secured the conviction and
sentencing of the quartet of Aregbesola Peters, Onah Paul, Jimoh
Olanrewaju and Ibrahim Olatunji for their involvement in internet
fraud.
The convicted internet fraudsters were arrested at the Lekki,
Surulere, Obalende and Ikotun areas of Lagos, respectively.
While Peters, who posed as an American woman to perpetrate dating
and romance scam, and Paul were arraigned before Justice Mojisola
Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, Olanrewaju
and Olatunji were arraigned before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of the
Special Offences Court, Ikeja.
Peters, who was charged with an amended two-count charge bordering
on possession of false documents to perpetrate internet fraud, was
arrested on October 8, 2021 along with some others involved in
cybercrime, following actionable intelligence received by the Commission.
An iPhone 11 Pro Max was recovered from Peters, who admitted to have
benefitted $300.
Paul, who was arrested on August 2, 2021 on a one-count charge, was
accused of illegal online activities such as apartment scam.
Under interrogation, he admitted to have benefitted $5,000.
A gold iPhone was recovered from him.
Upon his arrest in October 2021, Olanrewaju, who posed as a white
woman based in Montreal, Canada,admitted to have benefitted $1,100
and was subsequently charged with one-count
Olatunji, who was arrested on March 9, 2021 alongside 27 suspected
internet fraudsters, was charged with three counts.
He was accused of scamming his victims online by posing as a sex
worker by the name Sonia.
Though he lives in Nigeria, he claimed to be based in Texas, United
States of America.
An iPhone X was recovered from him, from which incriminating documents
were printed out.
They all pleaded "guilty" to the charges; and also urged the Court,
through their lawyers, to temper justice with mercy.
Consequently, they were convicted accordingly by the Courts.
Peters and Paul were sentenced to one year imprisonment each.
Following their respective allocutus, Peters got an option of
N200,000 fine, while Paul got an option of N1million fine.
Both were ordered by Justice Dada to, upon their release, sign a
written undertaking with the EFCC to be of good behaviour and never
to engage in financial crime.
While Olanrewaju was sentenced to six months in prison with an
option of N200,000 fine, Olatunji also bagged six months with
an option of N250,000 fine.
Items recovered from them were ordered forfeited to the Federal
Government.
The press release contains a photo:
our-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-lagos
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2 FEB 2022
Court Jails Three for Internet Fraud in Makurdi
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Makurdi Zonal
Command, has secured the conviction of Onah Michael Owoicho, Ochigbo
Monday Adakole and Ahmed Musa before Justice Abdu Dogo of the Federal
High Court, Makurdi, Benue State, on separate one-count charges of
criminal impersonation and obtaining money by false pretences.
Michael, allegedly obtained the aggregate sum of N35 million through
credit card fraud, while Monday, obtained N2.3million in Bitcoin fees
from members of a Gay Group through a Gay Website. He had represented
himself as a Gay "Sugar Daddy" on the platform and enticed members
to pay a Bitcoin fee of $254 to access the $5,000 which he will send
to them as allowance for a romp.
Ahmed was nabbed for alleged ATM fraud.
The offences contravene Section 33(1) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under the same Act.
The charge against Onah Michael Owoicho reads, "That you Onah Michael
Owoicho "m" sometime in September, 2021 in Makurdi, Benue State, within
the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, fraudulently represented
yourself to be an Online Credit Card Business person and obtained
the aggregate sum of N35,082,668.87 (Thirty Five Million Eight Two
Thousand Six Hundred and Sixty Eight Naira Eighty Seven Kobo) as
financial gain and benefit to yourself which was paid into your crypto
currency wallet account and which you transferred to your GT Bank account
No. 0118182244 and UBA Bank account No. 2144289015, a representation
you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to
section 33(1) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act,
2015 and punishable under same section of the Act".
The defendants pleaded 'guilty' when the charges were read to them.
The prosecution counsel, M. Yusuf reviewed the facts of the cases
and urged the Court to convict the defendants.
In a separate judgment, Justice Dogo convicted and sentenced Owoicho
to one (1) year imprisonment with an option of fine of N3.5 Million.
His Lexus ES 350 car, Samsung Galaxy A51 and Techno T662 mobile phones
and monies in the two bank accounts used in committing the crime were
ordered forfeited to the Federal Government.
Adakole was sentenced to one (1) year imprisonment with an option of
fine of N1.5 Million. He was also ordered to forfeit a Toyota Camry
car 2009 model and monies in four bank accounts used in commuting
the crime, to the Federal Government.
Musa bagged Six month (6) imprisonment with an option of fine of
N250, 000.
The press release contains photos of two of the three 419ers:
court-jails-three-for-internet-fraud-in-makurdi
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1 FEB 2022
Two Varsity Students Jailed for Cybercrime in Ilorin
Two students of the Kwara State University, KWASU, Malete, Animasahun
Rokeeb Mayowa and Lawal Alamin Tewogbola were on Tuesday, February 1,
2022 convicted and sentenced to various jail terms by Justice Adenike
Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin for offences bordering
on cyber-fraud.
The duo of Animasahun and Lawal, who are natives of Oyo and Offa in
Oyo and Kwara States, respectively were prosecuted on separate charge
by the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC.
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges against them.
Following their plea, counsel to the EFCC, Rasheedat Alao, through Salaudeen
Abdulrasaq and Kaludeen Yahaya, who are operatives of the Commission reviewed
the facts of the cases against Animasahun and Lawal.
The witnesses told the court how intelligence reports led to the arrest
of the defendants in Malete Area of Kwara State with several incriminating
documents. Several documents including their extra-judicial statements and
iPhones were tendered and admitted in evidence.
Alao thereafter urged the court to consider the plea of the defendants,
the extra-judicial statements, and exhibits tendered and convict them
as charged.
Justice Akinpelu in her judgment agreed that the prosecution had established
its case against each of the defendants. Consequently, he pronounced them
guilty.
The judge sentenced Animasahun to six months imprisonment with option of
fine of N150,000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira ). The court
ordered that a Toyota Camry Car 2007 model, which was recovered from him
at the point of arrest and the iPhone which he used to perpetrate the
crime be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Justice Akinpelu sentenced Lawal to six months imprisonment
on each of the two counts against him, which would run concurrently with
option of N100,00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira ) fine on each count. The
court also ordered the forfeiture of the sum of $225 (Two Hundred and
Twenty Five Dollars), which he benefited from the crime and iPhone 6,
which was used as instrumentality for the crime, to the Federal Government.
The press release contains photos pf booth 419ers:
two-varsity-students-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-ilorin
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28 JAN 2022
Court Jails Two Internet Fraudsters in Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on January 28, 2022, secured the conviction and sentencing
of two internet fraudsters, Sunday Gbenga and Ayomikun Jide Maxwell,
for internet fraud before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special
Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
Gbenga, who pleaded "guilty" to the amended one-count charge bordering
on the use of fraudulent documents to perpetrate internet fraud, was
among the suspected internet fraudsters arrested at the Conference Hotel,
Abeokuta, Ogun State at a purported Awards Night party on November 28,
2021, following intelligence report obtained by the EFCC.
Upon his arrest, an iPhone 13 mobile phone was recovered from him
and the fraudulent documents contained therein, which he used to
perpetrate internet fraud, were printed out.
Maxwell was arrested on August 12, 2021 at the Iju-Ishaga area of
Lagos State by operatives of the EFCC, following actionable intelligence
received by the Commission about the activities of suspected internet
fraudsters around the area.
Upon his arrest, an iPhone 6 was also recovered from him, from which
incriminating materials confirming his involvement in internet fraud
were printed out.
Specifically, he poses as a white female sex worker who charges $150
per hour and whose services can only be procured after paying 50 per
cent of the charges.
However, as soon as he receives the payment, he blocks the person,
thereby cutting off any further communication.
He was charged with an amended four-count charge, to which he pleaded
"guilty".
Subsequently, Justice Dada found them guilty as charged and sentenced
them to one year in prison.
They were both given an option of N250, 000 as fine.
In addition, they are all to sign a bond with the EFCC upon their release
to be of good behaviour and not to engage in any form of economic and
financial crime within and outside the shores of Nigeria.
The items recovered from them were also ordered forfeited to the Federal
Government.
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
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27 JAN 2022
Three Bag Jail Terms For Internet Fraud In Lagos
The Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Thursday, January 27, 2022, secured the conviction and
sentencing of the trio of Raheem Sodiq Morenikeji, Adetunji Stephen
Ademola and Okpala Samuel for internet fraud before Justice S.O.
Solebo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
The convicts were arrested sometime in May 2021 at the Sangotedo,
Alagbado and Meiran areas of Lagos State, respectively.
Raheem was charged with an amended count in which he was accused
of defrauding his victim through deception to the tune of $2,000
and another N54, 000 as a picker.
Under interrogation, he admitted to have purchased a Toyota Camry
2013 model in the name of his mother, which was recovered from him.
An iPhone 7x was also recovered from him.
On his part, Ademola who was also charged with an amended one-count
charge, following a plea bargain agreement with the prosecution, was
accused of posing online as "Tina Moore" and "Jessica", to defraud
his victims to the tune of $2,000.
Upon arrest, an iPhone 11 Pro Max was recovered from him.
Okpala, who also approached the EFCC for a plea bargain, was charged
with a one-count amended charge in which he was accused of posing on F
acebook as Jane Michelle Gregor living in Texas, through which he
professed love to one Roberto, who was actually living in Minnesota,
United States.
He lured Roberto into a romantic relationship and was able to receive
$600 from him purportedly for feeding and payment for school fees. An
iPhone 11 and bontel phone were recovered from him upon arrest.
They all “pleaded guilty” to the charges, and also pleaded with the
Court to temper justice with mercy.
Subsequently, Justice Solebo found the defendants guilty as charged
and sentenced them to one year in prison.
While Raheem was given an option of N500,000 fine, Ademola got N1million
option of fine, and Okpala was given an option of N400,000 fine.
In addition, they are all to sign a bond with the EFCC upon their
release to be of good behaviour and not to engage in any form of
economic and financial crime.
Raheem and Ademola were also ordered to serve 500 hours of community
service, while Okpala got 400 hours.
They were also ordered to forfeit to the Federal Government all the
items recovered from them.
three-bag-jail-terms-for-internet-fraud-in-lagos
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27 JAN 2022
EFCC Secures Conviction of Six Internet Fraudsters
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, secured the
conviction of six internet fraudsters on charges bordering on
fraudulent impersonation.
Five of the convicts - Ahmed Oguneye Abiona, Owoade Kehinde
Elijah, Oriade Sunday Oluwatobiloba, Usman Adams Shehu, and
Waris Adegoke Adeyemo - were prosecuted before Justice Nathaniel
Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal High Court, Oshogbo, Osun State,
while David Fatunla Taiwo (aka Jeff Wood), was prosecuted before
Justice Babs Kuewunmi of the Federal High Court, Ado Ekiti,
Ekiti State.
They pleaded guilty to their respective one-count charges and
were convicted accordingly.
Abiona, Adeyemo and Shehu bagged four months each, Owoade
three months, while Oriade was sentenced to five months
imprisonment. Taiwo was slammed with twenty months imprisonment.
The court also ordered the defendants to restitute their victims.
Oriade is to restitute his victim the sum of $590USD (Five Hundred
and Ninety United States Dollars). He was equally ordered to forfeit
an iPhone XR, one Samsung S5 mobile phone and one Acer Laptop to the
Federal Government of Nigeria, Ahmed is to restitute to one Michael
Johnson the sum of $500USD (Five Hundred United States Dollars)
and further forfeit the sum of Three Million, Thirteen Thousand,
Seven Naira, Thirty-nine kobo (N3, 013,007.39) found in his United
Bank of Africa Account, an iPhone 11 Pro Max mobile phone and one
Toyota Camry car to the Federal Government of Nigeria, being
proceeds of his crime.
Adeyemo was ordered to return the sum of $300USD (Three Hundred
United States Dollars) to one Peter Decker and forfeit one iPhone
11 Pro Max to Federal Government of Nigeria.
Shehu is to restitute his victim the sum of $400USD (Four Hundred
United States Dollars) and forfeit one Samsung Galaxy S8 to Federal
Government of Nigeria.
Owoade was ordered to restitute his victim the sum of $300USD
(Three Hundred United States Dollars) and forfeit an iPhone 6
mobile phone to Federal Government of Nigeria.
Taiwo was ordered to restitute his victim, one Joanne K. Thornhill,
the sum of £450(Four and Hundred and Fifty Pounds) through the
Federal government of Nigeria.
The press release includes photos of four of the six 419ers:
efcc-secures-conviction-of-six-internet-fraudsters
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26 JAN 2022
EFCC Arrests Suspected Internet Fraudster in Lagos
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested one Michael
Jackson for his alleged involvement in internet fraud.
He was arrested on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, following the
credible intelligence received by the Commission on the illegal
activities of some individuals allegedly involved in computer-
related fraud.
Jackson, who poses as Ella, a transgender woman, allegedly
defrauded unsuspecting victims of millions of Naira.
The suspect, who also claimed to be a Disc Jockey, DJ, had
in his possession fetish items, which he claimed was "for grace
and success."
Upon his arrest, one Toyota 4-runner, one Honda Accord, two
laptop computers, a MacBook and a mobile device were recovered
from him.
The suspect will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-suspected-internet-fraudster-in-lagos
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26 JAN 2022
Absence of Defence Counsel Stalls Suspect's Arraignment
in Alleged €211, 000 Fraud
The arraignment of one Ifekwu Chukwuma Dominic by the Lagos Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on
Wednesday, January 26, 2022, before Justice S.O. Solebo of the Special
Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on a five-count charge bordering
on conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence, obtaining by false
pretence, and possession of documents containing false pretence was
stalled due to the absence of the defence counsel.
One of the counts reads: "Ifekwu Chukwuma Dominic, aka John Alfred,
and Okechukwu, aka Connie Miller (at large), between 2014 and 2017,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to
defraud,obtained the aggregate sum of 211,000 Euros from Imelda
Dorflinger under the false representation that you, Ifekwe Chukwuma
Dominic, had inherited gold from your father and needed the said
money to pay taxes in order to enable you to have access to the
gold, a representation you knew to be false."
Another count reads: "Ifekwu Chukwuma Dominic (aka John Alfred),
on or about 22nd June 2016, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, and with intent to defraud, had in your possession a document
titled: "Cashier Cheque", where you falsely represented to Imelda
Dorflinger that you have been issued a cheque valued at $590,000.00
and which document you knew contained false information."
Though the prosecuting counsel, I.O. Daramola, and the defendant
were in court, the defence counsel was absent.
The case has been adjourned till May 10, 2022.
The press release includes a photo:
absence-of-defence-counsel-stalls-suspect-s-arraignment-in-alleged-211-000-fraud
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25 JAN 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster One Year in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, secured the
conviction and sentencing of one Dadeowo Hassan before Justice
O.O. Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting in
Ikeja, Lagos on a two-count amended charge bordering on
possession of fraudulent documents used to perpetrate internet
fraud.
Count one reads: "Dadeowo Hassan, on or about the 4th day of
May, 2021 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, with intent to defraud, had in your possession a document
titled MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR, which was printed out of
your email address rdhfdfgd21@gmail.com."
The second count reads: "Dadeowo Hassan, on or about the 4th
day of May 2021 in Lagos , within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, had in your possession
a document titled MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR, which was printed
from your Hewlett-Packard laptop from a website called UNICC, where
you purchased American Citizen social security number."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charges.
Following his plea, the prosecuting counsel, M.S. Owede, gave
a review of the facts of the case.
According to him, sometime in May 2021, the EFCC received intelligence
report on the activities of internet fraudsters operating at Victoria
Garden City, VGC, Lagos.
"Sequel to the intelligence, surveillance was carried out, and this
defendant was arrested, with his tools of trade: iPhone X, iPhone
12 Pro Max, a Nokia phone, and a Hewlett-Packard laptop," he said.
Owede further told the Court that investigation was extended to
his email address and documents evidencing false pretence were
discovered and printed out in his presence, which he also endorsed.
He, thereafter, tendered in evidence the statement made to the
EFCC in the course of the investigation, the bundle of documents
printed out from the defendant's email and a cheque of N500,000
issued by the defendant as part of a plea bargain agreement brought
before the Court, which was agreed to by both parties.
The documents were admitted in evidence against him and marked
Exhibits P1a, P1b, P1c, P1d, P2, P3, P4 and P5.
Justice Abike-Fadipe, thereafter, found him guilty as charged and
sentenced him to one year in prison, with an option of N1million
fine and 40 hours of community service.
He is to forfeit to the Federal Government the devices recovered
from him, including the N500,000 bank draft.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-one-year-in-lagos
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24 JAN 2022
Spare Parts Dealer, One Other Jailed for Cyber Fraud in Ilorin
Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court sitting in
Ilorin on Monday, January 24, 2022 convicted an Ilorin-based spare
parts dealer, Tiamiyu Hammed and one Kamarudeen Olarewaju Ibrahim
for offences bordering on cybercrime and possession of fraudulent
funds.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, arraigned the duo of Tiamiyu and Kamarudeen
on separate one and two-count charges, respectively before the
court.
Tiamiyu, 23, who claimed to be from Ogbomosho South-East Local
Government of Oyo State, allegedly disguised as one Sarah Ben,
a white female of Colorado, United States, to swindle one Todd
Byers of $600 vide gift cards in contravention of Section 321
of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 324 of the same
Penal Code.
On the other hand, the EFCC in one of the counts, accused Kamarudeen
of having under his control a sum of N679,450.00 (Six Hundred and
Seventy Nine Thousand, Four Hundred and Fifty Naira) unlawfully
obtained and paid into his account by one of the new generation
banks. The offence contravenes Section 319 (a) of the Penal Code
and punishable under same Section of the Penal Code.
The two defendants pleaded guilty to the charges against them.
Following their pleas, counsel to the EFCC, Andrew Akoja, called
witnesses who are operatives of the Commission to review the facts
of each case.
The witnesses narrated how intelligence led to the arrest of the
defendants. They tendered documents and materials recovered from
the defendants during investigation as evidence.
Akoja, thereafter urged the court to convict the defendants as
charged based on their admittance of guilt and the overwhelming
evidence against them.
In her judgment, Justice Akinpelu said the court has carefully
considered the 'guilty plea' entered by the defendants, the
testimonies of the witnesses and the evidence tendered against
the defendants. Consequently, she pronounced the two defendants
guilty.
The court sentenced Tiamiyu to six months imprisonment with N150,000
(One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only) as option of fine. The
Judge also ordered the forfeiture of iphone 11 which the convict used
as instrument to perpetrate the crime. He would also forfeit the sum
of $600 (Six Hundred Dollars) cash, which he brought as restitution
to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Justice Akinpelu sentenced Kamarudeen to six months
imprisonment on the two counts against him with option of fine
N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only) on each count. The judge
also ordered the forfeiture of iphone 11pro max and hp laptop, which
the convict allegedly used to perpetrate the crime. The convict
would also forfeit the draft of N400,000 (Four Hundred Thousand
Naira Only) to the Federal Government.
spare-parts-dealer-one-other-jailed-for-cyber-fraud-in-ilorin
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21 JAN 2022
Court Jails Internet Fraudster One Year In Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, January 21, 2022, secured the
conviction and sentencing of one Raji Olasunkanmi to one
year imprisonment for possession of fraudulent documents
used to perpetrate internet fraud before Justice Mojisola
Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
Operatives of the Commission, acting on the intelligence,
had arrested him along with some other suspected internet
fraudsters on August 13, 2021 around the Iju-Ishaga area
of Lagos.
Following further investigation, he was brought to court
and charged with one-count amended charge bordering on
possession of fraudulent documents.
He pleaded "guilty" to the amended charge.
The prosecuting counsel, Ebareotu Pereagbe, thereafter,
informed the Court of a plea bargain agreement between the
prosecution and the defence, which was also before the Court.
"We urge the Court to adopt the same," he said, as he went
on to review the facts of the case.
According to him, an iPhone 8 was found on the defendant,
which upon analysis indicated that the defendant was engaged
in internet fraud.
"Upon interrogation, he admitted that he had benefitted the
sum of $1,300 from his victims," Pereagbe added.
Subsequently, he tendered as exhibits the defendant's statement
to the EFCC, the documents printed out of his device, and a manager's
cheque of N280, 000 issued by the defendant as part of the plea
bargain.
The documents were admitted by the Court as Exhibit P to P3.
Thereafter, defence counsel, Pentecost Chukwunalu, prayed the
Court to temper justice with mercy.
Consequently, Justice Dada pronounced him guilty as charged
and sentenced him to one year in prison.
He was, however, given an option of N1million fine.
The items recovered from him were ordered forfeited to the
Federal Government.
Upon release from prison, he is to sign a written undertaking
not to be involved in crime.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-jails-internet-fraudster-one-year-in-lagos
******************************************
19 JAN 2022
EFCC Arrests 8 for Internet Fraud in Makurdi
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Makurdi Zonal Command, have arrested 8 suspects for
alleged involvement in computer-related fraud.
The suspects are: Okoha Chinedu Charles, Chibuizor Philip
Nnake, Emmanuela Odeh Eneokpe, Ushir Terhile John, Okoro
Ossico Osaro, Ejiofor Chibuizor, Wandoo Juliet Baru and
Tarbee Destinies.
They were arrested on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 during
an operation by operatives of the Commission in Makurdi,
Benue State.
The suspects will be charged to Court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-8-for-internet-fraud-in-makurdi
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19 JAN 2022
Court Convicts Two Fraudsters in Asaba
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday January 17, 2022 secured the conviction
of two internet fraudsters before Justice F. O. Olubanjo of the
Federal High Court, Asaba, Delta State.
The defendants, Okunrobo Smart and Osayi Casmir Osaruonameh were
arraigned on one count charge of impersonation and obtaining by
false pretence. The duo were said to have misrepresented their
identities to defraud unsuspecting foreign nationals.
The charge against Osaruonamen reads, "that you Osayi Casmir
Osaruonamen (m) sometime between January and 12th of September,
2021 at Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court with intent to defraud, sent electronic message
which materially misrepresented your identity to Thejasminecarter,
a lady in the United States of America upon which she relied and
suffered financial loss in the sum of $15,047 and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 14(2) of the
Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015".
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, I. K. Agwai
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
However, the defence counsel, Matthew Adebola however urged the
court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants were first
time offenders who have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Olubanjo convicted and sentenced the defendants to five
years imprisonment with option of a fine of N1 million each.
In addition, the defendants are to forfeit the balance in their
various bank accounts as well as their phones and an apple wrist
watch to the Federal Government of Nigeria. They are also to undertake
in writing to be of good behavior henceforth.
The press release contains photos of both 419ers:
court-convicts-two-fraudsters-in-asaba
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15 JAN 2022
Court Jails Four for Cyber-fraud in Enugu
The Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday January l4, 2022, secured the
conviction of four internet fraudsters also known as Yahoo
Boys before Justice F. O. Giwa Ogunbanjo of the Federal
High Court Enugu, Enugu State on charges bordering on forgery
and impersonation to defraud.
Three of the convicts are: Orji Okpara Chimaobi, Ngene Emmanuel
and Okechukwu Kelvin were sentenced to 2 years in prison with
option of fine of One Million Naira each, while Eneh Nelson
Chukwudire was sentenced to one year with option of One Million
Naira fine
The press release contains photos of all four 419ers:
court-jails-four-for-cyber-fraud-in-enugu
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13 JAN 2022
Fake Lawyer in EFCC Net For Forgery, Impersonation
Operatives of the Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, have arrested a fake lawyer, Adekola Adekeye, whose
stock-in-trade is forging documents to perpetrate fraud.
Adekeye’s travail began on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 when he came to
the Lagos Command of EFCC posing as a lawyer to secure the bail of a
suspected fraudster who is in the Commission's custody.
However, nemesis caught up with Adekeye, when investigators dug in
further to verify the documents he tendered to secure the bail of
the suspected fraudster.
A search at his residence further unearthed several forged documents
dating back to 2005, including forged Lagos State University and Kwara
State College of Education documents.
He also claimed to be the owner of "A.A. Emmanuel & Co. Chambers”,
which he had been using to perpetrate frauds until his arrest.
He will soon be arraigned in court.
Meanwhile, the Commission will continue to ensure that such impostors
using fake personalities and documents to procure the bail of suspects
are made to face the wrath of the Law.
The press release includes a photo:
fake-lawyer-in-efcc-net-for-forgery-impersonation
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12 JAN 2022
Five Convicted Fraudsters in Abeokuta to Return $4,641 to Victims
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Monday, January 10, 2022, secured the conviction of five fraudsters
who were ordered to return a total of $4,641 to their victims before Justice
Ayokunle Rotimi-Balogun of Ogun State High Court, Abeokuta.
The convicts are: Opeyemi Oluwaseun Ayede (a.k.a Mary Mark, Nicolete Shea),
Taiwo Adeniyi Onasanya (a.k.a Fred Howard),Winner Chuks Olubor(a.k.a Tracy
Richards), Sodiq Olamide Ganiu(a.k.a Rosemary) and Adebowale Taofeek Jimoh
(a.k.a Schulist Carleen).
They were convicted and sentenced to four months imprisonment each, for
the offence of obtaining money under false pretences, contrary to section
419 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Ogun State,2000.
The court also ordered the convicts to restitute their victims.
Ayede is to restitute the total sum of $1,000USD (One Thousand United States
Dollars) to his victim, Robert Smith through the Federal Government of Nigeria.
He equally forfeits one iPhone 12 Pro Max mobile phone and a Lexus RX350 to
Federal Government of Nigeria, being proceeds of crime.
Onasanya was ordered to restitute his victims – Hannah Pane, Mr. Roland and
Carolyn Donna the sum of $2,000USD(Two Thousand United States Dollars) and
forfeit one iPhone XR and a Toyota Corolla 2012 model salon car to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
Similarly, Olubor is to restitute his victim the sums of $591USD (Five Hundred
and Ninety One United States Dollars) He was equally ordered to forfeit to the
Federal Government of Nigeria, one Iphone 11 Pro Max and one Black Wrist iwatch
series 3.
Ganiu is to pay the sum of $50USD (Fifty United States Dollars) to his victims,
while Adebowale will return the sum of $1,000USD (One Thousand United States
Dollars) to his victims-Donnie Wortham and Ossie Savaria.
The press release includes photos of all 5 419ers:
five-convicted-fraudsters-in-abeokuta-to-return-4-641-to-victims
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10 JAN 2022
Court Adjourns Suspected Internet Fraudster’s Trial Till March 14
Justice S.O. Solebo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos, on Monday, January 10, 2022, adjourned till March 14, 2022
for adoption of written addresses in the case involving one Alogba
Afeez Olaoluwa.
Olaoluwa, who is being prosecuted by the Lagos Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, was arraigned on a one-count
charge bordering on internet fraud and possession of fraudulent documents
on March 23, 2020 to which he pleaded "not guilty".
The charge reads: "That you, Alogba Afeez Olaoluwa, sometime in 2016
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, knowingly had in your
possession documents containing false pretence to wit: email conversation,
wherein you held yourself out as Robbie Courtney." At today's proceeding,
Olaoluwa took to the dock to defend himself.
Led in evidence by his counsel, Daniel Yeri, he claimed that he was
coerced into giving the statement he volunteered during interrogation
by operatives of the EFCC.
"After the statement, I was charged to court and I pleaded not guilty
to clear my name," he said.
Under cross-examination by the prosecuting counsel, A.O. Mohammed, the
defendant admitted that he was arrested on March 7, 2020 and that he gave
his statement on March 8, 2020.
Mohammed confronted him with Exhibit A, his statement to the EFCC, and
Exhibit B, the documents printed out from his email.
During the cross-examination, he also admitted to having pretended to be
a female by the name Robbie Courtney, which he also admitted to in his
statement to the EFCC.
The case was, thereafter, adjourned till March 14, 2022 for adoption
of written addresses.
court-adjourns-suspected-internet-fraudster-s-trial-till-march-14
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10 JAN 2022
EFCC Recovers N152Bn, $386m in 2021
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in continuation
of the review of its operational activities for 2021 has disclosed
that it recovered the aggregate sum of N152, 088,698,751.64, (One
Hundred and Fifty-two Billion, Eighty-eight Million, Six Hundred
and Ninety-eight Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty-one Naira,
Sixty-four Kobo), $386,220,202.84 ( Three Hundred and Eighty-six
Million, Two Hundred and Twenty Thousand, Two Hundred and Two Dollar,
Eighty-four Cent), £1, 182,519.75 ( One Million, One Hundred and
Eighty-two Thousand, Five Hundred and Nineteen Pounds, €156,246.76(
One Hundred and Fifty-six Thousand, Two Hundred and Forty-six Euro),
1,723,310.00 Saudi Riyal, 1,900.00 South African Rand, and 1, 400.00
Canadian Dollar between January and December 2021.
The recovery basket also included a digital currency component with
5, 36957319 Bitcoin and 0.09012 Ethereum.
Headquarters Operation dominated the recoveries with N67, 249, 744, 994.89,
$375,662,223.59 and £1,151,539.75. It is closely followed by the Lagos
Command which led the Naira recoveries with N70, 315,611,260.52, $9,286,497.83
and £21,500.00.
The Kaduna Zonal Command emerged third in terms of Naira recoveries with
a total sum of N3, 339,405,723.93 while the Ibadan Zonal Command took the
same position in terms of Dollar recoveries to the tune of $387,385.00.
Giving an overview of the performance, the Executive Chairman of the
Commission, Abdulrasheed Bawa, explained that the monies included direct
and indirect recoveries for the different tiers of government (Federal,
State and Local Governments), corporate organizations and individuals (
victims of crime) within the year under review.
He commended the personnel of the Commission for the performance while
urging them to redouble their efforts to ensure that perpetrators of
economic and financial crimes are denied the benefit of the proceeds
of crime.
efcc-recovers-n152bn-386m-in-2021
419 Coalition comment: We'd like to know specifically how much was
recovered from Advance Fee Fraud (419) criminals, and, of that amount,
specifically how much has been verifiably repatriated and paid out to
419 victims. One would think that EFCC would surely be glad to report
those figures, after all.
*****************************************
6 JAN 2022
EFCC Secures 2,220 Convictions in 2021
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, secured a total
of 2220 (Two Thousand Two Hundred and Twenty) convictions across all
its Commands in 2021. The figure which emerged from a review of the
Commission's performance in the outgone year, shows that the Lagos
Command of the Agency recorded the most convictions-481, closely
followed by the Ibadan Command with 324 convictions, while the Port
Harcourt Zonal Command had 230 convictions.
The conviction secured by the Commission in 2021 is the highest by
the EFCC Since inception. Before 2021, the highest record of conviction
by the Commission was secured in 2019 with 1280 convictions. The 2220
record of 2021 is a 127.5 % improvement over the 2019 record.
Interestingly too, the 2220 record represents a 98.49% success rate i
n prosecution as the Commission lost only 34 cases during this period.
Commenting on the performance, the Executive Chairman of the EFCC,
Abdulrasheed Bawa, commended the personnel of the Commission for their
industry and dedication despite the challenges of criminal prosecution
in court. He assured that the EFCC will continue to motivate all categories
of staff for greater efficiency through capacity development and other
incentives.
efcc-secures-2-220-convictions-in-2021
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