419 Coalition Note: Around the first of the year, EFCC began
yet another redesign of their site. It is abominable, illogically
done, annoying to use, and even less functional than the previous
design. We have told them the above, and hope they take heed,
as the new design is indeed awful. What it looks like is that
the web designers are trying to make the site more "phone friendly"
but unfortunately, what they have done is simply make it more
cumbersome to use for All users, "phone people" included.
We, like everyone else, are waiting to see what, if anything, they
are going to do about this matter..... They really need to get
on it, as the site is simply awful as it is....
26 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 29 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN LAGOS
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, May 26, 2023,
arrested 28 suspected internet fraudsters in Lagos.
The suspects are: Marcus Bode Daramola, Shobayo Tosin Micheal,
Toheeb Akinde Opeyemi, Lawal Ojima Labran, Otutu Chibuzor Solomon,
Christian Walter Divine, Amos O. Toluyemi, Shittu Babatunde Marvelous,
Oluwafemi Samuel Adebowale, Kingsley Agu Chidiebere, Tolulope David
Olagunde and Dika Courage Ramsey.
Others are: Jonathan Ajemigi, Daramola Peter Olaoluwa, Samuel
Emmanuel Miracle, Adewunmi Domilare Enitan, Aderiyi Qonniy,
Lawrence K. Success, Ayorinde Habeeb A., Christian N. Walter,
Adekuoroye Sunday Adebayo, Emmanuel Christian, Otutu Wisdom,
Agu Frank Emeka, Qudus Adedeji Adeniyi, Aaron Bako Kantiok,
Shittu Mayowa Samuel, Salako Ayomide Amos and Sodiq Ajao
They were arrested at Buena Vista Estate, Orchid Road, Lekki,
Lagos State, following intelligence report on the activities
of some individuals suspected to be involved in computer-related
frauds.
Upon their arrest, items such as exotic vehicles, mobile devices
and laptop computers were recovered from them.
The suspects have volunteered their statements and will be
charged to court once investigations are concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-29-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-lagos
****************************************
26 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS SUSPECTS WHO IMPERSONATED ACTOR FREDRICK
LEONARD AND OBTAINED £38,000 FOR NON-EXISTENT FILM PRODUCTION
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested the duo of
Charles Osaigbovo and Evans Obayaedo, who impersonated
Nigerian actor and movie producer, Fredrick Leonard, for
their alleged involvement in love scam, computer-related
fraud and obtaining money under false pretence to the tune
of £38,000.
The suspects were arrested, following a petition written
by a British national, against Leonard.
The petitioner alleged that she met Leonard on the social
media platform, TikTok, and later became lovers.
She also alleged that Leonard approached her with a proposal
to invest in a film production.
According to her, a sum of £38,000 was transferred to the
suspects as investment in the purported film production.
She petitioned the EFCC after she realized she had been duped
and all efforts to recover her money yielded no result.
Investigations revealed that the suspects, who were later
arrested in Ibadan, Oyo State, had been impersonating Leonard
to defraud unsuspecting people on social media.
The suspects will be charged to court once the investigation
is concluded.
The press relase contains photos:
efcc-arrests-suspects-who-impersonated-actor-fredrick-leonard-and-obtained-38-000-for-non-existent-film-production
************************************
26 MAY 2023
LOVE SCAM: MAN CONVICTED FOR IMPERSONATION IN KADUNA
Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court sitting
in Kaduna, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 convicted and sentenced
one Bature Japhet to two years imprisonment on a one count
charge bordering on romance scam.
The suspect was arrested by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, around Karji
area, in Kaduna state following intelligence on his alleged
internet fraud-related activities.
The one count charge reads: “that you, Bature Japhet (aka
JOHNMIKE430) on or about the 18th of April, 2023 at Karji,
Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
falsely presented yourself as JOHNMIKE430 and in such assumed
character Impersonated one JOHNMIKE430 (a US citizen) via
your Gmail binanceapphelp@gmail.com account and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section
142(1) of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017”.
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read
to him.
Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced him to two years
imprisonment or a fine of N150,000.
He is to also forfeit an Apple iPhone XR to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
love-scam-man-convicted-for-impersonation-in-kaduna
*************************************
26 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRAIGNS ONE FOR EMPLOYMENT SCAM IN SOKOTO
The Sokoto Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, arraigned one
Muhammad Shehu Dambuwa before Justice Abubakar Adamu of the
Sokoto State High Court on one-count charge bordering on
cheating to the tune of N1,000,000.00 (One Million Naira only).
The charge reads, "That you, Muhammad Shehu Dambuwa sometime
in May, 2022 in Sokoto within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, with intent to defraud, did dishonestly induce one Usman
Muhammad Maiturare to deliver to you the sum of N1,000,000.00
(One Million Naira) while misrepresenting that you had employment
offers into the "Nigerian Ports Authority" to give to Usman
Maiturare, a fact you knew was false and thereby committed an
offence of cheating contrary to Section 310(1)(a) of the Sokoto S
tate Penal Code Law 2019 and punishable under Section 311 of
the same Act".
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was
read to him.
In view of his plea, prosecuting counsel, P. A Attah prayed
the court to remand the defendant in a Correctional Centre
and fix a date for commencement of trial.
Justice Adamu admitted the Dambuwa to bail in the sum of
N5, 000,000 (Five Million Naira) with a surety in like sum.
The surety must deposit a landed property document worth
N10 million within the jurisdiction of the court.
He adjourned the matter till June 8, 2023 for commencement
of trial.
efcc-arraigns-one-for-employment-scam-in-sokoto
****************************************
25 MAy 2023
ALLEGED INTERNET FRAUD: EFCC ARRESTS 44 SUSPECTS
IN BENIN CITY
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday May 23, 2023,
arrested 44 suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City.
The suspects were arrested in different locations following
actionable intelligence on their alleged internet fraud-related
activities.
However, 33 of the suspects were found to have questions to
answer after being profiled. They are Emmanuel Jimmy, Wisdom
Osazuwa, Emmanuel Osaretin, Destiny Nonso, Michael Ekeh, Uzoma
Okoligwe, Emmanuel Ebushi, Oyegun Osadebamwen, Christain Amhazioya,
Azegbeyele Francis, Osarobo Junior, Anyanwu Miracle, and Louis
Osahenie.
Others are Ezerhume Jude Osomieneshi, Happy Daniel and Maro
Oghenekohwo. Others are Kelvin Ifeanyi Anere, Igwe Favour,
Gabriel Okpolor, Ogbeifun Prince, Timothy Nawamgbe, Onakofure
Augustine, Osakpamwen Gaius, Nonso Prince Onuoha, Emmanuel
Efetobor, Emmanuel Usifoh, Endurance Azeke, Ojo Destiny,
Justice Aifo, Collins Etiosa Ihkuoretin, Victor Ohenhen
Ikponmuosa, Godspower Oghenekohwo and Amos Onakpofure.
Items recovered from the suspects include 25 exotic cars -
three Lexus EX350, six Lexus RX330, five Mercedes Benz ML
350, one Toyota Camry, one Lexus IS250, four Mercedes Benz
C300, One Toyota Venza, one Toyota Highlander, two Toyota
Corolla, mobile phones and laptops.
The suspects have made useful statement and will be charged
to court soon.
The press release contains photos:
alleged-internet-fraud-efcc-arrests-44-suspects-in-benin-city
******************************************
25 MAY 2023
ALLEGED $5M FRAUD: COURT ADJOURNS TRIAL OF PILOT,
BUSINESSMAN TILL MAY 31
Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, adjourned till
May 31, 2023 further hearing in the trial of the duo of Victor
Uadiale and Capt. Everest Nnaji over an alleged $5m fraud.
The defendants are being prosecuted by the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for an amended five-count
charge bordering on conspiracy and obtaining by false pretence
to the tune of $5 million.
Justice Dada had, on March 23, 2023 ,dismissed the no-case
submission filed by the defendants as lacking merit and also
ordered them to open their defence today( May 24, 2023).
One of the counts reads: "That you, Victor Uadiale (aka
Victor Emeka/Amaka Emeka), Captain Everest Nnaji and Ismail
Lawal (now at large), between 22nd April and 12th day of
October 1998, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the
aggregate sum of $1,292,000.00 (One Million, Two Hundred
and Ninety-two Thousand United States Dollar) from Tawfeeq
A. Al-Omar, a Kuwaiti national, by falsely representing
to him that the said sum represented payment for Urea
Phosphate fertilizer, which you claimed was procured from
National Fertilizer Company of Nigeria (NAFCON), Port
Harcourt and Bonny Light crude oil, which pretext you
knew to be false and committed an offence contrary to
Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud
Related Offences Act, No. 13 of 1995 as amended by Act
No. 62 of 1999."
They pleaded "not guilty" to the charges preferred against
them when they were first arraigned on December 14, 2018,
and maintained the same plea to the amended charges.
The victim, Tawfeeq A. Al-Omar, a Kuwaiti national, had
testified as the first prosecution witness, and narrated
how he unwittingly fell into the trap of parting with
his money.
At today’s proceedings, the first defendant, Uadiale, who
took to the dock to defend himself, denied knowing the Al-Omar,
as well as Nnaji, the second defendant, with whom he is standing
trial.
Led in evidence by his counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, Uadiale,
who described himself as a businessman, said: "I don't know
the second defendant and I only met him at the EFCC facility.
"I don't also know Tawfeeq Al-Omar and all the allegations
are like a drama, a story from the pit of hell.
"The very first day that I was confronted with the allegations,
I told the EFCC operatives that I do not know this man, and I
have no idea whether he existed.
"All the allegations during the course of this trial are
fabricated lies and I re-affirm that I do not know this man."
Earlier in the course of the proceedings, Ojo had moved an
application seeking the leave of the court to appeal the
ruling of the trial judge dismissing the no-case submission
of his client.
Counsel for the second defendant, Olanrewaju Fagbohun, SAN,
also moved the same application on behalf of his client.
The prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, raised no
objection.
The applications were afterwards granted by the trial judge,
who noted that, for a criminal matter, they needed not to seek
the leave of the court with regard to appealing the ruling.
The case was adjourned till May 31, 2023 for continuation
of trial.
alleged-5m-fraud-court-adjourns-trial-of-pilot-businessman-till-may-31
*****************************************
25 MAY 2023
COURT JAILS TEN INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN CALABAR
The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Monday, May 22, 2023 secured the conviction
of ten(10) internet fraudsters before Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu
of the Federal High Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State.
The convicts are: Isaac Uchenna Akuma, Praise Lucky Moses,
Joel Akanimo, Afia Emediong Godwin, Archibong Unyime Inyang,
Kelechi Richard Udochi, Prince Edet Okon, Promise Benedict
Okon, Victor Eze and Emmanuel Imoh Archibong.
They were all arraigned on separate two-count charges except
Archibong who was arraigned on one-count charge bordering on
fraudulent impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
One of the charges read: “That you, Joel Akanimoh “M” sometime
in 2023 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
take possession and control of $1200 (One Thousand, Two Hundred
United States Dollars) intentionally, knowing that the money
formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to wit; obtaining
money by false pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section 18 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and
Prohibition) Act and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the
same Act”
They all pleaded guilty when the charges were read to them
separately. In view of their pleas, prosecutors S. S Aribido
and J. E. I. Ogbuli, prayed the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
However, defence counsel, E. E. Osim, Koko Essien, Udeme Tom
and S. E. Omenyi prayed the court to temper justice with mercy
in sentencing their clients who according to them “are first-time
offenders”.
Justice Ojukwu, after listening to both sides, convicted and
sentenced nine of the defendants to six months imprisonment each,
with an option of fine of N1,000, 000 ( One Million Naira), except
Archibong who was sentenced to six months imprisonment with an
option of fine of N500, 000( Five Hundred Thousand Naira)fine.
Having spent more than the term in prison custody, Archibong
was released by the court.
The court further ordered that the convicts restitute as follows:
Akuma to restitute the sum of $205 to his victim, Moses $1000 to
his victims; Akanimo $1200 to his victims; Godwin $200 to his
victims; Inyang $100 to his victim; Udochi N230,000.00 to his
victims and Okon the sum of N820,000.00 to his victims. Others
are, Promise who was ordered to restitute $1500 Canadian dollars
or its equivalent in Naira to his victims and Eze sum of $800
to his victims.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-ten-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar
*************************************
22 MAY 2023
BEWARE OF SCAM ALERT
The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, has been drawn to a Scam Alert, trending in the social
media, which purportedly emanated from EFCC Help Desk Headquarters,
Jabi-Abuja.
For the avoidance of doubt, EFCC has no such desk and any
information which supposedly emanated from the said EFCC HELP
DESK, did not originate from the EFCC.
The use of EFCC by the authors of the Scam Alert, smacks of
sinister motives and it is important that the public is put
on notice, as the Commission will not be liable should anyone
becomes a victim of what is obviously a scam.
We urge the public to be circumspect and cross check any
doubtful information with the Commission.
The EFCC can be reached through the hotline: +2348093322644;
or by email: info@efcc.gov.ng.
Messages can also be sent to the Commission's verified social
media platforms - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. All share
the same address: @officialefcc.
beware-of-scam-alert
***********************************
19 MAY 2023
KWARA COURT JAILS TWO "YAHOO" BOYS IN ILORIN
Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court, Ilorin
has sentenced two persons to six months imprisonment for
offences bordering on internet fraud.
The convicts are; Jamiu Ishola Lekan from Ilorin South Local
Government Area of Kwara State and Olarewaju Adisa Taofeek
from Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC had arraigned the duo before Justice Yusuf
on separate charges bordering on cheating by personation,
contrary to Section 321 and punishable under Section 324
of the Penal Code Law.
Jamiu was arraigned on a one count charge while Olarewaju
was prosecuted on two counts.
The charge against Jamiu reads: "That you, Jamiu Ishola Lekan,
sometime in December 2022 in Ilorin, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, did cheat by personation by pretending
to be one Stella Collins, a white American female citizen with
email address gwartneylykewmqd4263@gmail.com and in that guise
induced one Dickson, to send you the sum of $257 (Two Hundred
and Fifty Seven US Dollars) paid via Vanilla Card and thereby
committed an offence contrary to section 321 of the Penal Code
Law and punishable under section 324 of the Penal Code Law"
Count 1 of the charge against Olarewaju reads,"That you, Olarewaju
Adisa Taofeek, sometime in December 2022 in Ilorin within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did cheat by personation
by pretending to be a white American Male citizen with email address
kihn.daijasdfsd@gmail.com and profile name ddf hf and on that guise
induced one Berry Acosta to send to you the sum of $800 (Eight
Hundred US Dollars) via Cashapp and thereby committed an offence
contrary to section 321 of the Penal Code Law and punishable
under section 324 of the Penal Code Law "
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charge.
Following their pleas, Anselm Ozioko Jnr. who prosecuted the
cases on behalf of the EFCC, reviewed the facts of the cases
through two witnesses who are Operatives of the Commission.
He tendered the extra-judicial statements of the defendants
as well as exhibits recovered from them at the point of arrest
and same were admitted in evidence.
In his submission, Ozioko urged the Court to convict the defendants
based on the guilty plea and exhibits tendered.
Justice Yusuf while passing his judgement agreed with the position
of the EFCC that the prosecution had proved its cases beyond reasonable
doubt and convicted the defendants as charged.
Justice Yusuf sentenced Jamiu to six months imprisonment with an
option of fine of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only). The judge
ordered that one iPhone 6x plus which the convict used to perpetrate
the crime and the sum of $257 ( Two Hundred and Fifty Seven US Dollars)
which he benefited from his criminal conduct be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
Olarewaju on the other hand bagged six months imprisonment with an
option of fine of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only) on each of the
two counts. The judge in addition, ordered that one iPhone 12 Pro
Max and the sum of $200 (Two Hundred US Dollars) be forfeited to
the Federal Government
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
kwara-court-jails-two-yahoo-boys-in-ilorin
***********************************
19 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRAIGNS FARMER FOR N2M EMPLOYMENT SCAM
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 arraigned one Zakari
Muhammad before Justice A.A Bello of the Kaduna State High Court
on a 3 counts charge bordering on employment scam.
The defendant allegedly collected the sum of N 2,000,000 (Two
Million Naira) from a victim with promise to secure him a job
with the Petroleum Equalisation Fund ( PEF).
Investigation revealed that the monies were paid in two tranches
into the suspects account. He neither facilitated the job offer
nor refund the victim.
The charge reads, “that Zakari Muhammad sometime in September,
2021 in Kaduna within the judicial division of this Honourable
Court with intent to defraud, did obtain the sum of N 2,000,000
(Two Million Naira) only from one Sa'idu Bashir Amin when you
presented yourself to him that you are capable of securing a
job for him with the Petroleum Equalisation Fund ( PEF) which
pretence you knew to be false and you 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 not guilty to the charge.
Consequently, the prosecuting counsel, M.U Gadaka urged the
court to fix a date for commencement of hearing while the
defence counsel, Y.M Rabiu urged the court to grant bail to
his client.
Justice Bello granted the defendant bail in the sum of One
Million Naira and a surety in like sum, who must be a Civil
Servant on Grade 14, residing within the jurisdiction of the
court and own a landed property covered by a Certificate
of Occupancy.
The case has been adjourned till July, 12, 2023 for commencement
of trial.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-farmer-for-n2m-employment-scam
****************************************
19 MAY 2023
26 INTERNET FRAUD SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Command, today, May 18, 2023, arrested 26 suspected internet
fraudsters. They are Favour Obinna, Chinaza Onuigbo, Abdulrahman
Ibrahim, Suleiman Daude, Ali Daude, Godwin Ifeanyi, Victor Ageme
and Enoch Alfa. Others are Wisdom Ndubuisi, Matthew Gideon, Stanly
Kosi, Japhet Akogun, James Efegha, Christopher Enaho, Daniel Benjamin
and Idris Salvation.
Also arrested are Idris Victor, Ikechukwu Ephraim Idris,Abdullahi
Sani, Jeremiah Yacim, Chindu Chukwuma, Mohammed Daude Hamisu,
Tochukwu Trust, Theophilus Marshal, Sani Solomon and Chukwu Nnaemeka
Oscar.
The suspects were picked up in Kubwa, a suburb of Abuja.
Items recovered from them include a Toyota Camry SE, a Mercedes
Benz GLK 350 and 2 Lexus IS 250 cars, mobile phones and laptops.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains photos:
26-internet-fraud-suspects-arrested-in-abuja
*********************************************
19 MAY 2023
BAWA ADVOCATES MORE INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION IN ASSET
RECOVERY EFFORTS …WARNS NIGERIANS LAUNDERING MONEY IN SAUDI
ARABIA TO HAVE RETHINK
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission (EFCC) Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa today in Riyadh, Saudi
Arabia called for enhanced international collaboration in asset
recovery efforts.
He made the plea while signing a memorandum of understanding,
MoU with the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (NAZAHA)
of Saudi Arabia, a development which marked a significant
milestone in strengthening international partnerships to
address the complex challenges posed by corruption. The
event was a follow up to the EFCC Chairman’s participation
in the Ministerial Meeting of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement
Authorities in the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC)
Member States in December, 2022 to adopt the Makkah Al-Mukarramah
Convention, where the two agencies had resolved to reinforce
their commitment to combat corruption with an MoU.
The NAZAHA is the lead anti-corruption agency in Saudi Arabia
and shoulders the responsibility of safeguarding integrity in
both public and private sectors. The agency plays a crucial
role in combating corruption, gathering data, and compiling
statistics on agencies falling under its purview, while also
coordinating anti-corruption efforts across the public and
private sectors.
A significant component of the visit was the sharing of experiences
and insights on asset recovery. The EFCC, recognized as a global
leader in this domain, delivered a special presentation on its
extensive expertise in asset recovery.
During a presentation, the EFCC boss underscored the factors that
contribute to a successful asset recovery regime, emphasizing the
criticality of access to relevant information through intelligence
-gathering and seamless information exchange with partner law
enforcement agencies, as well as regional and international networks.
Significantly, Bawa highlighted the instrumental role of West
Africa's Network of National Anti-Corruption Agencies (NACIWA),
an esteemed network which he currently leads, in facilitating
regular law enforcement cooperation, joint investigations, and
coordinated efforts in asset recovery and extradition.
Emphasizing the need for a robust legal framework, Bawa further
identified the critical role of comprehensive laws for prosecuting
both conviction and non-conviction-based asset forfeiture, adding
that such legal measures would serve as a deterrent and enable
the recovery of stolen assets for public good.
He further reiterated the significance of trust-building among
law enforcement agencies and stressed the importance of global
heads of law enforcement agencies establishing strong relationships
amongst themselves, based on trust and shared goals in combating
corruption.
The EFCC Chair warned Nigerians laundering money in Saudi Arabia
should have a rethink.
In his closing statement, Mr. Mazen bin Ibrahim bin Mohammed
Al-Kahmous, the President of NAZAHA, expressed gratitude to the
EFCC Chairman for the extensive and insightful presentation,
which shed light on the EFCC's invaluable experiences in the
field of asset recovery. He extended a request for an expanded
experience-sharing visit by the EFCC's asset recovery experts
to the Saudi Anti-Corruption agency which will provide an
opportunity for both agencies to delve further into the
intricate workings of the international asset recovery legal
framework, allowing for more in-depth discussions and collaboration.
Before returning to Nigeria, Bawa will also have the privilege
of visiting the Saudi Ministry of Finance for a presentation
on the renowned E-Procurement Platform, Etimad. This interactive
session will serve as an opportunity to exchange experiences
and discuss effective strategies to combat corruption in public
procurement.
The Saudi Government has successfully implemented Etimad, as a
way of mitigating the risk of corruption in procurement-related
matters.
This visit of the Executive Chairman to Saudi Arabia reflects
the EFCC's unwavering commitment to combating corruption and
strengthening international partnerships. By sharing best
practices, exchanging knowledge, and fostering trust, the
EFCC and NAZAHA have paved the way for enhanced cooperation,
ensuring the recovery of stolen assets and holding criminals
accountable.
The press release contains a photo:
bawa-advocates-more-international-collaboration-in-asset-recovery-efforts-warns-nigerians-laundering-money-in-saudi-arabia-to-have-rethink
419 Coalition Comment: Let us translate the above verbosity for you:
Each successive Nigerian Government wants the return of as much money
stolen from the Nigerian people, by both public and private sector
criminals, as it can get. In order to get this, the Nigerian Government
promises to work assiduously to return monies stolen from the people
of Other countries by Nigerian criminals, both public and private.
The problem is..... Nigeria has for Decades done a Terrible job
of recovering and repatriating monies stolen by Nigerian criminals,
public and private, to the citizens of Other countries from whom
it is stolen. Only a fraction of 419ed monies are ever recovered,
and of the monies recovered, only a fraction is ever repatriated.
Bottom line in translation of the above article is... Give us Our
money in Fact, and we'll give you Your money in Fiction. Oh, the
irony of it all.... the sheer hypocrisy of successive Nigerian
governments in the matter of recovery and repatriation over the
years continues to be simply mind boggling....
**************************************************
19 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS FIVE SUSPECTED YAHOO BOYS, THREE
COUNTERFEITERS IN BORNO, YOBE STATES
Operatives of the Maiduguri Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, May 17,
2023, arrested three suspected currency counterfeiting
syndicate members operating in Gashua, Bade Local Government
area of Yobe State.
The suspects apprehended with assistance from the Nigeria
Security and Civil Defence Corp and Local Vigilance group are
Shamsudeen Abubakar, Usman Warima Duna and Ismail Abdullahi.
Items recovered from the suspects include eighteen pieces of
suspected counterfeited N1000 notes, thirteen (13) pieces of
old N20 notes, nine (9) pieces of old N5 notes, two (2) Coca-
Cola bottles containing liquid substances suspected to be
mercury and other counterfeiting devices.
In another development, the Maiduguri Zonal Command arrested
five (5) suspected internet fraudsters around Pompamari Bypass,
Maiduguri, Borno State.
The suspects include James Samuel Sharma, John Jafaru, Habila
Ishaku Dzarma, Edmond Gilbert Nyaku and Nuhu Bitrus.
Items recovered from them include one Vibe Pontiac Car with
chassis no. 5y2sl658x6z445626 and registration no. ASU 74AA,
and different brands of mobile phones.
The suspects will be arraigned in court as soon as the
investigation is concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-five-suspected-yahoo-boys-three-counterfeiters-in-borno-yobe-states
***************************************
19 MAY 2023
COURT CONVICTS YAHOO TRAINER, ONE OTHER FOR CYBERCRIMES
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction of the duo of James
Mark, aka Markscofield176 and Japhet Peter, aka Chafrin Bryan
before Justice A.A Bello of the Kaduna State High Court, Kaduna
on a one count charge bordering on internet fraud.
The convicts were arrested at different locations within Kaduna
metropolis, for alleged cybercrime offences. One of the convicts,
James Mark allegedly runs a Yahoo Academy where he trains youngsters
in the craft of trickery and fraud in cyberspace.
One of the charge reads, “ Mark (aka Markscofield176), sometimes
March 2023 in Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court committed an offence to wit; falsely presented yourself as
Markscofield176 ( a citizen of the United State of America) 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 other reads, “Japhet Peter ( a.k.a CHAFRIN BRYAN ) on or about
the 20th of April, 2023 at Zeecool Hotel, Banawa, Kaduna within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court falsely presented yourself
as CHAFRIN BRYAN and in such assumed character impersonated one CHAFRIN
BRYAN ( a U S citizen ) via your Facebook account and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 142(1)
of the Kaduna state Penal Code Law, 2017”
They pleaded guilty to the charges. The Prosecuting counsel, M.E
Eimonye and M. Arumeni urged the court to convict them accordingly.
Justice Bello convicted and sentenced them to two years imprisonment
with an option of N 200,000 and 150,000 fine respectively.
They are to forfeit their phones which is includes, a black Samsung
with IMEI No. 3592731578398, one Infinix Note 10 with IMEI No.
399273157878466, a blue Samsung phone, an iPhone 13 Pro Max with
IMEI 35637016335603, iPhone XR with IMEI No. 356422108520194 and
one MacBook laptop with model No. A2338 serial No. FVFGJ15VQ05D
to the Federal Government of Nigeria
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-convicts-yahoo-trainer-one-other-for-cybercrimes
*************************************
19 MAY 2023
COURT CONVICT YAHOO BOY FOR IMPERSONATION IN MAKURDI
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, May 18, 2023, secured the conviction
of one Samuel Kubiala Aboh, before Justice Abdul Dogo of the Federal
High Court sitting in Makurdi on a one count charge bordering on
impersonation.
Kubiala was arrested by operatives of the Commission on January 28,
2022 at Lafia, Nassarawa State in relation to internet fraud activities.
One count charge: "That you, Samuel Kubiala Aboh "M" (19) years, on
or about January 2023 in Lafia Nasarawa State, within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, sends electronic
messages through Instagram account to wit; goddess_alicia_maria_996677
and goggsessalicia1_ by disguising as foreign female and a spiritual
priestess to Jasmine Giselle, Chantavia Shanice Smith and Sandra
Dempsey which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence
contrary to and punishable under Section 14(2) of the Cybercrime
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015".
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him. Upon his
plea, the prosecution counsel A. S. Idris, prayed the court to convict
and sentence him as charged.
Consequently, Justice Dogo convicted and sentenced him to one year
imprisonment with an option of N500,000 fine. He was ordered to forfeit
his iPhone 11 Pro Max model MWFC2LL/A and Tecno Spark 8c which he used
to commit the offence to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-convict-yahoo-boy-for-impersonation-in-makurdi
**********************************************
19 MAY 2023
CALABAR COURT SENDS THREE UNDERGRADUATES TO JAIL
Justice Rosemary Oghoghorie of the Fedral High Court sitting
in Calabar, Cross River State, has jailed three undergraduates
of Akwa Ibom State University, for offences bordering on internet
fraud.
The convicts; Akpan Emmanuel Jacob, Covenant Samuel Edoho and
Akpakaden Mfoniso Simeon were arraigned on separate two-count
charges bordering on fraudulent impersonation and obtaining by
false pretence.
One of the counts reads: “That you, Covenant Samuel Edoho “M”
sometime in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did take possession and control of N200,000.00 (Two Hundred
Thousand Naira only) intentionally, knowing that the money formed
part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to wit; obtaining money
by false pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 18 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and
Prohibition) Act and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the
same Act”.
They pleaded guilty when the charges were separately read to them,
and in view of their pleas, prosecution counsel S. S. Aribido,
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
Justice Oghoghorie, after listening to their pleas, convicted
and sentenced them to one year imprisonment each with an option
of fine of N500,000.00( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) each. They
were also ordered to forfeit their phones, which should be sold
and the proceeds paid into the Consolidated Revenue Account of
the government.
Justice Oghoghorie further ordered the convicts to restitute the
following sums to their victims through the EFCC: Jacob to restitute
$250(Two Hundred and Fifty United States Dollars), Simeon $200 and
Edoho N200,000.00( Two Hundred Thousand Naira). They were remanded
at the Calabar Correctional facility, pending their compliance with
the conditions specified in the court judgment.
The convicts began their journey to the Correctional Centre when
they met their waterloo on April 28, 2023 through operatives of
the Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC. They were arrested at different
locations within Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, for
internet- related offences. They were later prosecuted and convicted.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
calabar-court-sends-three-undergraduates-to-jail
******************************************
17 MAY 2023
ALLEGED $1.4MILLION FRAUD: COURT ADJOURNS BUSINESSMAN'S
TRIAL TILL JUNE 27
Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos, on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, adjourned till June 27, 2023 for
final hearing in the alleged $1.4million fraud involving one Kolawole
Adedayo Erinle and his firm, Rinde-Remdex Nigeria Limited.
Erinle and his company are 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).
The defendant is accused of defrauding the Kansas City University
of Medicine and Biosciences, KCUMB, in the United States of about
$1,412,509 United States Dollars.
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.
The defendant, who opened his defence on Monday, May 15, 2023, denied
the charges against him, while being led in evidence by his counsel,
Lawal Pedro, SAN.
He claimed that there was actually such Edward Dada, contrary to the
evidence presented by the prosecution.
He also told the court that he, indeed, met the said Dada "in person
when he came to Nigeria from the United States."
"I met him and I spoke with him. He told me that he resides in Texas,
and he made me aware that he is a citizen of Nigeria and the United
States.
"It was around November to December 2018 at a burial of a family friend,
where he was introduced to me.
"I told him that I am into real estate and that I need investors," he
had said.
He said they exchanged contacts and said Dada, after travelling back
to the US, later asked for his company's bank account details, to which
he transferred $1,410,000 to him, using his own bank account in the US.
Under cross-examination by the prosecution counsel, T.J. Banjo, during
today’s proceedings, he admitted to have been convicted in the U.S. for
bank fraud, where he was sentenced to a 27-month jail-term and equally
served his term.
He further confirmed that his firm received the $1,410,000 through
Edada Autoparts, a company belonging to the said Dada.
He also confirmed that he was the one who withdrew the money from the
account of Rinde-Remdex Nigeria Limited, his firm, and shared the same
to different other accounts.
He, however, claimed that he withdrew the money because the said Dada
said he was no longer interested in investing in his real estate business.
He said he had to withdraw the money and convert it to Naira, adding
that he handed over the money back to the said Dada.
"We haven't started developing the portion I allocated to Mr. Edward
Dada and it was cut short because he said he was no longer interested,
as he pulled out of the contract," he said.
He further claimed that he returned "all the $1,410,000 to Mr. Edward
Dada and that's why there's no lawsuit from him."
When questioned further by the prosecution, he could not present any
document to show that he indeed returned money to the said Dada, nor
did he give details as to where and how he returned all the money.
Thereafter, Pedro called the second witness, one Musa Akande, who
claimed that he never had any business with the said Dada, but that
the defendant actually told him about him, “as he and the defendant
were both into real estate business and had known each other since
2016.”
"The defendant just mentioned it to me, but how the relationship
started and ended, I don't know," he said.
Under cross-examination, he said that what he told the court was what
he was told by the defendant.
The case was adjourned till June 27, 2023 "for final hearing".
alleged-1-4million-fraud-court-adjourns-businessman-s-trial-till-june-2
*******************************************
16 MAY 2023
MONEY LAUNDERING: COURT ADJOURNS MOMPHA’S TRIAL
TILL JULY 3
Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court Sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos, on Monday, May 15, 2023, adjourned till July
3, 2023 further hearing in the alleged N6bn fraud trial involving
Ismaila Mustapha, also known as Mompha, due to the absence of
his lawyer.
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on January 12, 2022 arraigned Mompha alongside
his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited, on an eight-count
charge bordering on conspiracy to launder funds obtained through
unlawful activity, retention of proceeds of criminal conduct,
laundering of funds obtained through unlawful activity, failure
to disclose assets and property, possession of documents containing
false pretence and use of property derived from unlawful act.
One of the counts reads: "Ismaila Mustapha, Ahmadu Mohammed (at
large) and Ismalob Global Investment Limited, sometime in 2016,
in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
conspired amongst yourselves to conduct financial transactions
to the tune of N5,998,884,653.18 ( Five Billion Nine Hundred and
Ninety-eight Million Eight Hundred and Eighty-four Thousand Six
Hundred and Fifty-three Naira Eighteen Kobo), with the intent
of promoting the carrying on of specified unlawful activities
to wit: obtaining by false pretence."
He pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.
The EFCC had, at the proceedings of June 10, 2022, informed the
court that Mompha was in possession of another passport aside the
one submitted to the court, as part of his bail conditions and
that he had used same to travel from Ghana to Dubai on April 11,
2022 via Emirates Airlines in violation of the court order.
Consequently, Justice Dada had revoked the N25 million bail
variation granted to him, and also issued a bench warrant for
his arrest over his failure to appear in court.
The EFCC had also declared him wanted.
However, since June 16, 2022, Mompha has absconded from the trial,
even as the EFCC continued with efforts to secure his arrest and
appearance in court.
Following his continued absence in court and the inability of the
prosecution as well as the defence to produce him in court, Justice
Dada had, on September 22, 2022, ordered that the trial would
continue in absentia.
At today's proceedings, the counsel for the EFCC, S.I. Suleiman,
informed the court that the prosecution, in collaboration with its
international partners, had secured the arrest of the defendant.
"We would like to bring to the knowledge of my lord that, in
collaboration with our international partners, we have been able
to apprehend him, and we plan to take him into custody and to
produce him before the court," he said.
He also told the court that the counsel for the defendant "reached
out to me seeking an adjournment that he would be absent today."
Justice Dada adjourned till Monday, July 3, 2023 for continuation
of trial.
money-laundering-court-adjourns-mompha-s-trial-till-july-3
******************************************
16 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS NINE SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN UYO
Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on May 7, 2023, arrested nine (9) suspected
internet fraudsters around Itam Police Station Road in Uyo, Akwa
Ibom State.
The suspects are; Victor Etiowo, George Vincent, Daniel Joshua,
Lambert Joshua, Johnny Jimmy, Elijah Asuquo Ekwere, Amos Cosmos,
Otobong Emmanuel and Enomfon Jackson Akpabio.
They were arrested following actionable intelligence concerning
their alleged online criminal activities at the said location.
Items recovered from them include different brands of mobile
phones.
The suspects will be arraigned in court as soon as the
investigations are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-nine-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-uyo
***************************************
16 MAY 2023
KWARA COURT JAILS GRAPHICS DESIGNER FOR ROMANCE SCAM
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction of
one Muhammed Awal for presenting and representing himself
as a white woman to defraud unsuspecting victims.
Muhammed who hails from Ilorin South Local Government Area
of Kwara State was convicted and sentenced to six months
imprisonment by Justice Adebayo Yusuf of a Kwara State High
Court, Ilorin, having found him guilty of a one count charge
levelled against him by the EFCC.
The charge against him reads. ‘That you, Muhammed Awal, sometime
between the months of November , 2022 and January, 2023 in Ilorin
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did cheat by
personation when you pretended to be one Mc-Kay from Atlanta
Georgia, USA and fraudulently deceived one Adam Rochelle, through
your WhatsApp account number +2347047513686, to send the sum of
$1,600.00 (One Thousand, Six Hundred Dollars) which you did
received via gift cards, under the guise that you were a lady
in romantic relationship with him and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to section 321 of the Penal Code and punishable
under section 324 of the same law”.
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge
Following his plea, Mukhtar Mustapha Kaigama who prosecuted the
case on behalf of the Commission reviewed the facts of the case
through a witness, Chukwuemeka Amadi Idam, an operative of the
EFCC. The witness narrated how the defendant was arrested based
on intelligence and tendered his Samsung X10 phone, the fraudulent
messages printed from his devices as well as his extra-judicial
statement which were admitted in evidence.
Kaigama therefore urged the court to consider the plea of the
defendant, the extra-judicial statements and all the exhibits
tendered and hold that the prosecution has proved its case and
convict the defendant as charged.
Delivering judgment, Justice Yusuf held that the court was
satisfied with the case of the prosecution and pronounced
Muhammed guilty of the allegation levelled against him.
The Judge sentenced the defendant to six months imprisonment
with option of fine of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only).
In addition, the convict will forfeit the Samsung phone which
he used to perpetrate the crime to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
kwara-court-jails-graphics-designer-for-romance-scam
**************************************
16 MAY 2023
COURT SENDS SIX INTERNET FRAUDSTERS TO JAIL IN BENIN CITY
Six internet fraudsters: Akinnodi Oyindamola, Akinlade Oluwole
Stephen, Adekunle Junior Adeyemi, Iyeke Ochuko Prince, Ojo
Oluwagbenga Emmanuel and Prince Onogbake were on Monday, May
15, 2023, convicted and sentenced to prison by Justice Efe
Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City.
They were arraigned separately by the Benin Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on one count charge
of possession of fraudulent documents.
The charge against Oyindamola reads. “That you, Akinnodi Oyindamola
(M) on or about the 28th day of April, 2023 in Benin City, Edo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did have in your
possession documents which you knew or ought to have known contain
false pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
6, read together with Section 8 (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 defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charges prompting the prosecution counsel, F.A. Jirbo to ask the
court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendants Pascal Ugbome and B.A. Ambrose 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 each of the defendants
to three years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand
Naira fine.
Justice Ikponmwonba ordered that the balance in the GT bank account
belonging to Oyindamola, three (3) Apple laptops, one Toyota Camry,
one black Lexus 350, one Lexus RX 350; the sum of N260, 000.00 (Two
Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) recovered from Prince Onogbake and
phones being proceeds and instruments of crime be forfeited to the
Federal Government of Nigeria through the EFCC.
The judge further ordered that the bank accounts used as instruments
of crime be closed. The defendants are to also undertake in writing
to be of good behaviour.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-six-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin-city
***************************************
16 MAY 2023
BAWA TASKS UNDERGRADUATES TO STAND UP AGAINST CORRUPTION
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, has called on university
undergraduates and youths across the country to stand up and join
hands with the Commission in its fight against corruption, economic
and financial crimes.
He made the call on Monday, May 15, 2023, while receiving members
of the Zero Tolerance for Corruption, Ahmadu Bello University,
Zaria who paid him a Courtesy Visit at the Corporate Headquarters
of the Commission.
Bawa spoke through Secretary to the Commission, Dr. George Ekpungu
and stressed that Nigerian students have every potential and power
to stoke the fire of anti- corruption.
“Students, especially Nigerian students are very powerful, you mould
yourself into what you are going to become from the university. The
role of students in the fight against corruption is very important,
both to the students as much as to the entire youths. If students and
the youths stand up against the vices of corruption, economic and
financial crimes, we could achieve a hundred percent in terms of
development and wellbeing for Nigerians", he said.
Ekpungu admitted that the task of fighting corruption was arduous
but rewarding, urging youths to offer their best shots in embracing
integrity and accountable conduct. "We have to determine what we
want to be, we are sitting on a very difficult national assignment
but like all of you have come to appreciate we are doing our best,
it is not easy", he said.
He called on students and other youths to stand shoulder to shoulder
with the EFCC as representatives of the Commission. “You fight with
the Commission, you fight for the Commission, when you hear EFCC
being mentioned in wrong terms, the Zero Tolerance Club should be
able to come out and say "No, they are doing this and that". This
is what this synergy is, so that you know what we are doing", he said.
He also pointed out that, ”the only way Nigeria can achieve its full
potential is when we all shun this vice of corruption, economic and
financial crimes.”
Responding, Chairman of the University's Zero Tolerance Club, Sabo
Salim, stated that the club is a platform for contributing in the
fight against corruption and related cases in the school. Besides,
"it is to promote a culture of patriotism, honesty, accountability,
morality among other students and to complement efforts of the EFCC".
He urged the EFCC to include members of the club in its activities
and offer them training and other support.
The press release contains photos:
bawa-tasks-undergraduates-to-stand-up-against-corruption
*****************************************
16 MAY 2023
COURT CONVICTS ONE FOR INTERNET FRAUD IN KADUNA
The Kaduna Zonal Command has secured the conviction of one
Triumph Abdul Yakubu before Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna
state High Court on a one count charge bordering on internet
fraud.
The charge reads, “That you, Triumph Abdul Yakubu (aka Kelvin
Costner) sometime in April, 2023 in Kaduna within the Kaduna
Judicial Division of the High Court with intent to defraud,
falsely presented yourself as one Kelvin Costner, a United
States of America (USA) citizen and in such assumed character
cheated one Greyxterra from Florida the sum of $400 Dollars
( Four Hundred Dollars ) through your Facebook and Instagram
accounts 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 charge. In view of his plea,
the prosecution counsel, E.K Garba urged the court to convict
him accordingly.
Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years
imprisonment with an option of fine of N 150,000 (One Hundred and
Fifty Thousand Naira).
He is also to forfeit the sum of $400USD and his Apple iPhone
Pro Max with Model No. GONPFD45D3Y which was used in committing
the offence to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
His journey to jail commenced when he was arrested at Rosalux
Hotel based on intelligence on his alleged criminal pursuits.
The press release comtains a photo of the 419er:
court-convicts-one-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
************************************
15 MAY 2023
EFCC INAUGURATES MORE INTEGRITY CLUBS IN LAGOS, MAKURDI
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Friday, May 12, 2023, inaugurated the EFCC
Integrity Club in Methodist Boys High School, Victoria Island,
Lagos.
Speaking on the occasion, the Executive Chairman of the EFCC,
Abdulrasheed Bawa, urged the students to be anti-corruption
ambassadors.
Bawa, who was represented by ACE 1 Michael T. Wetkas, Zonal
Commander, Lagos Command of EFCC, also urged the students to
uphold the core values of the Club, which are integrity,
discipline, honesty, and patriotism.
He said: “As students, youths and leaders of tomorrow, you
need to have deeper insights into the havocs being wreaked
on our nation by the monster of corruption.
“You are expected to channel your creative energies into useful
engagements and not into dishonest and dubious means of cheating
others of their resources.”
In his remarks, Umoh Felix, a teacher and patron of the Club,
expressed his gratitude to the EFCC for inaugurating the Club
in the school, while urging the students to shun any involvement
in acts of corruption and financial crimes.
According to him, “We are ready to partner with the EFCC in
the fight against economic and financial crimes by speaking up
against corrupt practices within the school and the environment
at large.”
About 250 students took oath of service alongside the executives.
The Head Boy of the School, Oche Ochefu, in his vote of thanks,
appreciated the EFCC for the honour done the school and pledged
to join the rest of students in lending their voices against
economic and financial crimes.
In a related development, another EFCC Integrity Club was inaugurated
at NKST Secondary School, High Level Makurdi, Benue State.
The Executive Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa who was represented by
Head, Public Affairs, Makurdi Zonal Command, CSE Adeniran Adebayo
Samuel, urged the students to be of exemplary conduct and to make
integrity their guide. "I hope that every member of the Club and
the entire school community will embrace the values and regulations
of the Club and in the process, make Nigeria better and greater,"
he said.
He urged the students to be Anti-Corruption ambassadors in their
school, community and the society at large. Thirty students took
the oath of service.
NKST School Principal, MrTyoor Terngu, commended the EFCC for
establishing the Club "we are happy that we are now part of the
EFCC Integrity Club and we promise to lead by example”.
The press release containa a photo:
efcc-inaugurates-more-integrity-clubs-in-lagos-makurdi
*******************************************
15 MAY 2023
TWO INTERNET FRAUDSTERS BAG TWO YEARS IMPRISONMENT
IN KADUNA
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, May 11, 2023, secured the convicted
of the duo of Salim Bashir and Khalid Ola Abdulwasiu before Justices
Darius Khobo and A.A Bello respectively of the Kaduna State High
Court, Kaduna, on separate one count charge bordering internet fraud.
The convicts were arrested at a hotel in Barnawa, Kaduna in a sting
operation prompted by intelligence on their alleged internet fraud-
related activities. Investigation established that they had impersonated
several personalities in the social media and used the false identities
to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Salim reads: “That you, Salim Bashir ( aka Owen
Walker), sometime in March, 2023 within the Kaduna Judicial Division
of the High Court with intent to defraud, falsely presented yourself
as one Owen Walker, United States of America (USA) citizen and in
such assumed character cheated one Justus Ann the sum of $250(Two
Hundred and Fifty Dollars) through your Facebook account and black
online dating site known as BLK and you thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 142 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017 and
punishable under the same Law”.
For Khalid, the count charge against him reads: “That you, Khalid
Ola Abdulwasiu, male, sometime between January 2023 and April 2023,
n Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, impersonated
one John Walker ( a Military Doctor) from the United States of America
on Facebook and in such false identity engaged Valerie Jackson in
romantic relationship and obtained the sum of $200(Two Hundred United
States of America Dollars) worth gift cards, and you thereby committed
cheating by impersonation, an offence contrary to Section 308 of the
Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017 and punishable under Section 309
of the same Law”.
They both pleaded guilty to the charges.
Prosecution counsel, E.K. Garba urged the courts to convict them
as charged.
Justice Khobo convicted and sentenced Salim to two years imprisonment
with an option of fine of N100,000.00(One Hundred Thousand naira). He
was also ordered to forfeit one Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max being the
instrument used in committing the offence and the sum of $250(Two
Hundred and Fifty USD) which was recovered from him, to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
Similarly, Justice Bello, convicted and sentenced Khalid to two years
imprisonment or a fine of N100,000.00(One Hundred Thousand Naira). He
is also to forfeit one Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max and the sum of $200
(Two Hundred USD) to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-two-years-imprisonment-in-kadun
*****************************************
12 MAY 2023
NO SHORT CUT TO WEALTH, BAWA TELLS CORP MEMBERS
The Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Abdulrasheed Bawa, Thursday, May 11, 2023, charged the youth to
embrace hard work and shun the lure of quick and instant wealth.
The EFCC chairman gave this charge during a sensitization lecture
on the Role of Youths in Curbing Economic and Financial Crimes at
the National Youth Service Corps Orientation Camps across the country,
Speaking through Williams Oseghale, Head, Public Affairs Department,
Benin Zonal Command at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Okada, Edo State,
Bawa said "There is no short cut to success. Those who take short
cuts are always cut short. Yahoo yahoo is a crime against humanity
and God. It is not a sustainable way of life. The EFCC urges you
to be innovative, forward looking and hard thinkers."
The EFCC boss urged the corps members to enlist in the anti-graft
army by joining the NYSC/EFCC Anti-Corruption CDS group. "We encourage
you to join the group. It is a platform that offers you the opportunity
to work with the advocacy arm of the Commission and to be in a position
to serve as charge agents by helping to mould kids in schools across
the nation"
At the NYSC Temporary Orientation Camp, Government, College, Kurmin
Mashi, Kaduna, the Executive Chairman who was represented by CSE Nana
Fatima Abubakar of the Public Affairs Department, Kaduna Zonal Command,
urged the youths to harness their intelligence and energy for greater
public good in their various areas of primary assignment and be change
agents during their one year compulsory service by embracing only acts
that could add positive value to the country’s aspirations.
At the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp Iseyin, Oyo State, Bawa charged
Nigerian youths to shun corruption and other social vices that could
endanger their future and jeopardize the socio-economic growth of the
country. He stated that the youths must rise to the challenge of curbing
economic and financial crimes, including corruption in our society and
not use poverty and unemployment as basis to perpetrate internet fraud.
The message was presented on his behalf by DSE Egbodofo Olumide. Head
of Public Affairs Department of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the EFCC.
“The menace of internet fraud among our youths is worrisome as youths
are getting involved deeply in cybercrimes to the detriment of their
future and the image of our nation. The fraudulent claim to reparation
as basis for internet fraud is unacceptable and criminal.
“The lazy excuses of poverty and unemployment as rationalization and
justification for internet crimes are also untenable as poverty should
not be an excuse for criminality, and unemployment cannot be a basis
for defrauding others of their hard-earned income,” Bawa said.
At the NYSC Orientation Camp Katsina, Idris Isiyaku, Head, Public
Affairs, Kano Zonal Command, who represented the Executive Chairman,
charged the Corps members to be whistle blowers by exposing corrupt
activities in their communities.
“The message of the EFCC to you all this morning is that you should
become whistle blowers in any place where you find yourself by reporting
acts that fail the simple test of integrity. It is no use lamenting that
things are not right with our country. We are inviting you to lend a hand
in helping us build a society where there is respect for law and order
and where impunity is a thing of the past,” he said.
Bawa further encouraged the corps member to not lose hope in Nigeria
and to believe in its potential of one day becoming a great nation.
“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.”
At the Orientation Camp located in Ise/Orun/Emure area of Ekiti State,
Superintendent of EFCC, Gbenga Adewoye of the Public Affairs Department,
Ilorin Zonal Command, who presented the Executive Chairman’s message,
charged the corps members to take full ownership of the fight against
economic and financial crimes.
Similar messages were presented to Corps members in Port Harcourt,
Enugu, Makurdi, among others.
no-short-cut-to-wealth-bawa-tells-corp-members
****************************************
12 MAY 2023
ABUJA COURTS JAIL EIGHT YAHOO BOYS FOR IMPERSONATION
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Command, on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, secured the conviction of
eight internet fraudsters before Justices Chinyere Nwecheonu,
A.A Akobi A.I. Kutigi and V.S Garba of the Federal Capital
Territory High Court, Abuja.
Five of the convicts: Emmanuel Ogochukwu, Ugochukwu Mathias
and Aderele Adekunle, Abdullahi Adebola Ayinde and Matthew Ushie
Adie were prosecuted before Justice Nwecheonwu of the FCT High
Court, Kuje on one count charge each.
Adie’s charge reads, “that you, Matthew Ushie Adie, sometime
in 2023 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did cheat by impersonation when you presented yourself
as a citizen of the United Kingdom using Facebook platform
and benefitted the sum of Four Million, Four Hundred and Ten
Thousand Naira Only (N4,410,000) from one Jeremy Justice Meir,
a fact you knew to be false and 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”.
Ogochukwu, pretending to be Kob Sook Dennis cheated one Yen
Tran on Facebook platform. Ugochukwu also pretending to be
Arjun Sharma on Instagram cheated unsuspecting females of
the sum of $400 (Four Hundred US Dollars). Aderele, pretending
to be one Finalisa, the daughter of one Lee Bruce, a contractor
from Hong Kong, obtained the sum of 3000 RMB (Three Thousand
Renminbi), while Abdullahi created an Instagram account in
the name of an American actor, Tom Cruise and in that assumed
character obtained the sum of $80 (Eighty US Dollars) from
one Anne Line Bergh alias Sarafina Carly, a Norwegian citizen.
Justice Nwecheonu sentenced all five defendants to one year
in prison with options of fine as follows: Emmanuel Ogochukwu
and Abdullahi both bagged a fine of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand
naira) each, while Aderele is to pay N300,000 (Three Hundred
Thousand Naira) fine. Ugochukwu and Adie were fined N250,000
(Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira only) each.
In addition, all convicts are to forfeit proceeds of crime
to the Federal Government.
In a related development, one Raphael Samuel Maduabuchi who
was prosecuted before Justice A.A Akobi of the FCT High Court
Gwagwalada on a one count charge for cheating by personation
when he presented himself as a white woman named ‘plasticjuggernaut787’
from the United States of America to obtain a total sum of $500
(Five Hundred United States Dollars) from Damonnava as transport
fare to meet him, was sentenced to community service including
cutting the grass within the court premises, after pleading
guilty to the charge.
Also, his Samsung Galaxy S9 phone is to be forfeit to the Federal
Government.
Also, Justice A.I. Kutigi of the FCT High Court Jabi, Abuja convicted
one Prince David on a one count charge of cheating by impersonation
when he created a Reddit application with nude female pictures with
the name Ladiphilipol and obtained One Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($150)
from one Josef, pretending to be in a romantic relationship with him.
He was sentenced to one month in prison with a N50, 000 (Fifty
Thousand Naira) option of fine.
In the same vein, one Igbafen Ifijen was convicted by Justice V.S
Garba of FCT High Court Kuje for cheating by impersonation when he
presented himself as a white man from Germany using a dating site
called ‘Lovoo’ and benefitted the sum of EUR3, 145 (Three Thousand
One Hundred and Forty Five Euro) only from one Jutta, Audrea and
Eike, all German women. The offence is contrary to Section 321 of
the Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation (Abuja) 1990 and punishable
under Section 324 of the same Act
Igbafen, after pleading guilty to the charge was convicted by
Justice Garba and sentenced to a one year jail term with an option
N75,000 (Seventy Five Thousand Naira) fine.
The press release contains photos of most of the 419ers:
https://www.efcc.gov.ng/efcc/news-and-information/news-release/9140-abuja-courts-jail-eight-yahoo-boys-for-impersonation
**********************************************
12 MAY 2023
EIGHT SUSPECTED YAHOO BOYS NABBED IN TWO ABUJA ESTATE
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, arrested eight
suspected internet fraudsters.
The suspects are Usifo Mophy, Eze Richard, Abdulkadir Sadiq
and Emmanuel Joseph. Others are Tuoyo Kelvin, Joel Omojevwe,
Joshua Omojevwe and Oreva Omojevwe.
They were apprehended at EFAB Estate Gwarimpa and Federal
Housing Authority Estate, Nyanya, Abuja following credible
intelligence about their internet-related fraud activities.
Items recovered from them include over 10 phones of different
makes, HP laptops, a MacBook, 2 Toyota Camry cars, a Mercedes
Benz C300 and a Lexus RX 350.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the
investigation is concluded.
The press release contains photos:
eight-suspected-yahoo-boys-nabbed-in-two-abuja-estate
*********************************************
12 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRAIGNS FAKE AMERICAN CIVIL ENGINEER FOR ALLEGED
120,150 EUROS
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday,
May 10, 2023, arraigned one Wilson Daphey, ( aka Jefrey Guiseppe)
before Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon of a Federal High Court sitting
in Abuja on a nine count charge bordering on obtaining money under
false pretense and money laundering.
Daphey allegedly manipulated and obtained the sum £120,150 from
one Ms Petra Goschenhofer with the assistance of Evans Nnamdi Aguh,
Christopher Chinedu Ajufo, Ifeanyi Enuma and Ojinanaka Kingsley
Chukwuma, all of whom are currently at large.
Count two of the charge reads, “That you, WILSON DAPHEY (AKA JEFREY
GUISEPPE) between November 2018 and December 2019 at Abuja within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud
over the internet, presented yourself to one Ms Petra Goschenhofer
whom you met on Instagram as American Civil Engineer who lives in
Rome but currently (end of September/beginning of October 2018)
in Dubai for a construction project, and in that assumed character
obtained a total of sum of 69,880 Euros (Sixty Nine Thousand, Eight
Hundred and Eighty Euros and thereby committed an offence contrary
to section 22 (2) (b) (ii) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc) Act, 2015”
Count seven reads “That you, WILSON DAPHEY (AKA JEFREY GUISPPE)
between 15 January, 2020 and 28 January, 2021 at Abuja within the
Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, took possession of the sum
of N10,511,704 (Ten Million, Five Hundred and Eleven Thousand,
Seven Hundred and Four Naira) in your Guaranty Trust Bank PLC
account no: 0259574242 which you reasonably ought to have known
to be proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: obtaining money by false
pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 15(2)
(d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 as amended by
the Money Laundering (Prohibition)Act 2012 and punishable under
section 15(3) of the same Act”.
The defendant pleaded `not guilty` to all the charges.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Deborah Ademu-Eteh
prayed the court for a trial date and the remand of the defendant.
The defence counsel, E.O Clement, however moved the bail application
of the defendant.
Justice Olajuwon adjourned the matter till May 17, for ruling on
bail application while the defendant remains in EFCC custody.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-fake-american-civil-engineer-for-alleged-120-150-euros
************************************************
12 MAY 2023
KWARA COURT SENDS FOUR TO JAIL FOR INTERNET FRAUD
IN ILORIN
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has secured the conviction of four persons for
offences bordering on internet fraud and retention of proceeds
of criminal conduct.
Justice Mahmoud Abdulgafar convicted and sentenced Dauda Soliu
Tunde, Lambe Taiye, Omogbolahan Ibrahim Wasiu and Olorunfemi
Ayobami to various jail terms, having pronounced them guilty
of the charges brought against them.
One of the charges against Dauda reads; "That you, Dauda Soliu
Tunde, sometime between the month of January 2021 and December
2021, in Ilorin, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
knowingly had under your control the gross sum of N1,752,290.00
(One Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty-two Thousand, Two Hundred
Naira Only) in your bank Account Number 0214775928 domiciled with
Guaranty Trust Bank, Which you knew to be unlawfully obtained and
thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under
Section 319A of the Penal Code Law"
One of the charges against Omogbolahan reads: "That you, Omogbolahan
Ibrahim Wasiu, sometime between the months of January 2020 and
November 2020, in Ilorin, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, Knowingly had under your control the gross sum of N3,032,545.00
(Three Million, Thirty-Two Thousand, Five Hundred and Forty-Five Naira
Only) in your Bank Account Number 0245521339 domiciled with Wema Bank
PLC. Which you knew to be unlawfully obtained and thereby committed
an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 319A of the Penal
Code Law”.
The defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
Sesan Ola and Mukhtar Kaigama who prosecuted the cases on behalf
of the EFCC, reviewed the facts of the cases through the witnesses
who are operatives of the Commission. The witnesses narrated the
circumstances that led to the arrest of the defendants and they
tendered the extra-judicial statements, phones and laptops recovered
from them at the point of arrest, which were admitted in evidence.
They urged the court to hold that the prosecution had proved its
cases beyond reasonable doubt and convict the defendants as charged.
Justice Abdulgafar upheld the submission of the prosecution that
the Commission convict the defendant as charged.
The Judge sentenced Dauda to six months imprisonment which should
be suspended subject to good conduct under the supervision of probation
officer at Mandala Correctional Centre and ordered that the convict's
iPhone 11 and 12 Pro Max and the sum of N300,000 (Three Hundred Thousand
Naira) Only recovered from him be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Omogbolahan on the other hand bagged six months suspended sentence
and ordered to forfeit his Hyundai Sonata car, phones and laptops,
as well the sum of N300,000 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira).
Lambe's case is not different. He bagged six months imprisonment
on each of the two counts to run concurrently. The court ordered
that the iPhone 12 and one Lexus ES 350 car belonging to him be
forfeited to the Federal Government.
Justice Abdulgafar also sentenced Olorunfemi to six months imprisonment
on each of the four counts to run concurrently. The judge ordered that
one iPhone 13 and a Toyota Camry belonging to the convict be forfeited
to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
kwara-court-sends-four-to-jail-for-internet-fraud-in-ilorin
******************************************
11 MAY 2023
YAHOO BOY WHO POSES AS TOM CRUISE JAILED 2 YEARS
IN KADUNA
Justice A.A. Bello of the Kaduna State High Court, Kaduna, has
convicted and sentenced one Gideon Tobi Victor to two years
imprisonment for charges bordering on cybercrime brought against
him by the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The one count amended charge reads: "That you, Gideon Tobi Victor
(aka Andre Bohrer) (M), between January and April 2023 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 Andre Bohrer (a white woman) to several unsuspecting victims on
Google Chat, 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 3
09 of the same Law”.
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
Justice Bello convicted and sentenced Victor to two years imprisonment
or a fine of N150, 000.00 ( One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira).
He is also to forfeit to the Federal Government of Nigeria one
Samsung phone through the EFCC.
Gideon, ran into trouble when he was apprehended by Kaduna Vigilance
Services(KADVS) and handed over to the commission for further investigation,
which revealed that he had impersonated several individuals online using
various guises.
He impersonated one Cherry (a transgender model) and the American actor,
Tom Cruise to defraud victims. The convict also converted a total of $700
worth of gift card for one Gabriel Onabiyi, a fraudster.
The press release includes a photo of the 419er, which for some
reason is sideways:
yahoo-boy-who-poses-as-tom-cruise-jailed-2-years-in-kaduna
****************************************
11 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS ‘CROSSDRESSER’, 32 OTHERS FOR ALLEGED INTERNET FRAUD
IN LAGOS
Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested one Owoseni
Gabriel, who posed as a woman to evade arrest, and 32 others
for their alleged involvement in computer-related fraud.
Gabriel was arrested alongside Salaudeen Hammed, Akinsanya
Olamilekan, Olamofe Joshua, Akindele Saheed, Damilare Micheal,
Patoki Ayomiku, Olakunle Ismail, Babalola Ayomide, Afolabi
Olaibola, Abiodun Olayinka, Samuel Ogunyemi, Adebayo Olarewaju,
Abdul-Fatai Olawale and Hassan Ayofe.
Others are: Samson Jeremiah, Kolawole Afeez, Owoseni Gabriel,
Makinde Oluwasegun, Daniel Seun, Adefolahan Isreal, Olusegun
Emmanuel, Olawore Micheal, Hammed Raheem, Micheal Tunde,
Francis Chibundu, Jesse Oluwatobiloba, Adenekan Ayotunde,
Qudus Adeyi, Sulaimon Oladimeji, Kayode Sunday, Daniel Owosine,
and Boluwatife Gbolahan.
They were arrested on May 2, 2023 at the Iyana Ipaja axis of
Lagos State, following credible intelligence received by the
Commission on the activities of some young boys involved in
computer-related fraud.
During the sting operation, Gabriel, particularly, wore a
female dress and a wig to evade arrest.
Items recovered from the suspects include a Toyota Camry 2005
model, a Toyota Camry 2009 model, mobile phones and laptop computers.
The suspects will be charged to court after investigations have
been concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-crossdresser-32-others-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-lagos
419 Coalition comment: Let's just say that Mr. Gabriel is NO
Caitlin Jenner. We mean, if one is going to go for the look,
then do it right :)
*******************************************
11 MAY 2023
COURT CONVICTS ELEVEN INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN OGUN, OYO
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of
eleven (11) internet fraudsters to various jail terms before
Justices Iyabo Yerima, Ladiran Akintola, M.O. Ishola and Sherifat
Adeyemi of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan and Justice Abidoun
Akinyemi of the Ogun State High Court, Abeokuta on separate one
count charges.
The convicts are Korede Gbolahan Badejo, Sodiya Femi Ajibola,
Huigha Goodness Aboi, Haruna Usman Tanimola, Ohadike Ifeanyi,
Bashar Abiola David, Ekhuemelo Jerry, Tayo Akande Joshua,
Olutiriko Blessing Benjamin, Oladini Ayobami Solomon and
Abiodun Adebolu Jelili.
Upon their arraignments, they all "pleaded guilty" to the
charges filed against them by the anti-graft agency.
Consequently, Justice Akinyemi convicted and sentenced Badejo
to one year imprisonment while Ajibola and Aboi were convicted
and sentenced to six months community service each by Justice
Yerima.
Also, Justice Akintola convicted and sentenced Haruna to three
months community service and Ifeanyi to six months community
service, while Justice Ishola sentenced David, Jerry and Joshua
to six months community service each. The duo of Jelili, Olutiriko
and Solomon were convicted and sentenced to six months community
service each by Justice Adeyemi.
The courts ordered that the convicts restitute their victims
and forfeit all items recovered from them. Aboi forfeits the
sum N1, 904, 932.38 (One Million, Nine Hundred and Four Thousand,
Nine Hundred and Thirty-two Naira, Thirty-eight Kobo) to his
victim, while Jelili is to forfeit two unregistered silver colour
Lexus RX350 and black colour ES350 respectively to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-convicts-eleven-internet-fraudsters-in-ogun-oyo
***********************************************
11 MAY 2023
$268,000 FRAUD; EFCC ARRESTS YAHOO BOY AT HIS LUXURY HOTEL
IN OGHARA, DELTA STATE
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Commander of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission have arrested Precious Ojo, aka
obago, a suspected internet fraudster in Oghara, Delta State.
The 26 year-old was arrested following a petition received from
a United States of America citizen, on his fraudulent activities.
The petitioner had alleged that the suspect impersonated one
Raymond Bush who works in the US Treasury to defraud her of
$268,000.00.
The suspect was arrested at his hotel in Oghara.
He confessed to building the luxury hotel with his alleged
proceeds of crime.
Other items recovered from him include a Mercedes-Benz car
with personalised plate number and mobile phones.
The suspect will be arraigned in court soon.
The press release contains several photos:
268-000-fraud-efcc-arrests-yahoo-boy-at-his-luxury-hotel-in-oghara-delta-state
419 Coalition comment: Nice Digs! If the Coordinator of the 419
Coalition ever gets over Oghara way he'll have to book a suite at
the hotel - from the New Owners of course :)
********************************************
11 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 14 INTERNET FRAUD SUSPECTS IN PORT HARCOURT
Fourteen suspected internet fraudsters were arrested on Friday,
May 5, 2023 by the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Port Harcourt Zonal Command, during a sting
operation at Rumuekini axis of Port Harcourt.
The suspects are Okoro Ansalem, Gift Mylius, John Lucky, Sadiq
Shaibu, Sadiq Fahid, Benjamin Nnaji, Bestman Daniel, Golden Emmanuel,
Dike Collins, David Nnaji, Oscar Mathew, Ofe Goodness Okoro Gift
and Isaac Abraham Jombo.
They were arrested alongside three cars, Laptops, mobile and
electronic devices.
They will be charged to Court as soon as the investigation is
concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-14-internet-fraud-suspects-in-port-harcourt
***************************************
11 MAY 2023
COURT SENDS FOUR INTERNET FRAUDSTERS TO JAIL IN BENIN CITY ...
FORFEITS OVER N5MILLION, CAR TO FG
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court sitting in
Benin City on Thursday, May 4, 2023, convicted and sentenced
four internet fraudsters to jail for fraud.
Those convicted are Edemakhiota Osaretin, Ehiaguina Joel,
Desmondehator Osarumwense and Jonathan Ibhazeh (aka Ehis
Samson).
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission on separate one count charges
bordering on possession of fraudulent documents, personation
and intent to defraud.
The charge against Osaretin reads. “that you, Edemakhioya (m)
sometimes between year 2020 and 2022 in Benin City, Edo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did with
intent to defraud represent yourself to be Jia Wing , a 40
year-old Chinese woman 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 Joel reads: “that you, Ehiaguina Joel
sometime between 2019 and March, 2023 within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court did have in your possession on your
Samsung Galaxy Slot with IMEI number 354642101287689 documents
which you knew or ought to have known contain a false pretence
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 6 read
together with 8(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 defendants pleaded guilty to their
respective charges.
In view of their plea, prosecution counsel, I.M. Elodi and I.K.
Agwai prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly. However, the defence counsel 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 Osaretin to three
years imprisonment with an option of Five Hundred thousand Naira
as fine while Joel bagged three years imprisonment or a fine
of Two Hundred Thousand Naira .
Osarumwense bagged one year imprisonment or a fine of One
Hundred Thousand Naira while Ibhazeh was sentenced to two
years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.
Justice Ikponmwonba ordered that the sum of N3,922,322.57
N1,008,383.47 in the bank accounts of Ehiaguina and Osaretin
be forfeited to the Federal government. Osaretin is also to
pay the sum of N1,000,000 to the Federal Government in lieu
of the forfeiture of a Gas Plant named Edema Global Oil and
Gas Ltd belonging to him situated at Ahor Community, Benin-Auchi
Road, Edo State.
The defendants are to forfeit a Toyota Venza, 2010 model
and mobile phones, being proceeds of crime, to the Federal
Government of Nigeria. through the EFCC.
The judge also ordered the closure of defendants bank
accounts.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-sends-four-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin-city-forfeits-over-n5million-car-to-fg
****************************************
11 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS SELF-STYLED POLICE OFFICER, 42 OTHERS
FOR ALLEGED INTERNET FRAUD IN OGUN
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, May 5, 2023, arrested a self-
acclaimed police officer, Tijani Idris Oluwaseun, and forty-two (42)
others for alleged internet fraud activities.
The cybercriminals were arrested at Ijebu-Ode and Awa-Ijebu towns
of Ogun State following actionable intelligence on their alleged
fraudulent activities.
Aside Oluwaseun who claimed to be an officer serving in Ede, Osun
State, the other suspects include Dahud Sodiq Temidayo, Emmanuel
Chidibe Peter, Alan Joseph Opeyemi, Sodiq Iyanu Babatunde, Abiodun
Olukoya Ibrahim, Adebanjo Oluwaseyi Emmanuel, Olokode Ajibola Obaloluwa,
Emiade Azeez Ayotunde, Okeowo Oluwadayo Ahmed, Oludare Abdulazeez Ajadi,
Emmanuel Sunday John, Wisdom Alloy, Yusuf Nurudeen, Kadiri Oluwasegun
Sodiq, Daniel Christopher Imlegu, Tijani Babatunde, Abubakar Faruq
Oluwapelumi, Oyeneye Jerimiah Abiodun, Clement Temitope, Balogun
Olatunji, Akinboyede Idris Olawole, Akinlade Gbemileke and Afeez Lekan.
The rest are: Bankole Timilehin, Akande Olanrewaju, Arowolo Ololade,
Kelvin Udanyi, Ayanmo Sunday, Olanusi Bolaji, Victor Ogheneremu,
Ogunboye Ayodeji, Emmanuel Ayomide, Ojo Odegbele, Sotunde Tobi,
Ayodele Felix, Festus Akindeji, Jonathan Taiwo Resurrection, Agun
Michael Okikiola, Olawale Oluwaseyi Ezekiel, Adeife Adeleke, Taiwo
Ayanmo and Aduraja Samuel Olaoluwa.
Items recovered include eleven exotic cars, several laptops, numerous
iPhones, apple wrist watches, expensive video games and golden teeth
worth millions of naira worn by one of the suspects.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigations are
concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-self-styled-police-officer-42-others-for-alleged-internet-fraud-in-ogun
******************************************
4 MAY 2023
COURT JAILS TWO INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN MAKURDI
Justice Abdul Dogo of Federal High Court, Makurdi, Benue
State, on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, convicted and sentenced
two internet fraudsters to two years jail terms for fraud.
They are John Sule Godwin and Samuel Aondowase Kpemiyol.
They were arraigned on separate one count charges bordering
on personation, illegal possession of proceeds of crime and
intent to defraud, by the Makurdi Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to their
respective charges prompting the prosecution counsel, Uwaisu
Yusuf and A. S. Idris to ask the court to convict and sentence
them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants pleaded with the court
to temper justice with mercy as they were first-time offenders
who had become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Dogo convicted and sentenced both to two years
imprisonment with an option of One Million Naira fine.
Justice Dogo ordered the forfeiture of their iPhones which
are proceeds and instruments of crime to the Federal Government
of Nigeria.
The charge against Godwin reads, "That you, JOHN SULE GODWIN
'm' (25yrs) on or about January 2022, in Makurdi, Benue State,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did fraudulently
frank electronic message by the use of Gmail and Instagram accounts
to defraud unsuspecting foreign victims; Chaunice Michelle, Lisa
Mullins Hasset, and Latoya Lipcom, the sum of $1,800 (One Thousand,
Eight Hundred USD) worth of Bitcoin and Binace, which was converted
and transferred into your Kuda Microfinance Bank account No; 2024317223
and First Bank account No; 3070565552, thereby committed an offense
contrary to and punishable under Section 14 (3) of the Cybercrime
(Prevention Prohibition, ETC) Act, 2015".
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
**************************************
4 MAY 2023
BAWA CHARGES STUDENTS TO JOIN FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION
The Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, on May 3, 2023, called on students
to join the fight against economic and financial crimes to
secure their future.
He gave the charge while inaugurating the EFCC Integrity Club
at Padopads Harmony Secondary School and Assembly of God
Comprehensive College,in Makurdi, Benue State.
Bawa who spoke through CSE Adeniran Adebayo Samuel, Head, Public
Affairs Department, Makurdi Zonal Command, reminded them that
the country's future lies in their hands.
"Let Integrity speak for you, come to school at the right time,
attend to your studies and be a good citizen of Nigeria," he said.
Furthermore, Bawa urged the new executives of Integrity Club to
be good ambassadors of the Commission. "Do not say, yes, when
you need to say, no, and be an agent of change anywhere you
find yourself", he declared.
Reginal Ahura, the Principal of Padopads Harmony Secondary School,
while encouraging her students said "corruption rubs us of many
things that are important, do the right thing at the right time ".
Mrs. Ochechi, the Vice Principal of Assembly of God Comprehensive
College, appreciated the works of EFCC and promised to lead the
Club to do the work diligently and be ambassadors of the anti-
corruption campaign.
Forty five students took oath to be members of the Club in
Padopads Harmony Secondary School while Twenty five students
made a similar pledge in Assembly of God Comprehensive College.
The press release contains photos:
bawa-charges-students-to-join-fight-against-corruption
******************************************
4 MAY 2023
EFCC INAUGURATES ZERO TOLERANCE CLUB AT
BENSON IDAHOSA UNIVERSITY
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 charged
Nigerian students to channel their creative energies into
useful and productive engagements and shun dubious activities.
The EFCC chairman stated this during the inauguration of Zero
Tolerance Club, ZTC, at Benson Idahosa University, Benin City.
The EFCC boss who was represented by ACE II Williams Oseghale,
Head, Public Affairs Department, Benin Zonal Command said internet
fraud was an abominable crime and that there is no truth or j
ustification in saying that it is a creative way to beat
unemployment. "The dishonesty, deceit and wicked scheming
involved are heinous. Internet fraud are crimes with stiff
penalties, he said.
He said the launch of the ZTC is to provide a platform for
involvement of students and youth in the fight against corruption,
promote a culture of patriotism, honesty, accountability, morality
and responsibility among students .
Speaking earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor
Sam Guobadia commended the idea of establishing ZTC in the school.
"I believe strongly in the popular adage that says prevention is
better than cure; that is why we quickly approved the coming of
the anti-graft agency to this school as we thought about the
benefit on the lives of not just the students but on the school
as a whole." He promised to ensure the growth of the Club in
the university.
The Dean of Students Affairs and Patron of the Club, Professor
(Mrs) Marble O. Ehigiator thanked the Commission for establishing
the club in their school and admonished the students to uphold
the values of the club.
The president of the newly inugurated club, Aifuwa Precious,
commended the Commission for the opportunity. "I have learnt
something new today and I am happy we are part of the Zero
Tolerance Club, This is a good one".
The press release contains photos:
efcc-inaugurates-zero-tolerance-club-at-benson-idahosa-university
****************************************
4 MAY 2023
EFCC INAUGURATES ZERO TOLERANCE CLUB
AT BENSON IDAHOSA UNIVERSITY
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Abdulrasheed Bawa on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 charged Nigerian students
to channel their creative energies into useful and productive engagements
and shun dubious activities. The EFCC chairman stated this during the
inauguration of Zero Tolerance Club, ZTC, at Benson Idahosa University,
Benin City.
The EFCC boss who was represented by ACE II Williams Oseghale, Head,
Public Affairs Department, Benin Zonal Command said internet fraud was
an abominable crime and that there is no truth or justification in saying
that it is a creative way to beat unemployment. "The dishonesty, deceit
and wicked scheming involved are heinous. Internet fraud are crimes with
stiff penalties, he said.
He said the launch of the ZTC is to provide a platform for involvement
of students and youth in the fight against corruption, promote a culture
of patriotism, honesty, accountability, morality and responsibility among
students .
Speaking earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Sam
Guobadia commended the idea of establishing ZTC in the school. "I believe
strongly in the popular adage that says prevention is better than cure;
that is why we quickly approved the coming of the anti-graft agency to
this school as we thought about the benefit on the lives of not just
the students but on the school as a whole." He promised to ensure the
growth of the Club in the university.
The Dean of Students Affairs and Patron of the Club, Professor (Mrs)
Marble O. Ehigiator thanked the Commission for establishing the club
in their school and admonished the students to uphold the values of
the club.
The president of the newly inugurated club, Aifuwa Precious, commended
the Commission for the opportunity. "I have learnt something new today
and I am happy we are part of the Zero Tolerance Club, This is a good one".
The press release contains photos:
efcc-inaugurates-zero-tolerance-club-at-benson-ahosa-university
***********************************************
4 MAY 2023
COURT JAILS TWO INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN MAKURDI
Justice Abdul Dogo of Federal High Court, Makurdi, Benue State,
on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, convicted and sentenced two internet
fraudsters to two years jail terms for fraud.
They are John Sule Godwin and Samuel Aondowase Kpemiyol.
They were arraigned on separate one count charges bordering on
personation, illegal possession of proceeds of crime and intent
to defraud, by the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission.
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charges prompting the prosecution counsel, Uwaisu Yusuf and A. S.
Idris to ask the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendants pleaded with the court to temper
justice with mercy as they were first-time offenders who had become
remorseful for their actions.
Justice Dogo convicted and sentenced both to two years imprisonment
with an option of One Million Naira fine.
Justice Dogo ordered the forfeiture of their iPhones which are
proceeds and instruments of crime to the Federal Government of
Nigeria.
The charge against Godwin reads, "That you, JOHN SULE GODWIN 'm'
(25yrs) on or about January 2022, in Makurdi, Benue State, within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did fraudulently frank
electronic message by the use of Gmail and Instagram accounts to
defraud unsuspecting foreign victims; Chaunice Michelle, Lisa Mullins
Hasset, and Latoya Lipcom, the sum of $1,800 (One Thousand, Eight
Hundred USD) worth of Bitcoin and Binace, which was converted and
transferred into your Kuda Microfinance Bank account No; 2024317223
and First Bank account No; 3070565552, thereby committed an offense
contrary to and punishable under Section 14 (3) of the Cybercrime (
Prevention Prohibition, ETC) Act, 2015".
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
**************************************
4 MAY 2023
BAWA CHARGES STUDENTS TO JOIN FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION
The Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Abdulrasheed Bawa, on May 3, 2023, called on students to join
the fight against economic and financial crimes to secure their
future.
He gave the charge while inaugurating the EFCC Integrity Club
at Padopads Harmony Secondary School and Assembly of God
Comprehensive College,in Makurdi, Benue State.
Bawa who spoke through CSE Adeniran Adebayo Samuel, Head, Public
Affairs Department, Makurdi Zonal Command, reminded them that
the country's future lies in their hands.
"Let Integrity speak for you, come to school at the right time,
attend to your studies and be a good citizen of Nigeria," he said.
Furthermore, Bawa urged the new executives of Integrity Club to
be good ambassadors of the Commission. "Do not say, yes, when you
need to say, no, and be an agent of change anywhere you find
yourself", he declared.
Reginal Ahura, the Principal of Padopads Harmony Secondary School,
while encouraging her students said "corruption rubs us of many
things that are important, do the right thing at the right time".
Mrs. Ochechi, the Vice Principal of Assembly of God Comprehensive
College, appreciated the works of EFCC and promised to lead the
Club to do the work diligently and be ambassadors of the anti-
corruption campaign.
Forty five students took oath to be members of the Club in Padopads
Harmony Secondary School while Twenty five students made a similar
pledge in Assembly of God Comprehensive College.
The press release contains photos:
bawa-charges-students-to-join-fight-against-corruption
*******************************************
4 MAY 2023
EFCC INAUGURATES INTEGRITY CLUB IN BENUE
The Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC on May 2, 2023 inaugurated EFCC Integrity Club
at Baptist High School, Achusa Makurdi, Benue State.
The Executive Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa who was represented
by the Makurdi Zonal Commander, Friday Ebelo, urged the students
to see themselves as role models, leaders of tomorrow and Anti-
Corruption ambassadors.
"Corruption is beyond extortion of money, wherever you find
yourself, affect changes, be transparent and your integrity
matter" he said.
He admonished the students to concentrate on their studies,
to stay away from crimes, drugs and anything that could tarnish
the image of Nigeria and their school. "Remember you are
representing Baptist Schools, you are carrying a name that
is highly respected", he said.
The student staged a short drama on Integrity, while a female
student recited a poem entitled "Downfall".
Thirty Students took the oath of service .Divine Ihukwumere,
the President of the Club, promised to lead in accordance with
the existing guidelines.
The presx release contains photos:
efcc-inaugurates-integrity-club-in-benue
*************************************
3 MAY 2023
COURT JAILS FOUR INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN BENIN CITY
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin City
on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 convicted and sentenced four internet
fraudsters to various jail terms for fraud.
They are Anuge Micheal Usiahon, Ehis Francis Inegbinebor,
David Jatto Osemudiamen and Itoghomhen Moses Osemudamen.
They were arraigned on separate charges bordering on fraudulent
personation, illegal possession of proceeds of crime and intent
to defraud, by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission.
The charge against Osemudamen (M) reads: “That you, David Jatto
Osemudamen (m) sometimes in December, 2022 in Benin, Edo State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did retain the
aggregate sum of N41,808,715.00 (Forty-one Million, Eight Hundred
and Eight Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifteen Naira) only in your
bank account number: 6024775760 domiciled in Keystone Bank knowing
the same represent the proceeds of IREDIA ENDURANCE EDDY's criminal
conduct to wit: cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary
to Section17(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
( Establishment) 2004 and punishable under section 17(b) of the
same Act”.
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charges prompting the prosecution counsel, I.M Elodi and K.U. Udus,
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 were first time offenders who
had become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Oshiahon to three years
imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira as fine,
while Osemudamen bagged three years imprisonment or a fine of Three
Hundred Thousand Naira.
The duo of Inegbinebor and Osemudiamen bagged two years imprisonment
or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira each.
Justice Ikponmwonba ordered the forfeiture of $5, 000 recovered from
Osamudamen to the victim of crime, Christine Brown, a British national.
The judge also ordered that the aggregate sum of N6, 894,397.18 recovered
from Inegbinebor and Osemudiamen be forfeited to the Federal government
along with a Lexus ES 300, 2004 model, Mercedes Benz GLA 250, 2019 model
and phones which are proceeds and instruments of crime.
In addition, the judge ordered the closure of the defendants' bank
accounts.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-four-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
**************************************
3 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 34 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN DELTA STATE
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, May 2, 2023,
arrested 34 suspected internet fraudsters in Oghara, Delta
State.
The suspects include Ese Collins, Benjamin.A.Ifeanyi, Akparoboke
Oghenero, Uti Jerry , Otega John, Joshua Broka, Jethro Saapila,
Goodluck Ottwowatiohwo, Adilike Precious, Uvbierimi Raphael, Oyadan
Clinton and Isusu Chukwuemeka, Esajini Fidelis, Monday.Justice,
Godwin Micheal, Osagie Igbe Uwa, Fidelis Goodluck, Emmanuel Jeremiah,
Omokoro Omonefe, Emakpor Efetobore, Atunu Ewomaghea, Kingsley Onwudegiru
and Esegbue Stephen.
Others are Ewomazino.Odidi, Ishaka Samson, Chukwuyem Marven, Jephthah
Eromosele, Ese Ozumu, Adelike Ifakachukwu and Osadolor Louis, Oghenemharho
Prosper, Onoyeyan Daniel, Clement Ogiaide and Peter Ekepoburu.
They were arrested in a sting operation based on actionable intelligence.
Items recovered include a GLE 350; Lexus RX350; Toyota Venza; Lexus
ES330 and mobile phones.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be charge to court
as soon as the investigation is concluded.
The press release contians photos:
efcc-arrests-34-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-delta-state
******************************************
3 MAY 2023
ZAURA'S APPLICATION STALL $1.3M FRAUD TRIAL
The trial of Abdulsalam Saleh Abdulkarim also known as
AA Zaura before Justice Mohammed Nasir Yunusa of the Federal
High Court could not go on today, May 2, due to an application
filed by the defendant asking for a stay of proceedings.
Zaura was arraigned by the EFCC on March 1, 2023 for allegedly
defrauding a Kuwaiti citizen to the tune of $1,320,000 (One
Million Three Hundred and Twenty Thousand Dollars) under the
guise that he was into real estate business in Dubai and other
countries.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The matter was subsequently adjourned to today for the commencement
of trial. But while the case was pending, Zaura filed an application
for stay of proceedings and served the prosecution, which responded
with a counter affidavit, that by virtue of section 360 of Administration
of Criminal Justice Act, ACJA and section 40 of the EFCC Act, the court
cannot entertain a no stay of proceedings in criminal trial.
When the matter came up today, counsel to the defendant, M.I Dikko
SAN, informed the court that he had filed a further and better affidavit
in support of the motion for stay of proceedings.
Justice Yunusa adjourned the matter till May 31, and June 1, 2023 for
hearing of the application.
The press release contains a photo:
zaura-s-application-stall-1-3m-fraud-trial
************************************
3 MAY 2023
From The Daily Beast, a US based news site:
Cops Bust 'Sextortion' Ring That Led Michigan Teen
to Kill HimselfThree men are accused of posing as a girl on Instagram and
sending vile messages to 17-year-old Jordan DeMay
by Erik Uebelasker
Seventeen-year-old Jordan DeMay was a homecoming king, a star
athlete and a beloved role model at Marquette Senior High School
in Michigan. He was also the victim of what investigators say
was an “international sextortion ring” that pushed him to take
his life last March.
Disturbing Instagram messages between the teen and an alleged
Nigerian scammer, who posed as a teenage girl to extort him,
were revealed Wednesday by U.S. Attorney for the Western District
of Michigan Mark Totten after a monthslong investigation that
led to the indictment of three men.
Samuel Ogoshi, 22, Samson Ogoshi, 20, and Ezekiel Ejehem Robert,
19, all of Lagos, Nigeria, were charged in a four-count indictment
for the “sextortion” of DeMay.
According to the indictment, DeMay was sexually extorted on Instagram
by the three scammers, who allegedly encouraged DeMay to send explicit
photos of himself that were later used to blackmail him for money.
It’s an increasingly common tactic in a crime that is on the rise.
Perpetrators often pretend to be someone else, encouraging victims
to send sexual messages or photos that are then used to blackmail
them, Totten said.
In this case, the scammers allegedly purchased a hacked Instagram
account under the handle “dani.robertts” and posed as a teenage girl
who chatted to DeMay via DM. At some point, she urge DeMay to send
nude photographs.
When DeMay obliged, “dani.robertts,” who prosecutors say was actually
Ogoshi, allegedly threatened to send the photos to DeMay’s family and
friends.
“All you’ve to do is to cooperate with me and I won’t expose you,”
Ogoshi allegedly wrote to DeMay, demanding $1000.
DeMay paid $300 to Ogoshi, the indictment says, but he continued
to threaten the teen.
“I’m kms rn [kill myself right now],” DeMay wrote at one point.
“Bc of you.”
“Good,” Ogoshi responded in subsequent messages, according to the
indictment. “Do that fast. Or I’ll make you do it. I swear to God.”
DeMay died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound after the exchange.
“As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what Jordan went through
that night and how scared he was because of this senseless act,”
Jennifer Buta, DeMay’s mother, said at a news conference Wednesday
announcing the indictment.
Totten revealed that DeMay was just one of many targeted victims
in the trio’s global sextortion operation.
“The indictment, which was unsealed this morning, alleges these
defendants targeted more than 100 victims, both minors and adults,”
Totten said.
The extradition process is underway in collaboration with the
Nigerian government, Totten said. He added that the investigation
is still ongoing, and more defendants may be charged in the future.
The article contains a photo:
cops-bust-sextortion-ring-that-led-to-michigan-teen-jordan-demays-suicide
*******************************************
2 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 18 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN ENUGU
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the EFCC, on Monday,
May 1, 2023, arrested eighteen suspected internet fraudsters
in different locations within Enugu.
The suspects include one Chigozie Philips, founder of Holy
Family School Abakpa, Enugu, where he allegedly trains prospective
cybercriminals. Thirteen of his proteges who were arrested in the
sting operation are Kingsley Okorie, Henry Chidiebere, Elochukwu
Chukwuemeka Micheal, Nelson Nnaji, Joacin Kelvin, Kelechi Ibe,
Chinonso James, Udeh Isaiah and Micheal Chukwuemeka.
Others include Ifeanyi Ozor Bright, Etuma John, Okafor Chukwuemeka,
Raymond Chinaza, Desmond James, Ozoma Chinonso Anthony, Uchenna Aka
and Ozor Celestine.
Items recovered from the suspects include 20 mobile phones and 2
laptops. The suspects have made useful statements and will be charged
to court as soon as the investigation is concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-18-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
************************************
2 MAY 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 19 AKWA IBOM VARSITY STUDENTS FOR
ALLEGED INTERNET FRAUD
Nineteen Undergraduates of Akwa Ibom State University,
Mkpat-Enin, were on Friday, April 28, 2023, arrested
by operatives of the Uyo Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for suspected internet-
related offences.
They were arrested at their private hostels: Obong Abasi
Lodge and Mfon Obong Lodge both located at Ikot Akpadem
in Mkpat-Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Their arrest followed several months of surveillance on
their suspected involvement in romance scam, fraudulent
crypto currency transactions and impersonation.
Items recovered from them include, several laptops and
mobile phones.
They will be charged to court as soon as Investigations
are concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-19-akwa-ibom-varsity-students-for-alleged-internet-fraud
***************************************
2 MAY 2023
COURT JAILS SIX INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN CALABAR
Justices Ijeoma Ojukwu and Rosemary Oghoghorie of the Federal
High Court sitting in Calabar, Cross Rivers State, have convicted
and sentenced six Internet fraudsters to various terms of imprisonment.
The convicts: Ojiako David Enyinna, Heziekiah Ezekiel Eno, Onyedika
Ugochukwu Enemchukwu, Adinkwu Destiny Chukwudifu, God’s Favour Bassey
Essi and Ebenezer Emmanuel Peter, were jailed on Wednesday, April 26,
2023.
They were convicted after pleading guilty to different charges
bordering on obtaining by false pretence and criminal impersonation.
While Enemchukwu and Peter were arraigned on separate two-count charges,
Enyinna, Eno, Chukwudifu and Essi were arraigned on separate one-count
charge bordering on obtaining by false pretence and criminal impersonation.
One of the charge against Peter reads: “That you, Ebenezer Emmanuel Peter
“M” sometime in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
take possession and control of $200 (Two Hundred Dollars) intentionally,
knowing that the money formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act
to wit: obtaining money by false pretence and thereby committed an offence
contrary to Section 18 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and
Prohibition) Act and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act”.
They all pleaded guilty when the separate charges were read to them.
In view of their pleas, prosecuting counsel; S. S. Aribido and J.E.I
Ogbuli prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
However, defence counsel: Daniel G. Daniel, Koko Essien, Innocent Eze
and Francis Ezike prayed the court to temper justice with mercy.
Justice Oghoghorie sentenced Peter to one year imprisonment on each of
the two count charge, to run concurrently, or pay a fine of N500,000.00
( Five Hundred Thousand Naira only). Chukwudifu and Essi bagged one year
imprisonment each with the option of a fine of N500,000.00.
Enemchukwu, Enyinna and Eno were convicted and sentenced by Justice
Ojukwu as follows: Enemchukwu: 6 months imprisonment on each count
to run concurrently, with an option of fine of N500,000.00; Enyinna
and Eno: 6 months imprisonment each with the option of fine of
N500,000.00 and N200,000.00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira) respectively.
Enemchukwu and Peter were ordered to pay the sums of $400 and $200
respectively in restitution to their victims, through the Commission.
While all items used in committing the crimes were forfeited to the
Federal Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-six-internet-fraudsters-in-calabar
*************************************
2 MAY 2023
COURT JAILS MAN ONE YEAR FOR POSSESSION
OF FRAUDULENT DOCUMENTS IN LAGOS
Justice O.O. Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, April 27, 2023, convicted and sentenced
one Wano Ahmed to one year imprisonment for possession of fraudulent
documents, an offence contrary to Section 318 of the Criminal Law
of Lagos State 2011.
Ahmed was prosecuted by the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a one-count charge bordering
on possession of fraudulent documents used to perpetrate romance scam.
The count reads: "Wano Abdullahi Ahmed, on the 9th of March 2022 in
Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, had in your
possession, documents wherein you represented yourself as Rita John,
a female American from California, to Mark Robinson, a representation
by the circumstance of the case you knew to be false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
He had earlier pleaded "not guilty" to a four-count charge filed
against him in March 2022.
However, in the face of the overwhelming evidence against him, he
approached the prosecution to change his plea, thereby prompting the
need to amend the charges.
Following his guilty plea, counsel for the EFCC, G.C. Akaogu, gave
a review of the facts.
The defendant, he said, was arrested sometime in March 2022 alongside
other fraudsters who engaged in computer-related fraud, including
cryptocurrency fraud, bank fraud, romance scam and Internet fraud.
"Upon his arrest by operatives, he was brought to the EFCC office,
where his iPhone 6 was analyzed.
“He was further interrogated, and he admitted to have engaged in
dating scam," he said.
Akaogu further applied to tender, in evidence , his extrajudicial
statement and a bundle of fraudulent documents printed out from his
mobile device.
Justice Abike-Fadipe admitted them as exhibits P1 and P2, and
convicted him as charged.
When he was given the opportunity to address the court, Ahmed pleaded
with the court to look upon him with mercy, promising never to engage
in internet fraud.
"This is my first time, and I promise to never do it again," he
pleaded.
Consequently, Justice Abike-Fadipe sentenced him to one-year in
prison effective April 26, 2022 when he was incarcerated.
The press release contains aphoto of the 419er:
court-jails-man-one-year-for-possession-of-fraudulent-documents-in-lagos
*********************************************
28 APR 2023
YAHOO BOY BAGS ONE YEAR TERM FOR LOVE SCAM
IN KADUNA
The Kaduna Zonal Command has secured the conviction of one
Joshua Audu before Justice A.A Bello of the Kaduna State High
Court on a one count charge bordering on Love scam
Joshua, who was arrested by the Kaduna State Vigilance Service,
KADVS at Brooklyn Hotel, Narayi Barnawa Kaduna on suspicion of
involvement in cybercrime and handed over to the Commission for
further investigation, allegedly used the social media platform,
Google Chat to defraud victims whom he professed love to. He
received money and gift cards as proceeds of his illicit act.
He pleaded guilty upon arraignment, leading to his conviction
and sentencing to one year imprisonment or a fine of N 150,000
(One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira). He is also to forfeit
his Redmi 7 and iPhone 11 mobile devices to the Federal Government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
ahoo-boy-bags-one-year-term-for-love-scam-in-kaduna
*********************************
28 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 25 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN AKURE
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, April 27,
2023, arrested 25 suspected internet fraudsters in Akure,
Ondo State.
The suspects were arrested in an early morning operation
following actionable intelligence on their alleged criminal
activities.
Those arrested are Sunday Samson, Ogunlana Oluwaseyi, Fajemelusi
Tosin, Oyenyen Olusegun Blessing, Philip Ayodeji Kolawole, Akinnodi
Oyindamola, Faith Ilemobayo, Aro Oluwaferanmi, Lekan Ogundare,
Adeshina Olamilekan, Olawafe David, Abegunde Oluwaseun, Akinlade
Oluwole Stephen and Adeniyi Temetope.
Others are Christopher David Hassan, Oke Ademola Ayomide, Adekunle
Junior Adeleye, Rasaq Saheed, Philip Paul Peter, Gbenga Mathias
Friday, Obasanya AbdulGaniya, Ojo Olugbenga Emmanuel, Joseph
Oluwapelumi, Olugbenga Ayomide Issac and Abegunde Opeyemi
Items recovered from the suspects are 10 exotics cars - two
Lexus EX350, one Lexus IS250, one Lexus RX350, four Toyota
Camry, one Honda Accord, one GLK 350 Mercedes Benz, laptops
and mobile phones.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be charged
to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-25-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-akure
**************************************
27 APR 2023
CITI POLYTECHNIC ABUJA SEEKS COLLABORATION WITH EFCC
The Rector, Citi Polytechnic, Simeon Barinyima Nwate has
called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
to assist his institution in the areas of youth empowerment
and manpower development. He made the appeal on Wednesday,
April 26, 2023, during a courtesy visit to the EFCC Academy
at Karu, Abuja.
According to Nwate who was accompanied by the Registrar, Braimoh
Charles, the Librarian, John Dennis and the Director Programmes,
Ogwuche Emmanuel, “every year we usually hold a seminar and we
want to plead with the EFCC to come and talk to our Students on
the vices that are dangerous. We want it to come from the horse’s
mouth which is you, the EFCC. We are also hoping that officials
of the EFCC periodically visits our school to educate our students
on any other key subjects and topics that the EFCC deems fit.”
The Commandant EFCC Academy, Commander of the EFCC, Ayo Olowonihi
who spoke through the Deputy Commandant, Training, Assistant Commander
of the EFCC, Babashani Umar Sanda assured of the Academy’s willingness
to partner with critical stakeholders in its areas of competence.
“The Commission have programmes for sensitization of youths, students
and pupils on regular excursion to the EFCC Academy as well as various
training packages which also includes personal development training
for Middle Managers, Emotional Intelligence, Training of Trainers
during which we can show your lecturers how to adopt the Students
Centered Problem Solving (SCPS) training methodology which is proving
to be better than the conventional lecture methodology of training,
”Olowonihi said.
In her remark, Assistant Commander of the EFCC Chidimma Amanambu,
Head Media, EFCC Academy, said the Commission was working with various
institutions of learning in sensitizing the youth and children on the
ills of corruption, cybercrime and other social vices through the Zero
Tolerance and Integrity Clubs.
The press release contains a photo:
citi-polytechnic-abuja-seeks-collaboration-with-efcc
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27 APR 2023
CALABAR COURT SENDS FIVE INTERNET FRAUDSTERS TO JAIL
The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 secured the
conviction and sentencing of five internet fraudsters, before
Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court sitting in
Calabar, Cross River State.
The convicts, whose ages range between 19 and 28 years are;
Churchill Tam Kridi, Aniekpeno Aniekan John, Samuel Emmanuel
Ngozi, Enoch Mfoniso Ofonime and Endurance Friday.
While Kridi and John were arraigned on separate one-count
charge, Friday, Ofonime and Ngozi were arraigned on separate
two-count charges, all bordering on impersonation and obtaining
by false pretence.
One of the charge against them reads: “That you, Samuel Emmanuel
Ngozi sometime in 2023 in Nigeria within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court with intent to obtain property and gain advantage
for yourself, fraudulently presented yourself as Maipham and Rumeysa”
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
calabar-court-sends-five-internet-fraudsters-to-jail
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26 APR 2023
TWO EX-CONVICTS, 46 OTHERS, ARRESTED FOR INTERNET FRAUD
IN KADUNA
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC has arrested 48 internet fraud suspects, including
two women, Precious Malachi Zidyep and Tina Patrick Omoyeme, in a
sting operation in Kaduna.
The suspects also include two ex-convicts: Williams Justice Gankon
and AbdulWasiu Yunus who were apprehended at Yoruba Street, Yakowa
Expressway, Karji, Kaduna State. They were previously arrested on
April 10, 2022, prosecuted and convicted on August 31, 2022 by
Justice Nasiru Umar Sadiq of the Kaduna State High Court.
The other suspects are Triumph Abdul Yakub Faith, John Joseph Ojima,
Benjamin Odey Sunday, Wisdom Omofunhe Billy, Korede Samuel Godiya,
Isaiah Sunday, Favor Olayinka Bamidele, Gabriel Sunday, Sunday Simon
Ojobo, Steven Dikeh Ebere, Abba Tachio, Moses Njoku Emeka, Okechukwu
Kelvin Chidera, Lucius Rakun, Bege Bonet and Jonah Hussaini zisan.
Others include Jamiu Najiem, Mohammed Abdulwasiu, Ayuba Sikiru, Salim
Bashir, Khalid Ola Abdulwasiu, Japhet Peter, Collins Haruna, AbdulKadir
Afafasimu, Sebastine Yohanna Mamman, Franklin kingsley, Aliyu Suleiman
AbdulRaman, Micahl Afred Antozoa, Okoro Henry, Christian Julius Tegu,
Bature Japhet Yusuf, Nnamdi Orji Innocent, Macaulay Mathew Olushola,
AbdulBasit Abdullahi Yahaya, Joseph Emeka, James Mark, Aminu Sale,
Favour Mba, and Okoro Henry.
Most of the suspects were arrested at Rosalux Blue Hotel, Agua, Kaduna
South which is fast becoming notorious as a haven for cyber-fraudsters
as some suspects had been arrested in the facility by the Commission
in the past.
Some of the items recovered from the suspects include mobile phones
of different models and laptop computers.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
two-ex-convicts-46-others-arrested-for-internet-fraud-in-kaduna
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26 APR 2023
COURT CONVICTS INNOCENT FOR LOVE SCAM
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Command on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, secured the conviction of
one Innocent Anthony Joseph before Justice Anne Akobi of the
FCT High Court Gwagwalada.
He was prosecuted on a one count charge bordering on love scam.
The charge reads, “that you, Innocent Anthony Joseph sometime
in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court cheated
by impersonation when you created a WeChat account with profile
name, Chard Lee, a Chinese citizen living and working in Belgium
and under the assumed character obtained the sum of Three Thousand
Chinese Yuan (Y3000) from a lady who is a Chinese citizen, under
the pretense that you are in a romantic relationship with her,
a fact you knew to be false and you 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 Law’.
He pleaded guilty and was convicted by Justice Akobi, and
sentenced to community service.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-convicts-innocent-for-love-scam
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3 MAY 2023
Fron the US based news service the Daily Beast:
Cops Bust 'Sextortion' Ring That Led Michigan Teen
to Kill Himself
by Erik Uebelacker
Seventeen-year-old Jordan DeMay was a homecoming king, a star
athlete and a beloved role model at Marquette Senior High School
in Michigan. He was also the victim of what investigators say
was an “international sextortion ring” that pushed him to take
his life last March.
Disturbing Instagram messages between the teen and an alleged
Nigerian scammer, who posed as a teenage girl to extort him,
were revealed Wednesday by U.S. Attorney for the Western District
of Michigan Mark Totten after a monthslong investigation that
led to the indictment of three men.
Samuel Ogoshi, 22, Samson Ogoshi, 20, and Ezekiel Ejehem Robert,
19, all of Lagos, Nigeria, were charged in a four-count indictment
for the “sextortion” of DeMay.
According to the indictment, DeMay was sexually extorted on Instagram
by the three scammers, who allegedly encouraged DeMay to send explicit
photos of himself that were later used to blackmail him for money.
It’s an increasingly common tactic in a crime that is on the rise.
Perpetrators often pretend to be someone else, encouraging victims
to send sexual messages or photos that are then used to blackmail
them, Totten said.
In this case, the scammers allegedly purchased a hacked Instagram
account under the handle “dani.robertts” and posed as a teenage girl
who chatted to DeMay via DM. At some point, she urge DeMay to send
nude photographs.
When DeMay obliged, “dani.robertts,” who prosecutors say was actually
Ogoshi, allegedly threatened to send the photos to DeMay’s family and
friends.
“All you’ve to do is to cooperate with me and I won’t expose you,”
Ogoshi allegedly wrote to DeMay, demanding $1000.
DeMay paid $300 to Ogoshi, the indictment says, but he continued
to threaten the teen.
“I’m kms rn [kill myself right now],” DeMay wrote at one point.
“Bc of you.”
“Good,” Ogoshi responded in subsequent messages, according to the
indictment. “Do that fast. Or I’ll make you do it. I swear to God.”
DeMay died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound after the exchange.
“As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what Jordan went through
that night and how scared he was because of this senseless act,
” Jennifer Buta, DeMay’s mother, said at a news conference Wednesday
announcing the indictment.
Totten revealed that DeMay was just one of many targeted victims
in the trio’s global sextortion operation.
“The indictment, which was unsealed this morning, alleges these
defendants targeted more than 100 victims, both minors and adults,”
Totten said.
The extradition process is underway in collaboration with the
Nigerian government, Totten said. He added that the investigation
is still ongoing, and more defendants may be charged in the future.
The article contains a photo:
cops-bust-sextortion-ring-that-led-to-michigan-teen-jordan-demays-suicide
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25 APR 2023
INTERNET FRAUDSTER BAGS TWO YEARS JAIL TERM
IN PORT HARCOURT
Justice E. A. Obile of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State, has convicted and sentenced an internet
fraudster, Austine Famaa to two years imprisonment for impersonation.
Famaa was jailed on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, after pleading "guilty"
to a two count charge preferred against him by the Port Harcourt Zonal
Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
One of the counts reads: “That you, Austine Famaa, sometime in June
2022, at Ada-George and Choba axes of Port Harcourt within the Jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court, fraudulently obtained from one Jane Doe the sum
of One Thousand, Three Hundred and Ninety-One Dollars Ninety-Three Cents
($ 1,391.93) under the false pretence that you are a Bitcoin and Crypto
Currency International Trader which pretence you knew to be false with
intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offense
contrary to Section 1 (1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related
Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act”.
He pleaded guilty to the charge. In view of his plea, the prosecution
counsel, U .I. Nwokorie prayed the court to convict and sentence the
defendant accordingly.
Counsel to the defendant, D .O. Kelly prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy, stating that the defendant was a first-time
offender.
Justice Obile convicted and sentenced the defendant to one year
imprisonment on each of the counts, with One Hundred Thousand
Naira (N100, 000.00) as option of fine payable into the Consolidated
Revenue Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The judge also ordered that one iPhone 8+, one Samsung Smart Phone,
one iPhone 6s, and one Hisense TV, recovered from the convict be
forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
internet-fraudster-bags-two-years-jail-term-in-port-harcourt
************************************
19 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS SIX SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN ABUJA
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, have arrested six suspected internet fraudsters in Abuja.
They were arrested on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 in an early
morning sting operation at Jahi and Dawaki axes of the Federal
Capital Territory, FCT, based on credible intelligence on
their alleged criminal activities.
The suspects are: Emmanuel Ndubuisi, Solomon Tochukwu, Okotie
Kingsley, Benedict Akor, Samuel Anosike and Samson Iffy.
Items recovered from them include; one Mercedes Benz car; two
Lexus RX350 and Toyota Camry.
Others are, laptops, mobile phones, one international passport
and an expensive wrist watch.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-six-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-abuja
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18 APR 2023
ROMANCE SCAM: MAN ARRAIGNED FOR NON DECLARATION
OF $28,000
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, today April 17, 2023, arraigned
one Joseph Victor Ndubuka before Justice Darius Khobo
of the Kaduna State High Court on a two count charge
bordering on romance scam and non- disclosure of assets.
The defendant allegedly used the false identity of Caucasian
gay to defraud unsuspecting victims of their hard-earned money.
One of the counts reads, “that you, Victor Joseph Ndubuka "m"
sometime in March 2023 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court knowingly failed to make full disclosure of your assets by
deliberately refusing to declare your cryptocurrency and Non
Fungible Token (NTF) all worth about Twenty Eight Thousand Dollars
in the Disclosure of Assets and Liabilities Form and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 27(3) (a) of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004 and
punishable under Section (27) (3) of the same Act.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Prosecuting counsel, Precious C. Onyeneho urged the court to
fix a date for hearing of the matter, while the defence counsel,
A.I Hamza urged the court to admit his client to bail.
Justice Darius, however, adjourned the case till May 3, 2023
for hearing of his bail application and ordered the defendant
remanded at the Correctional Centre. .
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
romance-scam-man-arraigned-for-non-declaration-of-28-000
*****************************************
17 APR 2023
MAN CONVICTED FOR IMPERSONATION IN ENUGU
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Enugu
Zonal Command on Friday, April 14, 2023, secured the conviction
of one Ugwu Onyekachi Sunday before Justice U.J Mogbo of the
Enugu State High Court, Enugu on a one count charge bordering
on fraudulent personation.
He was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment with
the option of three months community service, having pleaded
guilty to the one count charge proffered against him.
The court further ordered the forfeiture of his mobile phone
to the state government.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
man-convicted-for-impersonation-in-enugu
*************************************
17 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 44 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN IBADAN
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, April 14, 2023, arrested forty-four
(44) suspected internet fraudsters in Ibadan, Oyo State.
They were arrested at Apete and Bodija areas of Ibadan following
actionable intelligence on their fraudulent cyber activities.
The alleged cybercriminals are Aparimo Ogunfunminiyi Ojoola, Olalekan
Taoreed Miller, Olamide Animashaun Ademola, Rotimi Samson, Waheed Abeeb
Olamilekan, Jelili Abeeb Afolabi, Olamide Azeez Ayinla, Mohammed Lawal
Segun, Peter Seyi Iyanuoluwa, Akinmoju Kolawole, Ibrahim Akande Abiodun,
John Oluwatimilehin Moses, Oshunrinade Samuel, Moradeyo Abeeb Abiodun,
Ogunmola Oluwabori Michael, Aderomu Gbenga Michael, Akinrinola Pelumi
Sunday, Adeola Tunji, Opaniyi Yakubu Olasunkanmi, Oyedele Israel Sunday,
Fiyin Adebayo Omotosho, Oladele Oladimeji John, Gbolahan Qudus and Lawal
Muiz Gbolahan.
Others are: Alonge Timilehin Israel, Akinlade Tolulope Seyi, Taiwo
Oluwatobiloba Daniel, Adesina Sodiq Ishola, Victor Paul Shedrack, Olawale
Oladapo Olaleye, Muili Olamilekan Sodiq, Babalola Afeez Bolaji, Adeagbo
Stephen Adegbenro, Ephraim Isaiah Joshua, Olanrewaju Muhammed Opeyemi,
Dada Segun David, Okikiola Oluwateniola, Ayodele Victor Ayodeji Oluwadamilare
Isaiah Olanrewaju, Akande Afeez Gbolahan, Omotolani Samson Gbenga, Odesanya
Michael Adedimeji, Akindele Timothy Olatunde, and Farayola Habeeb.
Items recovered from them include ten exotic cars, two motorcycles,
fifty-three (53) mobile phones, four laptops, one JBL speaker and one
PS game with two pads, among others.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-44-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-ibadan
******************************************************
12 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 11 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN MAIDUGURI
Operatives of the Maiduguri Zonal Command of Economic and
Financial Crimes. EFCC, on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, arrested
11 suspected Internet fraudsters in Jere and Maiduguri Local
Government areas of Borno State.
The suspects: Olatunji Sherif, Bright Felix, Jude Linus Magaji,
Jonah Jondi, Ojobaro Abdullahi, Jerry Zizighi, Micah Joseph,
Mari Ayuba, Ibrahim Abdullahi, Adam Abiodun, and Victor Chinonso
Okolieaboh were arrested in a sting operation following credible
intelligence on their alleged criminal activities.
Items recovered at their residence included one Mercedes Benz
GLK 350, a Toyota Corolla saloon car, smartphones, MTN 4G Wi-Fi,
and power banks.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the
investigation is concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-11-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-maiduguri
***************************************
6 APR 2023
BAWA CHARGES UNDERGRADUATES TO SHUN INTERNET FRAUD
Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, has called on
students in institutions of higher learning across the
country, to steer clear of all forms of internet fraud
in order to accelerate the development of the nation.
He gave the charge on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at the
inauguration of Zero Tolerance Club at Baze University,
Abuja.
Bawa, who was represented by the Secretary to the Commission,
Dr. George Ekpungu says the penalties of internet crimes are
stiff, and therefore enjoined them to avoid all temptation
that may lead them to join the trend.
“Every variant of internet fraud, such as romance scam, business
email compromise, hacking, impersonation, forex scam and others
are corrupt practices and must not be found among you”, he said.
Continuing, he pointed out that: “As undergraduates, you are
expected to channel your creative energies into useful engagements
and not into dishonest and dubious means of cheating others of
their resources”.
Director, Public Affairs Department of the Commission, Commander
of the EFCC, CE Osita Nwajah, also stressed the importance of
joining the club and the essence of the Operational Manual for
Integrity and Zero Tolerance Clubs which are presented to the
school as a guide for the club’s activities.
Also at the occasion, Head, Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit
of the Commission, Aisha Mohammed said the essence of launching
the club was to inculcate virtues of integrity, honesty, discipline,
tolerance and patriotism in the students.
In a response, Registrar of the University, Mani Ibrahim Mohammed,
emphasized the essence of being upright and charged the students
to avoid crimes and criminality at all costs.
“There is nothing more important than integrity. Integrity may
not give you money today, but it is going to put you on the path
of success. Money always comes: it may not come in your early
life, but if you work hard with integrity and you are steadfast,
you will succeed, you will make money than you ever believe in
your life, and you will be able to afford all the things you
want in your life and be able to walk straight with your head
high up as an important and respected member of the society”.
The press release contains photos:
bawa-charges-undergraduates-to-shun-internet-fraud
*****************************************
6 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 33 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN OWERRI
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the EFCC, on Thursday,
April 6, 2023, arrested 33 suspected Internet fraudsters in Owerri,
Imo State.
The suspects are Chukwu Frank Chinonso, Nnaji Ifeanyi Christian,
Ezeji Princewill Chimezie, Ogbonna Georgewill Ndubuisi, Onuoha
Daniel Chimaobi, Ekwusa Gerald Idiakachi, Echefulachi Divine
Echefulachi, Ike Simon Chisom, Ike Michael Chimezie, Dike
Princewill Chinanu , Okorie Gabriel Chigoziie, Matthew Izu
Ofoha, Osakwe Godswill, Dickson, Nlemadim Godstime Izuchukwu
and Njoku Gerald Chukwuebuka.
Other are Ubeachu Cannan Ikedi, Duru Ebuka Emmanuel, Ajoko
Nzubechi God’swill, Onyimadu Alozieuwa Franklin, Akubueze
Uchechukwu Franklin, Manji Gotom Sabastine, Uwandu bright
Ogochukwu, Ubah Kingsley Chidozie, Chibueze Nelson Kennedy,
Okwute Johson Onyedikachi, Ebuka Wisdom Obioma, Obiechefu
Nmesonma David, Nwoke chibuzo Favour, Mensah Chisaraokwu
Kelechi, Chigaemezu John Bright, Chikwado Christain Nmesoma,
Nwoke Chukwuemeka and Christopher.
The suspects were arrested in a sting operation following
actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from them include 43 mobile phones, 8 laptops,
1 POS and four luxury cars.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as the
investigation is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-33-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-owerri
*************************************
6 APR 2023
EIGHT INTERNET FRAUD SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Abuja
Zonal Command, on Thursday, April 6, 2023 arrested
8 suspected internet fraudsters. They were arrested
in Kubwa, a suburb of Abuja and Mararaba in neighbouring
Nasarawa State.
The suspects are David Oche Igoche, Innocent Adikwu,
Anderson Oshiomegie Edemode and Chinonso P. Peter.
Others include Emmanuel Smart, Favour Anucha, Adegbayi
Tunde and Desmond Esosa.
They were arrested following actionable intelligence
received by the Commission
Over five mobile phones, 2 laptops and 2 internet linking
devices were recovered from them.
The suspects will be charged to court as soon as
investigations are concluded.
The press release includes a photo:
eight-internet-fraud-suspects-arrested-in-abuja
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6 APR 2023
EFCC ADOPTS NEW STRATEGY TO CURB CYBERCRIME
The Commandant, EFCC Academy, Commander of the EFCC, CE Ayo
Olowonihi, on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, disclosed that the
Commission has commenced the process of training cybercrime
convicts to make use of the computer and the internet to
earn legitimate income.
Olowonihi, who made the disclosure at a two-day Workshop on
Investigation and Enforcement Skills for Effective Regulatory
Role for senior personnel of the National Broadcasting Commission,
NBC, said the measure was aimed at curbing the upsurge in cybercrime
despite the efforts being made by the Federal Government of Nigeria
toward combating economic and financial crimes.
According to him, “the problem we are dealing with is so huge
that we now have parents who take their kids out of formal school
and enroll them into internet fraud training centers popularly
known as Yahoo-Yahoo school. … The IT Skills that these young men
and women have, they just use it negatively so we have got to do
a lot of enlightenment and value re-orientation.”
The Director General, National Broadcasting Commission, NBC,
Balarabe Shehu Ilelah, in his remark, thanked the Executive Chairman,
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa
for the support being enjoyed by the NBC from the EFCC.
The participants were trained in various aspects of Investigation,
Cyber Crime Laws, Public Relations and Fake News Detection, Emotional
Intelligence, Alternative Dispute Resolution, NBC Act and case Studies.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-adopts-new-strategy-to-curb-cybercrime
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6 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 14 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN AKWA IBOM
Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 14 suspected
internet fraudsters, in an early morning sting operation
carried out at different locations within Eket Local Government
Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The suspects are: Unwana Peter, Itoro Lucky Moses, White Solom
on, Benjamin Inyang, Aniekan Akanawan, God’s-Favour Bassey, Moses
Udiodua and Abasieyo Ndem.
Others are; Adinkwu Destiny, Charles Joseph, Joseph Edet Eduno,
David John, Ndiana Abasi George and Nsikan Victor.
Items recovered from them include, laptops, mobile phones,
a router and a Play Station 4.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-14-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-akwa-ibom
*******************************************
6 APR 2023
COURT JAIL OBLA'S IMPOSTOR IN PORT HARCOURT
Justice P.I. Ajoku of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State has convicted and sentenced two
impersonators of Mr. Godwin Obla, a Senior Advocate of
Nigeria, SAN, Prince Samuel and Ekenne Jacob Onyeocha to
three years jail terms each for Conspiracy, obtaining
money by false pretense and impersonation.
They were prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, Port Harcourt Command, on three counts.
One of the counts reads: “That you, Prince Samuel and Ekenne
Jacob Onyeocha on or about 7th of July, 2022 in Port Harcourt,
Rivers State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
fraudulently represented yourself as Godwin Obla (SAN) using
a fake email account godwinobia50@mail.com with the intent
to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offense
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention Etc.) Act, 2015 and Punishable under Section 22
(2) (b) (iv) of the same Act.
Another Count- charge read:
"That you Ekenne Jacob Onyeocha and Prince Samuelon or about
7th of July, 2022 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud
obtained the sum of Two Million, Three Hundred and Seventy One
Thousand Naira only (N2, 371,000.00) from Ogeyi Place Hotel
Limited under that the representation that the said sum is
your outstanding credit balance with the Hotel, a pretense
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 “guilty” to the three counts.
Justice Ajoku on March 28, 2023 convicted and sentenced the
defendants to one year jail term on each count with Two Hundred
Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) as a fine. The sentence shall run
concurrently from the date of arrest.
The Convicts hacked the account of Mr. Obla with Ogeyi Place
Hotel and defrauded the customer of Two Million, Three Hundred
and Seventy One, Thousand Naira (N2, 371,000.00), between 2018
and 2019.
The Hotel sometime in January 2022, received an email from
the convicts pretending to be their client, Mr. Obla, a senior
Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, requesting to know his credit balance
with the Hotel. Upon the confirmation of the same, they further
requested that the balance be credited into the account of one
Mr. Godwin Anietie Obla J, with account Number. 2192067287
domiciled in United Bank for Africa.
After transferring the money, the legitimate owner of the money
visited the Hotel to lodge, but was told that he gave an instruction
for his account balance to be transferred, which he refuted.
At this point, the Hotel realized that it had been defrauded.
The press release contains photos of the two 419ers:
court-jail-obla-s-impostor-in-port-harcourt
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6 APR 2023
EFCC, ICAN TO COLLABORATE IN TACKLING FINANCIAL CRIMES
The Benin Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, ACE I Kanu Idagu, has reiterated the
Commission's commitment to collaborate and synergise with
relevant bodies and associations in the fight against
economic and financial crimes in the country. Idagu stated
this on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, when he hosted the
executives of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of
Nigeria, ICAN, Benin District Society, at his office.
According to the Zonal Commander, the Commission is willing
to collaborate with the association in capacity building and
training. "We gain everything by collaborating. It's a step
in the right direction. Collaboration is one of our core values".
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Benin District,
Dr. Sharlywest Eboigbe said the essence of the courtesy visit
was to explore areas for collaboration and partnership with
Commission. "We need you to train our people on emerging fraud.
Teach us base on your pool of knowledge in building a better
society."
In a related development, the Chairman of Association of Mobile
Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria, Edo State Chapter, Osaro Ekhator
on Wednesday, April 5, said the association was read to collaborate
with the Commission to sanitize the sector.
Ekhator stated this when he led executives members of the association
on a familiarization visit to the Commission. "We know the important
role EFCC plays in fighting financial crimes. We are willing to work
with EFCC and report fraud whenever it happens. We don't hide criminals".
Responding the Zonal Commander commended the leadership of the
association for the visit. "Your visit shows your association is
responsible, your readiness and willingness to conform to the
rules." However, he said the Commission will prosecute those who
collaborate with fraudsters to defraud innocent people of their
hard-earned money.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-ican-to-collaborate-in-tackling-financial-crimes
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5 APR 2023
COURT SENDS FIVE INTERNET FRAUDSTERS TO JAIL
IN BENIN CITY
Five internet fraudsters - Bright Obaro, Christopher Lawani
Igbinosa, Osagie Hope Godstime, Divine Uche and Osagie Junior
- were on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, convicted and sentenced to
prison by Justices Efe Ikponmwonba and M Itsueli of Edo State
High Court sitting in Benin City.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Commission
on separate one count charges bordering on fraudulent impersonation,
retention of proceeds of crime, intent to defraud and possession
of fraudulent documents.
The charge against Osagie Junior reads, “That you, Osagie Junior
(m) sometimes between 2020 to 2022 in Benin, Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did take possession of the
sum of N21,723,755.59 (Twenty One Million, Seven Hundred and
Twenty Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty Five Naira, Fifty
Nine kobo) 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) Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission (Establishment) Act 2004”.
Upon arraignment the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, K.Y. Bello, I. K. Agwai,
Al-amin A. Ibrahim and Ibrahim Falsal 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 they were first time offenders who had become
remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Obaro, Godstime and
Junior to three years imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred
Thousand Naira fune, while Igbinosa bagged three years imprisonment
or a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira. Justice It Uche to two
years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.
Justice Ikponwonba also ruled that the balance of N25,786.15 domiciled
in Sterling Bank belonging to Osagie Junior and phones recovered from
the defendants be forfeited to the Federal government of Nigeria.
All the defendants are to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-sends-five-internet-fraudsters-to-jail-in-benin-city
*****************************************
4 APR 2023
COURT REJECTS DEFENDANT'S BAIL APPLICATION IN ALLEGED
$1.4MILLION FRAUD TRIAL
Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in
Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, refused to admit one
Kolawole Adedayo Erinle, who is facing trial over an alleged
$1.4m fraud, to bail.
Erinle and his company, Rinde-Remdex Nigeria Limited, are 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).
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.
The defendant was previously arraigned before Justice Oluwatoyin
Taiwo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on
March 11, 2022 and was afterwards granted bail in the sum of N50
million, with two sureties in like sum, one of whom must be a land
owner within the jurisdiction of the Court and the other a Level
16 civil servant, with three years tax evidence.
However, the trial could not be concluded before the retirement
of Justice Taiwo.
The case was subsequently re-assigned to Justice Oshodi, and it
began de novo on October 28, 2022.
During the proceedings on February 10, 2023, the prosecution counsel,
T.J. Banjo, informed the court that investigations into the sureties
and documents provided, as part of the submission to fulfil the bail
conditions earlier granted the defendant, were not met.
He also told the court that the defendant, in spite of this, was
not in custody.
He further informed the court that the land registry failed to
authenticate the land documents submitted for the bail.
The sureties, he said, were also not forthcoming.
In view of the fact that the issues could not be resolved before
the retirement of Justice Taiwo, the prosecution subsequently applied
to the court to revoke the bail being enjoyed by the defendant.
After listening to the submissions of the prosecution and going
through the documents presented, Justice Oshodi revoked the bail
of the defendant and expressed surprise that the defendant was
released from custody when his bail documentation was not fully
perfected.
Following the development, counsel for the defendant, Lawal Pedro,
SAN, on April 3, 2023, again, made a fresh move for the bail of
his client, which received strong opposition from the prosecution.
Ruling on the application today, Justice Oshodi held that the
documents before the court showed that retired Justice Taiwo,
who earlier granted him bail, never approved of the two sureties
that the defendant presented.
Justice Oshodi also held that "I must also consider the probability
that the defendant may not surrender himself for trial owing to the
fact that the defendant had a previous criminal record.
"Bail is, therefore, denied, and accelerated hearing is ordered."
The case was adjourned till May 15 and 16, 2023 for continuation
of trial.
court-rejects-defendant-s-bail-application-in-alleged-1-4million-fraud-trial
**********************************************
4 APR 2023
IMPOSTOR BAGS 4 YEARS JAIL TERM FOR UN JOB SCAM
The Kano State High Court presided over by Justice Hadiza Suleiman
today April 4, 2023, convicted and sentenced one Ahmad Sultan Sardauna
to four years imprisonment for offences bordering on conspiracy and
forgery.
Sultan was arraigned by the Commission alongside one Emmanuel Tunde
sometime in November 2022.for forging documents in an attempt to defraud
a Somali to the tune of $4,661 under the guise of securing job for him
at the United Nations.
Upon arraignment, Emmanuel pleaded guilty and was convicted by the court.
Sultan on the other hand, pleaded not guilty thereby forcing the case
to proceed to trial.
However, when the matter came up for trial today, Sultan summersaulted,
and pleaded guilty to the charges against him.
One of the charges reads “That you, Ahmad Sultan Sardauna (aka Sultan
Fallatah) on or about the 20th of September, 2021, in Kano within the
Judicial Division of the High Court of Justice of Kano State with intent
to defraud forged a United Nations Offer Letter of employment dated 20th
September, 2021 bearing the name Said Ismail Jama purported to have been
issued by United Nations which you used to obtain money from the said
Said Ismail Jama and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
362 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 364 of the same law.”
In view of his latest plea, prosecution counsel, Musa Isah asked the
court to convict him accordingly.
Counsel representing the defendant Husaini Makari pleaded with the
court to temper justice with mercy in sentencing the defendant.
Consequently, Justice Suleiman sentenced the defendant to 2years
imprisonment on each of the two counts without option of fine
The press release contains a photo of the convicted 419er:
impostor-bags-4-years-jail-term-for-un-job-scam
*****************************************
4 APR 2023
COURT ADMITS MORE EVIDENCE AGAINST DEFENDANTS IN ALLEGED
$1,410,000 FRAUD TRIAL IN LAGOS
Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos, on Monday, April 3, 2023, admitted in evidence more documents
tendered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
against one Kolawole Adedayo Erinle, alongside his firm, Rinde-Remdex
Nigeria Limited.
Erinle and his company are 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).
They were previously arraigned before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of
the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on March 11, 2022.
However, the trial could not commence before the retirement of Justice
Taiwo, thereby prompting the re-assignment of the case to Justice Oshodi.
Subsequently, the case began de novo on October 28, 2022.
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, again, pleaded "not guilty" to the charges when he was arraigned
before Justice Oshodi.
At today’s proceedings, the court admitted some documents tendered
by the counsel for the EFCC, T.J. Banjo, as part of evidence to prove
the case against the defendant.
The documents included bundles of correspondences between the Federal
Bureau of Investigations, FBI, relating to the alleged offence, as well
as extrajudicial statements made to the EFCC by one Victoria, the mother
of the defendant and one A. Abdulazeez, a clearing agent that helped the
defendant in the clearing of vehicles imported into the country.
The fourth prosecution witness, PW4, Alex Ogbole, an EFCC's investigator,
had, on February 10, 2023, told the court that the EFCC led the Nigerian-end
of the investigation into the alleged crime, and that investigation showed
that the mother was a beneficiary.
He had told the court that the EFCC received a petition from the United
States Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, which indicated that the
victim of the alleged fraud, Kansas City University of Medicine and
Biosciences, KCUMB, had been a victim of Business Email Compromise, BEC.
However, when the prosecution sought to tender the correspondences between
the EFCC and the FBI, which also included a judgment of a US court convicting
the defendant of an eight-count charge bordering on bank fraud, which saw
him serve a 27-month jail-term, the defence counsel, Lawal Pedro, SAN,
raised objections to their admissibility.
Arguments were, thereafter, taken by the court, as both parties argued
on the admissibility or otherwise of the said documents.
After listening to the arguments, Justice Oshodi dismissed the objection
raised by the defence, noting that "the weight should be considered, and
relevance is key to admissibility."
Justice Oshodi, thereafter, admitted the statements of the mother as Exhibit
Q to Q3; statement of Abdulazeez as Exhibit Q4; the FBI correspondence dated
December 21, 2022 as Exhibit Q5; the FBI correspondence dated March 8, 2022
and February 8, 2022 as Exhibit Q6 and Q7, respectively.
Ogbole, who began his testimony on February 10, 2023, further testified
in his examination-in-chief led by Banjo that Rinde-Remdex Nigeria Limited,
a company owned by the defendant, received the $1,410,000 from the Bank
of America account of one Edada Autoparts and Machinary Spareparts Inc.
He said: "Edada was the primary recipient of the proceeds of the Business
Email Compromise, BEC.
"$850,000 was first credited to Rinde-Remdex Nigeria Limited here in
Nigeria, following which another $560,000 was sent to the account,
totalling $1,410,000.
"When the money got in, between March 6, 2019 and March 15, 2019, it was
disbursed by Erinle at various times."
According to the witness, the defendant, "who took possession of the
proceeds of the fraud, tried to explain that there was one Edward Dada,
but he couldn't provide any information on the said Dada, and our
investigation revealed that the said Dada never existed."
Earlier in the course of proceedings, Pedro had moved the bail application
for his client, which was strongly opposed by the prosecution.
"We concede that bail is at the discretion of the court and that the
offence is a bailable offence. But it must be exercised judicially,
considering the facts before the honourable court," he said.
The case was adjourned till April 4, 2023 for ruling on the bail
application
The press release includes a photo:
court-admits-more-evidence-against-defendants-in-alleged-1-410-000-fraud-trial-in-lagos
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4 APR 2023
COURT SENDS INTERNET FRAUDSTER TO JAIL IN BENIN CITY
Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin,
Edo State on Thursday, March 30, 2023 convicted and sentenced
Bashiru Oladipo Alakuro to jail for fraud.
Alakuro was arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission on one count charge of intent to
defraud.
The charge reads. “That you, Bashiru Oladipo Alakuro on the 4th
day of June, 2022 in Benin City within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court with intent to defraud did knowingly have in your
Infinix mobile phone, 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”.
Upon arraignment the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge prompting
the prosecution counsel, Al- Amin Ibrahim Abdul to pray the court to
convict and sentence him accordingly. However, defence counsel,
Inegbedion Emmanuel pleaded with the court to temper justice with
mercy as the defendant was a first time offender who has promised
to turn a new leaf.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Alakuro to one year
imprisonment or a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira
In addition, the convict is to forfeit his phone to the Federal
Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good
behaviour forthwith.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-in-benin-city
**************************************
4 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 21 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN ENUGU
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the EFCC, on Monday,
April 3, 2023, arrested twenty one suspected internet fraudsters
in the Emene and New Kenyata, axis of Enugu.
The suspects are Kenneth Arinze Godfrey, Anichukwu Emmanuel Aku,
Michael Israel Chukwuemeka, Anichukwu Obinna Christian Eze Chigozie
Collins, Ije Samuel Chinenye, Ngwu Peter Damian, Johnson Wisdom
Kelechi, Jude Leo Nelson, Tochukwu Ononuju Nelson, David Chinecherem
Ezeagu and Okonkwo Kingsley Obinna.
Others are Chukwu John Chibuzor, Ogbonna Okechukwu Precious, Benedict
Oluebubu Akarekwe, Akarekwe Michael chidera, Chinedu Amuka, Chukwunonso
Emmanuel Oji, Chukwunonso Mmaduabuchi Obodo, Asogwa Christopher Ejiofor
and Nnadi Chukwuemeka Leonard.
They were arrested following actionable intelligence.
Item recovered from them include 32 mobile phones, 2 laptops, one
iPad, and five luxury cars.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be charged to court
as soon as the investigation is concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-21-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
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4 APR 2023
EX-CONVICT, 17 OTHERS CONVICTED FOR INTERNET FRAUD
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of
a serial internet fraudster and ex-convict, Olayinka Ridwan
Olatunji to two years imprisonment and a fine of N500, 000.00
(Five Hundred Thousand Naira) before Justice Demi Ajayi of the
Federal High Court, Abeokuta, Ogun State for internet- related
fraud.
Olatunji had on October 21, 2022, been convicted and sentenced
to one year imprisonment by Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal
High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State for a similar offence.
Also, seventeen (17) cybercriminals were convicted and sentenced
various jail terms before Justices Ladiran Akintola, Mohammed
Owolabi, Iyabo Yerima and Olusola Adetujoye of the Oyo State High
Court and Justices Olugboyega Ogunfowora and A.A. Babawale of the
Ogun State High Court, sitting in Abeokuta.
The convicts are Oyeyemi Lukman Oluwaseun, Salaudeen Yunusa Olamilekan,
Sadiq Adekola Ahmad, Ali Akorede Omosebi, Adebola Ayomikun Adetosoye,
Toheeb Olalekan Adeleye and Aliu Sodiq Alabi.
Others are Oyesanya Oyekole Olakunle, Adekunle Damilare, Olalekan
Habeeb Aremu, Adeagbo Toyeeb Tola, Fabiyi Lukumon Ayo, Tobiloba Isiah
Seyi Adams, Akinrinola Saheed Abiodun, Nwaoha Christian Israel Adetola
and Hassan Nofiu Ayomide.
The convicts were prosecuted by the EFCC between March 6, 2023 and
March 30, 2023 on separate one count charge each. They all pleaded
“guilty” when the charges were read to them.
Consequently, prosecution counsel, Akorede Olushesi, Musa Galandanchi,
Modupe Akinkoye, Chidiebere Okoli, Oyelakin Oyediran, Mabas Mabur,
Lanre Suleiman and Samsudeen Bashir reviewed the facts of the cases,
tendered several documents that were admitted in evidence and urged
the courts to convict and sentenced the defendants as charged.
Omosebi, Adetosoye and Adeleye were convicted and sentenced to one
year imprisonment while Oyesanya, Adekunle, Fabiyi, Adams and Ahmad
were convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment but they were
given an option of N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) fine each.
Also, Akinrinola was sentenced to one year community service while
Oyeyemi and Alabi were sentenced to six months community service each.
Olalekan and Adeagbo were convicted and sentenced to four months
community service each.
Furthermore, Nwaoha, Osibanjo and Hassan were convicted and sentenced
to two months community service each while Salaudeen was convicted and
sentenced to a fine of N40,000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira).
The Courts 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 most of the 419ers:
ex-convict-17-others-convicted-for-internet-fraud
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4 APR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 17 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN MAKURDI
Operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the EFCC,
on April 1, 2023 arrested seventeen suspected Internet
fraudsters in Makurdi, Benue State.
The suspects are Emmanuel Ikechukwu, Agbo Lawrence,
Emmanuel Victor, Joseph Adoyr Ameh, Olamide Timothy,
Augestine Adalache, Izuka Justin, Boniface Dudoo,
Udechukwu Benedict and Emmanuel Igbo.
Others are Favour Nwokdi, Christian Nwgia, George Maaki,
Yina Terseem, Wilson Egwoba, Isaac Ukange and Precious
Tseaa.
They were arrested following actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones, ATM
cards, Laptops, Lexus RX330 and Toyota Camry cars.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be
charge to court soon.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-17-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
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31 MAR 2023
COURT SENDS INTERNET FRAUDSTER TO JAIL IN BENIN CITY
Justice M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin,
Edo State on Thursday, March 30, 2023 convicted and sentenced
Bashiru Oladipo Alakuro to jail for fraud.
Alakuro was arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on one count
charge of intent to defraud.
The charge reads. “That you, Bashiru Oladipo Alakuro on
the 4th day of June, 2022 in Benin City within the jurisdiction
of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud did knowingly
have in your Infinix mobile phone, 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”.
Upon arraignment the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge
prompting the prosecution counsel, Al- Amin Ibrahim Abdul to
pray the court to convict and sentence him accordingly. However,
defence counsel, Inegbedion Emmanuel pleaded with the court to
temper justice with mercy as the defendant was a first time
offender who has promised to turn a new leaf.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Alakuro to one year
imprisonment or a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira
In addition, the convict is to forfeit his phone to the
Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing
to be of good behaviour forthwith.
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-in-benin-city
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31 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS EIGHT SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN BENIN CITY
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC,
on March 31, 2023 arrested eight suspected internet
fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.
The suspects are Jeffrey Osagbemwonrue, David Ogheneyewuwe
Ighere, Harry Aputu Donald, Desmond Taiwo, Blessing Samson,
Oshiobugie Pascal, John Ohien and Roland Junior Osagie.
They were arrested following actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones and
Mercedes Benz GLK350 and CLA 250 cars
The suspects have made useful statements and will be
charge to court soon.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-eight-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
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31 MAR 2023
FRAUDSTER CONVICTED FOR $5,576 CRYPTOCURRENCY FRAUD
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday,
March 27, 2023, secured the conviction of one Moses Upkonahusi
for $5,576, (Five Thousand Five Hundred and Seventy-six United
States Dollars) fraud.
He was first arraigned by the EFCC before Justice Mohammed Zubair
of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Jikwoyi, Abuja,
on a one count charge bordering on cheating by impersonation.
The count reads: “That you, Moses Ukponahusi, Male, sometime in
December, 2021 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did cheat by personation when you fraudulently created a fake
investment website named https://crytoinfinitrade.com, posed as
chief Executive Officer of CRPTO INFINITE TRADE by which you
obtained a total Bitcoin value of 0.11088059 worth the sum of
Five Thousand, Four Hundred and Twenty Four Dollars, Twenty-nine
Cents ($5,424.29USD) from Adam Murah, an Australian and you thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 321 of the Penal Code Act,
LFN, 2004 and Punishable Under Section 324 of the Same Act.”
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
The judge convicted the defendant and sentenced to one year
imprisonment with an option of N300, 000(Three Hundred thousand
Naira) fine.
The court also directed that the recovered sum ($5,576.9USD) be
paid to the victim through the Australian High Commission in Nigeria.
The convict was arrested28 May, 2022 after an Australian, Adam Murad,
petitioned the Commission, alleging that the he fell victim to a
cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme that had promised him a huge
return on investment but lost a cumulative sum of 0.1108859 BTC
estimated to be worth $5,576.05, to the scammer in December, 2021.
fraudster-convicted-for-5-576-cryptocurrency-fraud
**************************************
31 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 21 ALLEGED CYBERCRIMINALS IN IBADAN
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, March 30,
2023 arrested twenty one suspected internet fraudsters
including two females in an intelligence driven operation
at Agbowo in Akobo and Idi – Ishin areas of Ibadan, Oyo State.
The suspects are Abdulsalam Yusuf Olamilekan, Henry Ugochukwu
Ike, Sobowale Tolulope Enoch, Franklin Ibeh Kelechi, Aderoju
Hammed Akande, Afolabi Mayowa Akinbobola, Emmanuel Victor
Oluwasegun, Odidwe Victory Okwise, Okeke Hycent Obina, Ibelih
Powel Theophilus, Anifowose Dolapo Praise, Balogun Oluwatobi
Ayodeji and Ayoade Rofeek Mayowa.
Others are: Samuel Shuaibu Adavize, Damilare Olaonipekun
Gbolahan, Tajudeen Opeyemi Quozim, Lawal Opeyemi Quwwatullah,
Adebisi Olaide Idris, Abiola Toheeb Olawale, Olanrewaju Hammed
Rafiu, Olayiwola Toheeb Olanrewaju and Nikoro Elizabeth Temitope.
Items recovered include five exotic cars, two brand new motorcycles,
forty mobile phones, fifteen laptops, three 4G routers, one apple
eye watch, several MTN SIM cards and one international passport,
among others.
They will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-21-alleged-cybercriminals-in-ibadan
*********************************************
30 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 23 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN ENUGU
Operatives of the Enugu Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, March 29,
2023, arrested 23 suspected internet fraudsters.
They were arrested along the Monark, Emene and Golf axis
of Enugu state, following actionable intelligence.
The suspects include Ugwuanyi Innocent Kasiemobi, Emmanuel
Chukwu Agwu, Onyeama Christian Arinze, Hycienth Nnabuike
Emmanuel, Chibueze Augustine Oluebube, Ogaraku Chidiebube
Obinna, Chibueze Stanley Onyedikachi, Austus Jeffrey Chiemerem,
Ikechi David Faithful and Okafor Collins Chika.
Others are Chimaobi Chukwu Joshua, Onuoha Miracle Oluebubu,
Udo Ugochukwu Stanley, Igbo Christian Ikenna, Nweke Kingsley
David, Obinna Stanley Obumneme, Okocha Elisha Ewah, Nweke
Cosmas Chidera, Justice Anyaegbunam Mba, David Kingsley Nweke,
Eze Henry Chiwetalu, Nweke Edwin Chidubem and Ikechi David.
Items recovered include six exotic cars: One Mercedez Benz
E350, one Lexus ES350, one Mercedes Benz CLE, one Toyota Camry,
a Toyota Avalon and a black Mercedes Benz.
Other items recovered are forty-three mobile phones, eleven
computers laptops and charms.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be charged
to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-23-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-enugu
*************************************
30 MAR 2023
COVID-19 BENEFITS SCAM: EFCC ARRAIGNS IBADAN
CLUB OWNER FOR ALLEGEDLY DEFRAUDING AMERICANS
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal
Command on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 arraigned the owner of Ibadan
-based Club, De Rock Club, Adepoju Olawale Sunday alias SSG before
Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan,
Oyo State on two separate charges for his alleged involvement in
cybercrime and obtaining money under false pretense to the tune
of N31, 821, 000.00 (Thirty One Million, Eight Hundred and Twenty
One Thousand Naira).
The first charge, containing eight counts, bordering on identity
theft, obtaining COVID – 19 and unemployment benefits from the
United States of America Government, while the other 19- count
charge is premised on transfer of proceeds of crime to one Owoade
Emmanuel David.
Investigations revealed that Adepoju, 36, who claimed to be a
graduate of Industrial Chemistry of the Olabisi Onabanjo University,
Ago Iwoye, Osun State had, during the COVID – 19 pandemic swindled
American government and unsuspecting American citizens thousands
f dollars.
He allegedly stole identities of the American citizens eligible
for the tax refund programme across the U.S and filed the stolen
information to claim the benefits.
Investigations also showed that Adepoju through the US Small Business
Administration (SBA), a programme established in New York City during
Covid-19 to help Americans build resilient businesses, stole personal
identifying information of American citizens which he deployed in
filing false benefits claims.
One of the eight-counts read, “That you, Adepoju Olawale Sunday (aka
SSG), Tope Ogunruku (aka DLA Frd Husband) at large, Owoade Emmanuel
David (.ka. UK CEO Ace Lounge) at large, Desmond (aka Stanf line 2
2022) at large and Blessing (aka Ghost) at large, sometime in 2022
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court conspired to commit
an illegal act to wit; Identity Theft contrary to Sections 27(1)(b)
and 22(2) (b) (ii) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention Etc.)
Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22(2) (b) of the same Act.”
Count two reads: “That you, Adepoju Olawale Sunday (aka SSG), Tope
Ogunruku (aka. DLA Frd Husband) at large, Owoade Emmanuel David (aka
UK CEO Ace Lounge) at large, Desmond (aka Stanf line 2 2022) at large
and Blessing (aka. Ghost) at large, sometime in 2022 within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court conspired to commit an illegal
act to wit; Obtaining COVID – 19 benefits from the United States of
America Government by falsely representing that you are one Joel
Richard Carlson and thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections
8 and 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.”
Count one of the19-counts read: “That you, Adepoju Olawale Sunday
aka SSG on or about the 21st day of September, 2020 did transfer the
sum of N3, 108, 000.00 (Three Million, One Hundred and Eight Thousand
Naira) from your bank account domiciled at Guaranty Trust Bank with
account number: 0050174721 to one Owoade Emmanuel David (aka UK CEO
Ace Lounge) through his bank account domiciled at First City Monument
Bank account number: 2875316012, which money you reasonably ought to
have known forms part of the proceed of an unlawful act thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 15(2) of the Money Laundering
(Prohibition) Act, 2011 (As Amended) and punishable under Section 15(3)
of the same Act.”
The defendant pleaded ‘not guilty’ when the charges were read to him.
Consequently, the prosecution counsel, Mabas Mabur asked the court
for a trial date and remand the defendant pending the determination
of the case.
However, counsel to the defendant, Olaniyi George informed the court
that he has filed two separate bail applications on behalf of his
client and prayed the court to grant the defendant bail.
However, Mabur told the court to reject the applications on the grounds
that the defendant is a flight risk who has pending charges against him
in other law courts.
Justice Agomoh, adjourned the matter till April 18, 2023 for ruling
and ordered that the defendant be remanded in the Agodi Correctional
facility.
The defendant was arrested on August 31, 2022, alongside 21 other
suspected internet fraudsters, in an intelligence-driven operation
carried out by the operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the EFCC.
He was arrested with a 2020 Range Rover HSE Sports Utility Vehicle,
an iPhone 13 Pro Max and Hp laptop, among others.
The press release contains a photo:
covid-19-benefits-scam-efcc-arraigns-ibadan-club-owner-for-allegedly-defrauding-americans
******************************************
29 MAR 2023
COURT SENDS TWO FRAUDSTERS TO PRISON IN WARRI
Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri,
Delta State on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, convicted and sentenced
the duo of Malvis Bello and Abel Peter to prison for fraud.
Bello and Peter were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of
the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on separate one
count charges of fraudulent impersonation and attempting to
obtain by false pretense from unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Malvis Bello reads. “That you, Malvis Bello
(Alex Wrang and Pinky Jenny) on or about the 9th day of March,
2021 in Benin City within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, fraudulently impersonated one Valeries Holl, a white man
by using GmailKingsmavis@gmail.com to obtain money from one
Rebecca Brown and sending fictitious document to your advantage,
the pretense 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 defendants pleaded guilty to the charges,
prompting the prosecution counsel, I.M. Elodi to pray the court
to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, the defense
counsel, A.S. Akinfolarin pleaded with the court to temper justice
with mercy as the defendants were first-time offenders who have
become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Abang convicted and sentenced Bello to two years imprisonment
without an option of fine while Peter bagged six months imprisonment
with an option of Five Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
The defendants are to forfeit their phones to the Federal Government
of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-sends-two-fraudsters-to-prison-in-warri
****************************************
29 MAR 2023
TWO INTERNET FRAUDSTERS BAG THREE YEARS IMPRISONMENT
IN BENIN
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 secured the conviction
of two internet fraudsters before Justice M.E. Itsueli of Edo
State High Court Benin City for fraud.
The defendants, Edebor Francis Tobiola and Okosun Samuel, were
arraigned on one count charge each for offences bordering on
impersonation. The duo had represented themselves as foreign
nationals on social media platforms in their attempt to defraud
unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Edebor Francis Tobiola reads: “That you,
Edebor Francis Tobilola (M) sometime in 2022 in Benin City,
Edo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
with intent to defraud represent yourself on Facebook to be
one Moonsik Kwon, a Korean designer 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 their
respective charges, prompting prosecution counsel, K.Y.
Bello to pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Tobilola and Samuel to
three years imprisonment with an option of N200,000 fine each.
The judge also ordered the forfeiture of Laptop and phones
recovered from the to the Federal government of Nigeria and
the closure of their bank accounts.
The press release contains a photo of each 419er:
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-three-years-imprisonment-in-benin
***************************************
29 MAR 2023
SEVEN INTERNET FRAUD SUSPECTS IN EFCC'S NET
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Abuja Zonal
Command on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, arrested seven suspected
internet fraudsters.
The suspects, Peter Omega Awupri, Philip Okonkwo, Emeka Okonkwo
and Williams Chukwu. Others include Stephen Anthony, Edobor Osas
and Adetola Sunday, were arrested in Gwarimpa, Abuja following
credible intelligence on their alleged criminal activities.
Eight phones, four laptops, three international passports, smart
watch, a Lexus and Toyota cars were seized from the suspects.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigations are
concluded.
The press release contains photos:
seven-internet-fraud-suspects-in-efcc-s-net
*****************************************
28 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 18 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS IN UYO
Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, March 24, 2023 arrested eighteen
(18) suspected internet fraudsters at different locations in Uyo and
Mberebe, in Etinan Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State.
The suspects whose ages range between 19 and 31, were arrested following
actionable intelligence linking them to alleged online criminal activities.
Items recovered from them include laptops, mobile phones and a Point of S
ale (POS) machine.
The suspects will be arraigned as soon as the investigations are
concluded
The press release contains photos:
efcc-arrests-18-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-uyo
********************************************
27 MAR 2023
NEW EFCC LAGOS COMMANDER CHARGES STAFF ON PROFESSIONALISM,
DILIGENCE
The new Lagos Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, ACE 11 Michael Wetkas, has urged
officers in the Command to always demonstrate professionalism
and diligence in the discharge of their duties.
Wetkas, who took over from ACE 11 Ahmed Ghali, who has been
deployed to the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the EFCC, gave
the charge on Monday, March 27, 2023 during his inaugural
meeting with the staff of the Command.
While hammering on discipline, he said: “You are a human being
and you have been asked to judge fellow human beings like you;
therefore, you must be seen as angels and not mere mortals.
“It is a very difficult and demanding task that requires the
fear of God and discipline.
“You cannot abandon case files and be doing other things; you
must ensure that case files are treated without unnecessary
delay.”
Wetkas, who also warned the staff against involvement in any
act of corruption, further said: “How can you fight corruption
and be corrupt yourself? If you are doing that, we will not
condone it. We are here to tell people to do the right things,
so you should not be found doing the same thing.”
The new Lagos Zonal Commander also sought the cooperation of
the staff and assured them of his utmost support, saying, “You
will take the lead, while I follow from behind. I will watch
from behind and watch every one of you. There is no Commander
without a troop, and you are the troop.”
Speaking further, he enjoined the staff to always use “the proper
channels to express a complaint”” rather than engaging in rumours.
Until his new posting, Wetkas was Head of Operations, EFCC
Headquarters.
In a similar development, the new Ag. Commander of the Ibadan
Zonal Command of the Commission, ACE II Rufa’u Halima Mustafa has
vowed to raise the bar set by her predecessors in achieving the
mandate of the Commission. She stated this on Wednesday, March 22,
2023 while taking over from ACE II, Kanu Idagu who has been
redeployed to the Benin Zonal Command.
new-efcc-lagos-commander-charges-staff-on-professionalism-diligence
*****************************************************
23 MAR 2023
COURT SENDS IMPERSONATOR OF JEFFREY SCOTT TO PRISON
IN ASABA
Justice F. A. Olubanjo of the Federal High Court sitting
in Asaba on Thursday March 23, 2023 convicted and sentenced
one Oliseh Emeka to prison for fraud.
Emeka was arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on one count charge of
impersonation and attempting to obtain by false pretence. He
impersonated the identity of Jeffrey Scott with intent to
defraud unsuspecting victims.
The charge against him reads, “That you, OLISEH EMEKA (M)
sometime between February, 2020 and 23rd May, 2022 in Asaba,
Delta State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
did fraudulently impersonate the identity of JEFFREY SCOTT
with the intent to obtain money 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,
prompting the prosecution counsel, F. A. Jirbo to pray the
court to convict and sentence him accordingly. However, the
defence counsel, G. O. Okoro pleaded with the court to temper
justice with mercy, explaining that the defendant was a first
time offender and had become remorseful for his action.
Justice Olubanjo convicted and sentenced the defendant to five
years imprisonment or a fine of N300,000. The defendant is also
to forfeit the phone recovered from him as an instrument of crime
to the Federal government of Nigeria and to undertake in writing
to be of good behaviour forthwith.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
court-sends-impersonator-of-jeffrey-scott-to-prison-in-asaba
**************************************
23 MAR 2023
EFCC NABS CLERIC, TWIN BROTHERS, 25 OTHERS FOR
ALLEGED YAHOO BUSINESS IN ILORIN
Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, March 23,
2023 arrested 28 persons suspected to be “Yahoo-Yahoo Boys”
in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The arrest, which was effected at Mandate Area, Ilorin followed
actionable intelligence on the activities of fraudsters operating
in the area.
Preliminary investigation revealed the identity of the arrested
suspects to include a cleric, twin brothers, 6 students of various
institutions, and mining operator, among others.
They are Toheeb Albarka, cleric; Lambe Kehinde and Lambe Taye,
twin brothers; Francis Stephen, Olabode Yusuf and Musbaudeen
Akorede who trade in dog selling respectively; Moshood Okunola,
Kayode Aderemi, Ayobami Olorunfemi, Paul Ayomide, Agboola
Marvellous and Adebisi Olatunde, who are all undergraduates.
The suspects also include Olaleye Solomon, Miner; Akinade Samuel,
Computer Technician; Damilola Shagaya, Real Estate Developer;
Muhammed Awal, Graphic Designer; Adam Mubarak, Anti-Money
Laundering Analyst; Ogundiran Nathaniel, Tiler; Jamiu Ishola,
Printer; Dauda Tunde, Plumber; Abdullahi Sikiru, Bet 9ja Agent;
Kasali Afeez Adegoke, Web Developer; Jordan Adeyinka, Wears/Shoe
Dealer and a driver, Ojeniyi Boluwatife.
Others are Adedamola Samson, Olarewaju Adisa Taofeek, Adewale
Oloro and Omogbolahan Ibrahim.
Items recovered from the suspects include ten exotic cars,
different brands of laptops, cell phones and printer, among
others.
The suspects would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion
of the ongoing investigations.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-nabs-cleric-twin-brothers-25-others-for-alleged-yahoo-business-in-ilorin
****************************************
22 MAR 2023
YAHOO BOY ARRAIGNED, JAILED FOR $26,020,
N104M LOVE SCAM
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja
Zonal Command, has arraigned one Aiosa Kelvin Orhue before
Justice C.E. Nwecheonwu of the FCT High Court, Kuje, Abuja
on a three count charge bordering on love scam.
One of the counts reads, “that you, Aiosa Kelvin Orhue
(aka Fredrick Leonard) sometime in 2021, at Abuja within
the jurisdiction of the Honourable Court, by false pretense
and with intent to defraud obtained the sum of N104,000,000
(One Hundred and Four Million Naira) only from one Cheryldene
Cook, that you are one Frederick Leonard who is in love with
her and you made her to believe that you are going to marry
her which you knew to be false and you thereby committed an
offence contrary to and punishable under Sections 1 (1)(a)
and 1 (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related
Offences Act, 2006 respectively”.
Another count reads, “Orhue (aka Fredrick Leonard), still
claiming to be in love with Cherydene Cook and using the
Instagram handle @burgerde defrauded her of the sum of
$26,020 (Twenty Six Thousand and Twenty Dollars) only,
an offence contrary to and punishable under Sections 321
and 322 of the Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation
(Abuja) 1990 respectively”.
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
Justice Nwechonwu consequently convicted and sentenced the
defendant to one year imprisonment with an option of fine
of N1, 000,000 (One Million Naira) only.
He is also to forfeit a three bedroom semi-detached duplex
located in Edo state, a Lexus E350 saloon car, the sum of
N19,000,000 (Nineteen Million Naira Only) domiciled in
Zenith Bank Account number 2256646614, all furniture in
above mentioned house, the sum of $1,858.67 (One Thousand
Eight Hundred and Fifty Eight Dollars, Sixty Seven Cents)
domiciled in Access Bank account number 1605720548, the
sum of $1,000 (One Thousand Dollars only) domiciled in
Access Bank account number 1478704498, iPhone 13 Pro Max
and Samsung A31.
All items are to be forfeited to the Federal Government
in restitution to the victim.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
yahoo-boy-arraigned-jailed-for-26-020-n104m-love-scam
*****************************************
22 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRAIGNS MAN FOR $370,000 FRAUD
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has
arraigned one Nwachi Chidozie Kingsley before Justice U.P
Kekemeke of the Federal Capital Territory High Court,
Maitama, Abuja for an alleged $370,000 internet fraud.
He was arraigned on Monday, March 20, 2023 on a two-count
charge bordering on stealing, obtaining by false pretense
and criminal possession of fake documents.
One of the counts reads; “That you, Nwachi Chidozie Kingsley
sometime in 2021 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of the High
Court of Federal Capital Territory, Abuja with intent to defraud
obtained the total sum of Three Hundred and Seventy Thousand
United States Dollars($370,000) from Nicole Kierulff Sayers
under the false pretence of being a purported payment to finance
a contract with Federal Ministry of Works and Housing with
Contract No: RC/FGN/0275AN/20 issued to Nwachi Chidozie Kingsley,
a claim which you knew to be false and thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 1(1)(b) of 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, Nwachi Chidozie Kingsley sometime
in 2021 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of the High Court of
Federal Capital Territory, Abuja did commit an offence by being
in possession of a document containing to wit; ‘Notice of intent
to award letter of Federal Ministry of Works and Housing with
Contract No: RC/FGN/0275AN/20 issued to Nwachi Chidozie Kingsley”
contained in your iPhone 11 Pro Max with IMEI 353894104506455
which you knew the document contained false pretenses and thereby
committed an offence contrary to Section 6 of 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” when the charge was read to
him, prompting the prosecution to pray the court for a trial date
and remand of the defendant. However, the defense team urged the
court to admit the defendant to bail.
Justice Kekemeke admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of
One Hundred Million Naira (N100, 000,000.00) with two sureties
in like sum. One of the sureties must be an owner of a landed
property within the jurisdiction of the court.
The judge ordered the remand of the defendant at the Kuje
Correctional Facility, pending the fulfilment of his bail
conditions. He also adjourned the matter till May 18, 2023
for trial.
Kingsley was arrested on Wednesday February 15, 2023 at the
Sun City Estate, Abuja after a petitioner, Nicole Kierulff Sayers,
an American, alleged that he lured her into falsely marrying him
and carting away her money.
“I was accustomed to transferring money to him and further felt
I had no choice, since I had just married him, even though I did
not feel confident in my choice to have married him”, she said.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arraigns-man-for-370-000-fraud
************************************
22 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 21 SUSPECTED INTERNET FRAUDSTERS
IN BENIN CITY
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC, on Tuesday,
March 21,2023 arrested 21suspected internet fraudsters in Benin
City, Edo State.
The suspects were arrested in an early morning operation following
actionable intelligence.
They include Alakpa Marvelous, Hoghomhen Jude Moses, Christopher
Odion, Azanuwna Joseph, Godfirst Christopher, Eghosa Osaretin, Onus
Honda, Barnabas Alakpa, Junior Azanuwna, Ehis Inegbinebor Francis,
Godbless Eriugo, Imokhai Dickson, Epama Francis, Ekuma Austin and
Sunday Stanley.
Others are Kelly Alakpa, Amiole Paul, Iweriebor Raphael, Sunday
Christian, Imozemhe Raymond and Agbonghae Anthony.
Items recovered from them include two Mercedes Benz, two Lexus
ES 350, one Lexus RX 330 and one Toyota Camry, HP Laptops and
mobile phones.
The suspects have made useful statements and will be charged
to court soon.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-arrests-21-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city
****************************************
18 MAR 2023
EFCC DOCKS MAN FOR ALLEGED $30,000 INTERNET FRAUD
IN PORT HARCOURT
The Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 arraigned
one Atadu Hope Iluoghene before Justice P .I. Ajoku of the
Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on
a 13-counts charge bordering on conspiracy, impersonation,
possession of fraudulent documents, obtaining by false pretence
and money laundering.
One of the counts reads: "That you, Atadu Hope Iluoghene (a.k.a.
Loius) and Atadu Precious Ogheneviomeze (at large) and Crossdele
Edafe Kelly (large) between June 14, 2018 to March 6, 2019,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did transfer
or convert to your use and to the use of others the aggregate
sum of Ninety-Eight Million, Eight Hundred and Ninety-Four
Thousand, Five Hundred Naira (N98,894,500.00) paid into your
United Bank for Africa account of Atadu Hope Iluoghene (a.k.a
Louis), when you all reasonably ought to have known that the
said fund formed part of the proceeds of unlawful activities,
to wit: internet fraud, and commit an offence contrary to Section
15 (2) (b) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, as
amended, and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act”.
Another count reads: "That you, Atadu Hope Iluoghene (a.k.a.
Loius) and Atadu Precious Ogheneviomeze (at large) and Wisdom
Ogaga (large) between November 16, 2020 to December 8, 2020,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did transfer
or convert to your use and to the use of others, the aggregate
sum of Ten Million, One Hundred and Eighty-Two Thousand, Two
Hundred Naira (N10,182,200.00) only paid into United Bank for
Africa account of Atadu Hope Iluoghene (a.k.a Louis), when you
all reasonably ought to have known that the said fund formed
part of the proceeds of unlawful activities , to wit: internet
fraud, and commit an offense contrary to Section 15 (2) (b) of
the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, as amended, and
punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act”.
The defendant pleaded “not guilty” to the charges.
In view of the plea by the defendant, prosecution counsel,
Dr. B. Ubi prayed the court to fix a date for commencement
of trial and the remand of the defendant.
Counsel to the defendant, M. M. Suleiman informed the court
of his application for the bail of the defendant. He also
urged the court to grant the defendant bail to enable him
to prepare for his trial.
Justice Ajoku granted the defendant bail in the sum of Three
Million (N3,000,000.00) and two sureties in like sum. The
sureties must be civil servants in the Service of Rivers
tate of not less than Grade Level 12.
One of the sureties must have a landed property within the
jurisdiction of the court with a Certificate of Occupancy.
Both sureties must also deposit two recent passport photographs
with the court.
The Judge adjourned the matter till June 21, 2023 for commencement
of trial.
Atadu was arrested during a sting operation by operatives of the
Commission in Asaba, Delta State sometime in February, 2022. The
defendant operated fake social media accounts used in defrauding
unsuspecting victims. He allegedly convinced one Nunu into believing he was a Physician from Yemen and defrauded him of the sum of $30,000 USD.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-docks-man-for-alleged-30-000-internet-fraud-in-port-harcourt
******************************************
18 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS ALLEGED SERIAL CANADIAN VISA SCAMMER
IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday,
March 17, 2023 arrested one Enock Ifeoluwa Ogungbamigbe, an
alleged serial visa scammer who specialize in duping Nigerians
desperate to migrate to Canada either to work or further their
education, through fake visa and job offers.
The 32-year old who owns a Garden in Mpape, a suburb of Abuja,
was picked up at Transcorp Hotel, Abuja by operatives of the
Commission, when he responded to an appointment to procure a
visa for an applicant intending to migrate to Canada. Unknown
to him, that it was a bait.
His arrest followed a petition by a victim who lost N5million
to the suspect as processing fees for Visa to Canada. The suspect
had also promised the victim a job upon arrival in Canada. But
he only delivered fake visas to the victims and all efforts to
recover the money were futile.
The suspect would be charged to court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-arrests-alleged-serial-canadian-visa-scammer-in-abuja
*****************************************
16 MAR 2023
EFCC RE-ARRAIGNS BUSINESSWOMAN FOR ALLEGED N110M FRAUD IN LAGOS
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, March 16, 2023, re-arraigned
one Portia Emilia for an alleged N110m fraud before Justice
O.O. Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting in
Ikeja, Lagos.
Emilia was re-arraigned alongside her company, Savanah Crest
Investment Limited, on an amended five-count charge bordering
on conspiracy to steal, contrary to Section 411 and punishable
under section 287 (5) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015;
obtaining money and property by false pretence, contrary to
Section 1(1)(2) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other
Related Fraud Offences Act 2006; Stealing, contrary to Section
280(1) (12)8(7), 285(1) and 278(1)b) of the Criminal Laws of
Lagos State, 2011; and retaining stolen property, contrary
to Section 328 (1) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.
One of the counts reads: "Portia Anthony Emilia and Savanah
Crest Investment Limited, sometime in 2018 in Lagos, within
the jurisdiction of this Honouralble Court, with intent to
defraud, stole and dishonestly converted to your own the sum
of N40,000,000.00 (Forty million Naira only)".
Another count reads: "Portia Anthony Emilia and Savanah Crest
Investment Limited, sometime in 2018 in Lagos, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud,
fraudulently obtained the sum of N20,000,000.00 (Twenty million
Naira) from one Wendy Daniel."
Emilia, who also took the plea of the company, pleaded "not
guilty" to all the charges.
The prosecution counsel, F. Ofoma, informed the court that
the prosecution would close its case, having called two
witnesses, through whom several documentary evidence were
tendered.
"The prosecution hereby applies to close its case," he said.
The defence counsel, J.J. Amodu, prayed the court for an
adjournment to enable him prepare for his case.
"We also pray this Honourable Court to, upon the re-arraignment
of the defendant, allow her to continue to enjoy the bail earlier
granted by the court," he said.
The prayer of the defence was granted and the case adjourned
till June 22, 2023 for defence.
The press release includes a photo:
efcc-re-arraigns-businesswoman-for-alleged-n110m-fraud-in-lagos
********************************************
14 MAR 2023
EFCC ARRESTS 21 ALLEGED YAHOO BOYS IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, today,
March 14, 2023 arrested 21 suspected internet fraudsters.
The suspects include Joseph Boniface, Emmaneul Okwara,
Elijah Iwebie, Moses Hassan, Abdulrahman Lawal, Azu
Chidubem Eugene, Abdullahi Adebola and Elijah Simon.
Others are Terfa Lincoln, David Kome, Chukwudah Martinez,
Adie Matthew, Canice Agabi, Abbas Aminu, Damilare James
and Christopher Simon. Also arrested include Mohammed
Abdulhamid, Ifeanyi Bosah, Ayuba Aminu, Godwin Terkura
and Victor Ademola.
They were nabbed in the Lugbe and Kubwa suburbs of Abuja,
following actionable intelligence on their alleged internet
-related fraud activities
More than 25 high-end mobile phones, 3 laptops and Mercedes
CLA250 and C300 cars were recovered from the suspects.
They will be charged to court as soon as the investigations
are concluded.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-21-alleged-yahoo-boys-in-abuja
**************************************
9 MAR 2023
PORT HARCOURT STUDENT BAGS ONE YEAR FOR INTERNET FRAUD
Justice A. T. Mohammed of the Federal High Court sitting
in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has convicted and sentenced
an internet fraudster, Lucky Victor Chinonso, who is also
a student, to one year imprisonment for impersonation contrary
to Section 22(2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.
He was jailed on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, after pleading
"guilty" to the two count charge preferred against him by
the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Count one of the charge reads: “That you, Lucky Victor Chinonso
sometimes in March, 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court fraudulently impersonated one Angel Williams, via your Google
account-angelwilliams4526@gmail.com 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) of the same Act”.
Prosecution counsel, K. A. Yunus prayed the court to convict and
sentence the defendant in line with his plea.
Counsel to the defendant, S. N. Nule urged the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendant is a student and first time
offender with no previous criminal record.
Justice Muhammed convicted and sentenced the defendant, to one
year imprisonment on counts one and count two with Two Hundred
Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) option of fine or three months
community service at the premises of the EFCC Port Harcourt
Command.
In addition, the Court ordered that one iPhone 11Pro Max and
one Vivo mobile device recovered from the convict be forfeited
to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The convict was arrested by the operatives of the Commission
on the 28th July, 2022 at Eneka Link Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers
State
Investigation revealed that the convict operated a Gmail account
with the name Angel Williams which he used in defrauding his victims
through romance scam.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
port-harcourt-student-bags-one-year-for-internet-fraud
***************************************
9 MAR 2023
TWO INTERNET FRAUDSTERS JAILED SIX MONTHS IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Abuja
Zonal Command today, March 8, 2023 arraigned the duo of
Ogbonna Clinton and Ezurumike Precious before Justice C.O
Agashieze of the FCT High Court, Lugbe Abuja for their
alleged involvement in internet fraud.
Ogbonna, sometime in 2022 impersonated one Engr. Charles
Aat Khaha on a social media platform to obtain the sum
of $2,200 (Two Thousand Two Hundred Dollars Only) from
one Kim Le, a Chinese citizen.
Ezurumike on the other hand assumed the role of a picker
and seller of gift cards which he got from a syndicate of
fraudsters and benefitted the sum of N1, 326,000 (One
Million Three Hundred and Twenty Six Thousand Naira Only).
They both pleaded guilty when their charges were read to
them.
Justice Agashieze convicted and sentenced them to 6 months
in prison without an option of fine.
Ogbonna who had earlier restituted $1,200 (One Thousand Two
Hundred Dollars Only) is to forfeit his HP laptop to the Federal
Government, while Ezurumike is also to forfeit his 2 phones,
three laptops and N150, 000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand
Naira Only) to the Federal Government.
The press release contains photos of both 419ers:
two-internet-fraudsters-jailed-six-months-in-abuja
**************************************
9 MAR 2023
COURT JAILS FAKE ESTEFANI CASTELLANOS, TWO OTHERS
IN BENIN CITY
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on March 8, 2023 secured the conviction of
three internet fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of
Edo State High Court, Benin City.
The convicts - Osayi Gregory, Smart Okunrobo and Justice
Osagie Beggedo- were arraigned on separate one count charges
of impersonation and obtaining by false pretence. They had
between 2018 and 2020 impersonated foreign nationals to
defraud unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Gregory reads: “That you, Osayi Gregory
(M) sometime between 2018 and 12th January 2023 in Benin City,
Edo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court
did with intent to defraud represent yourself as Estefani
Castellanos, a 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 charge against Beggedo reads: “That you Justice Osagie
Beggedo (M) sometime between 2020 and 12th January, 2023 in
Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be
Montaya-Jauricell, a lady from the United States of America
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, Francis
A. Jirbo to pray the court to convict and sentence the defendants
accordingly. However, counsel to the defendants, Pascal Ugbome
urged the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendants
have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Gregory and Okunrobo
to three years imprisonment with an option of Five Hundred Thousand
Naira fine while Beggedo bagged three years imprisonment or a fine
of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.
The judge also ordered that two Mercedes Benz GLK 350 cars
belonging to Gregory and Beggedo, the sum of N9, 287,686.90
in First Bank Account operated by Gregory alongside his
accomplice, Osayi Patricia (his mother), the sum of N85, 525.99
in Gregory’s UBA account and phones, being instruments of crime,
be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria through the
EFCC.
The press release contains photos of all three 419ers:
court-jails-fake-estefani-castellanos-two-others-in-benin-city
***************************************
9 MAR 2023
PORT HARCOURT STUDENT BAGS ONE YEAR FOR INTERNET FRAUD
Justice A. T. Mohammed of the Federal High Court sitting
in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has convicted and sentenced
an internet fraudster, Lucky Victor Chinonso, who is also
a student, to one year imprisonment for impersonation
contrary to Section 22(2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.
He was jailed on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, after pleading
"guilty" to the two count charge preferred against him by
the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Count one of the charge reads: “That you, Lucky Victor Chinonso
sometimes in March, 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court fraudulently impersonated one Angel Williams, via your Google
account-angelwilliams4526@gmail.com 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) of the same Act”.
Prosecution counsel, K. A. Yunus prayed the court to convict and
sentence the defendant in line with his plea.
Counsel to the defendant, S. N. Nule urged the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendant is a student and first time
offender with no previous criminal record.
Justice Muhammed convicted and sentenced the defendant, to one
year imprisonment on counts one and count two with Two Hundred
Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) option of fine or three months community
service at the premises of the EFCC Port Harcourt Command.
In addition, the Court ordered that one iPhone 11Pro Max and one
Vivo mobile device recovered from the convict be forfeited to the
Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The convict was arrested by the operatives of the Commission on
the 28th July, 2022 at Eneka Link Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
Investigation revealed that the convict operated a Gmail account
with the name Angel Williams which he used in defrauding his victims
through romance scam.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
port-harcourt-student-bags-one-year-for-internet-fraud
***************************************
9 MAR 2023
TWO INTERNET FRAUDSTERS JAILED SIX MONTHS IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Abuja
Zonal Command today, March 8, 2023 arraigned the duo of
Ogbonna Clinton and Ezurumike Precious before Justice
C.O Agashieze of the FCT High Court, Lugbe Abuja for
their alleged involvement in internet fraud.
Ogbonna, sometime in 2022 impersonated one Engr. Charles
Aat Khaha on a social media platform to obtain the sum of
$2,200 (Two Thousand Two Hundred Dollars Only) from one
Kim Le, a Chinese citizen.
Ezurumike on the other hand assumed the role of a picker
and seller of gift cards which he got from a syndicate of
fraudsters and benefitted the sum of N1, 326,000 (One
Million Three Hundred and Twenty Six Thousand Naira Only).
They both pleaded guilty when their charges were read
to them.
Justice Agashieze convicted and sentenced them to 6 months
in prison without an option of fine.
Ogbonna who had earlier restituted $1,200 (One Thousand Two
Hundred Dollars Only) is to forfeit his HP laptop to the
Federal Government, while Ezurumike is also to forfeit his
2 phones, three laptops and N150, 000 (One Hundred and Fifty
Thousand Naira Only) to the Federal Government.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
two-internet-fraudsters-jailed-six-months-in-abuja
***************************************
8 MAR 2023
COURT SENDS 12 INTERNET FRAUDSTERS TO PRISON
IN BENIN CITY
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Tuesday,
March 7, 2023, secured the conviction of fourteen internet
fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High
Court Benin City.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC
on a separate one-count charge of fraudulent personation.
The convicts are Gift Patrick, Lucky Paul Omofureta, Elvis
John Mathew, Jeremiah Rebirth Umoru, Alex Aimuawosa Yuodegha
and Daniel Mathew.
Others are; Edefe Isaiah, Ese Isaiah, Osas Igho Amos, Destiny
Aghayere, Christian Oghenekewe, God's power Osabuohien, Wisdom
Christopher and Favour Osaghale.
The charge against Edefe Isaiah reads: “That you, Edefe Isaiah
(M) sometime between 2021 and 15th December 2022 in Benin City,
Edo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Cheng Hen 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 Daniel Mathew reads: “That you, Daniel Mathew
(M) sometime between the month of May and 15th December 2022 in
Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Martin
Strauss, an Orthopedic Doctor from USA 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 upon arraignment pleaded guilty to their respective
charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, Francis. A. Jirbo to
pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendants, A.J. Benga prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy as they have become remorseful of their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Isaiah to three years
imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
Furthermore, Patrick, Omofureta, Mathew, Umoru, Yuodegha, Isaiah,
Amos, Aghayere, Oghenekewe, Christopher and Osabuohien bagged two
years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira each.
However, the duo of Mathew and Osaghale were sentenced to community
service.
The judge also ruled that the convicts forfeit their phones and
laptops being instruments of the Federal Government of Nigeria
through the EFCC.
The press release contains photos of all the 419ers:
court-sends-12-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin-city
***************************************
8 MAR 2023
COURT JAILS FAKE ESTEFANI CASTELLANOS, TWO OTHERS
IN BENIN CITY
The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on March 8, 2023 secured the conviction of
three internet fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of
Edo State High Court, Benin City.
The convicts - Osayi Gregory, Smart Okunrobo and Justice Osagie
Beggedo- were arraigned on separate one count charges of
impersonation and obtaining by false pretence. They had between
2018 and 2020 impersonated foreign nationals to defraud
unsuspecting victims.
The charge against Gregory reads: “That you, Osayi Gregory (M)
sometime between 2018 and 12th January 2023 in Benin City, Edo
State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did with
intent to defraud represent yourself as Estefani Castellanos,
a 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 charge against Beggedo reads: “That you Justice Osagie
Beggedo (M) sometime between 2020 and 12th January, 2023 in
Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Montaya
-Jauricell, a lady from the United States of America 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, Francis A. Jirbo to pray
the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendants, Pascal Ugbome urged the court to temper
justice with mercy as the defendants have become remorseful for
their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Gregory and Okunrobo
to three years imprisonment with an option of Five Hundred Thousand
Naira fine while Beggedo bagged three years imprisonment or a fine
of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.
The judge also ordered that two Mercedes Benz GLK 350 cars
belonging to Gregory and Beggedo, the sum of N9, 287,686.90
in First Bank Account operated by Gregory alongside his accomplice,
Osayi Patricia (his mother), the sum of N85, 525.99 in Gregory’s
UBA account and phones, being instruments of crime, be forfeited
to the Federal Government of Nigeria through the EFCC.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-jails-fake-estefani-castellanos-two-others-in-benin-city
*****************************************
8 MAR 2023
COURT SENDS 12 INTERNET FRAUDSTERS TO PRISON IN BENIN CITY
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Tuesday,
March 7, 2023, secured the conviction of fourteen internet
fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High
Court Benin City.
They were arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC on
a separate one-count charge of fraudulent personation.
The convicts are Gift Patrick, Lucky Paul Omofureta, Elvis John
Mathew, Jeremiah Rebirth Umoru, Alex Aimuawosa Yuodegha and Daniel
Mathew.
Others are; Edefe Isaiah, Ese Isaiah, Osas Igho Amos, Destiny
Aghayere, Christian Oghenekewe, God's power Osabuohien, Wisdom
Christopher and Favour Osaghale.
The charge against Edefe Isaiah reads: “That you, Edefe Isaiah
(M) sometime between 2021 and 15th December 2022 in Benin City,
Edo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did
with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Cheng Hen 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 Daniel Mathew reads: “That you, Daniel Mathew
(M) sometime between the month of May and 15th December 2022 in
Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be Martin
Strauss, an Orthopedic Doctor from USA 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 upon arraignment pleaded guilty to their respective
charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, Francis. A. Jirbo to
pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However,
counsel to the defendants, A.J. Benga prayed the court to temper
justice with mercy as they have become remorseful of their actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Isaiah to three years
imprisonment with an option of Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine.
Furthermore, Patrick, Omofureta, Mathew, Umoru, Yuodegha, Isaiah,
Amos, Aghayere, Oghenekewe, Christopher and Osabuohien bagged two
years imprisonment or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira each.
However, the duo of Mathew and Osaghale were sentenced to
community service.
The judge also ruled that the convicts forfeit their phones and
laptops being instruments of the Federal Government of Nigeria
through the EFCC.
The press release contains photos of the 419ers:
court-sends-12-internet-fraudsters-to-prison-in-benin-city
*********************************************
7 MAR 2023
FASHION DESIGNER, TWO OTHERS JAILED FOR CYBERCRIME
IN KWARA
Justice Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin
has sentenced a 24-year-old fashion designer, Muhammed Ayub
and two others to six years imprisonment for offences bordering
on internet fraud and possession of fraudulent funds.
The two others are Odelade Samuel and Olowokere Jamiu.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 arraigned trio
on separate charges, to which they pleaded guilty.
Count one of the charge against Odelade reads:
“That you, Odelade Samuel sometime between January 2021 and
December 2022 in Ilorin, Kwara State within the jurisdiction
of this Honorable Court did knowingly had under your control
the gross sum of Three Million, Five Hundred and Thirteen
Thousand, Five Hundred and Forty Nine Naira Only) (3,513,549)
paid into your Union Bank Account no 0123132913 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 law and punishable under the same
ection.”
Upon the guilty pleas by the defendants, Sesan Ola and Rashidat
Alao who prosecuted the cases on behalf of the Commission reviewed
the facts of the cases through witnesses who are operatives of
the EFCC.
In his judgment, Justice Yusuf said the prosecution had established
the essential ingredients of the cases to warrant the conviction of
the defendants.
The Judge sentenced Ayub to six months imprisonment with option of
N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only) and ordered that one iPhone 7,
one apple iPhone 12 and the sum of $700 (Seven Hundred USD) which
the convict raised as restitution be forfeited to the Federal
Government. The court also ordered the convict to bring the sum
of $250 (Two Hundred and Fifty USD) as restitution
Similarly, Odelade bagged six months imprisonment on each of the
two counts with option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira Only).
The judge ordered that one iPhone 12 Pro Max, HP laptop and a Lexus
Car and the sum of N780,000 (Seven Hundred and Eighty Thousand Naira
Only) which he raised as restitution be forfeited to the Federal
Government.
In the same vein, Justice Yusuf sentenced Olowokere to six months
imprisonment with option of N50,000 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only) on
each count. The court ordered the forfeiture of convict's iPhone 11
and the sum of $1350 (One Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty USD)
to Federal Government.
The press release contains photos of all three 419ers:
fashion-designer-two-others-jailed-for-cybercrime-in-kwara
**************************************
7 MAR 2023
FINALLY, EFCC ARRAIGNS ZAURA FOR ALLEGED $1.320M FRAUD
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Wednesday March
1, 2023 arraigned Abdulsalam Saleh Abdulkarim before Justice
Mohammed Nasir Yunusa of the Federal High Court Kano.
The defendant, popularly known as A.A Zaura, was arraigned on
a four count charge of obtaining by false pretense.
One of the charge read “That you, Abdulkarim Saleh Abdulssalam,
sometime in August 2014, at Kano within the Kano Judicial Division
of the High Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of Two
Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000.00) from Dr. Jamman Al- Azmi
when you represented that you have the capacity to partner with
him for a joint venture business, which representation 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”.
Zaura pleaded not guilty to the charges when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, counsel for the prosecution Aisha Tahar Habib
asked for a trial date.
Counsel representing the defendant, Ishaq Mudi Dikko, SAN,
applied for bail on behalf of his client.
After a brief argument between the parties Justice, Yunusa ruled
that the defendant continue with the bail terms earlier granted
to him by the court.
The matter has been adjourned till May 2, 2023 for the commencement
of retrial.
The defendant’s trial is starting afresh after the Court of Appeal
nullified his discharge and acquittal on fraud charges by Justice
A. L Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Kano. Zaura is alleged to
have defrauded 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.
The press release includes a photo:
inally-efcc-arraigns-zaura-for-alleged-1-320m-fraud
*****************************************
24 FEB 2023
COURT JAILS MAN THREE YEARS FOR IMPERSONATION
IN LAGOS
Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court sitting
in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, convicted
and sentenced one Abdulrahman Ridwan Opeyemi, who was prosecuted
on a one-count charge bordering on impersonation, to three years
imprisonment.
The count reads; “That you, ABDULRAHMAN RIDWAN OPEYEMI, sometime
in 2022 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court,
fraudulently impersonated one Keena Butler by holding yourself
out as such on Google Chat App, with intent to gain advantage
for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to and
punishable under Section 22(3](c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention etc) Act, 2015.”
He pleaded “guilty” to the charge preferred against him.
In view of his guilty plea, the prosecution counsel, C.C Okezie,
through a witness, Onoja Peace Ene, an operative of the EFCC,
gave a review of the facts to prove the case against the defendant.
The witness narrated to the court that Opeyemi was arrested,
following credible intelligence received by the Commission on
the activities of some internet fraudsters around the Lekki-
Ajah axis of Lagos State in 2022,
Opeyemi, according to Ene, admitted in his statement to the
Commission admitted that he was into dating scam and posed
as a woman on Google and Tik Tok apps.
“He also wrote that he had defrauded more than three clients
and also benefited the sum of $4000 (Four Thousand Dollars.).
“An iPhone 11 Pro Max, Apple laptop and one Nokia touch light
phone were recovered from him.
“The laptop and phone were taken to the Forensic Department
for analysis, where fraudulent documents were printed out from
them.
“The defendant endorsed it and it was filled accordingly,” she
further told the court.
The witness added that Opeyemi, upon arrest, restituted the sum
of N300,000(Three Hundred Thousand Naira) to the Federal Government
recovery fund account.
The prosecution then sought to tender the IPhone, Nokia phone,
laptop, statements and bank draft as evidence.
The Judge admitted all the documents as exhibit A,A1, B,C,D
and E.
The prosecution, therefore, prayed the court to convict the
defendant.
Justice Oweibo reviewed the facts of the case and convicted
the defendant.
The defence counsel, Bimbo Adelaja, prayed the court to tamper
justice with mercy, saying, “he is a first-time offender. He did
not waste the time of the court and is repentant."
Adelaja also prayed that a second chance be given to the defendant
“since he is still in the university and can still be of benefit
to the society.”
Delivering judgement, Justice Nicholas Oweibo sentenced him to
three years imprisonment, with an option of fine in the sum of
N150,00( One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira).
The Judge also ordered that the laptop and mobile phones
recovered from him be forfeited to the Federal Government.
court-jails-man-three-years-for-impersonation-in-lagos
***********************************
24 FEB 2023
COURT JAILS MAN ONE YEAR FOR POSSESSION
OF FRAUDULENT DOCUMENTS IN LAGOS
Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, sentenced
one Enofe Destiny to one year imprisonment for possession of
fraudulent documents.
Destiny was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Command of the
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on an amended
one- count charge bordering on possession of documents containing
false pretence,contrary to Section 318 of the Criminal Law of
Lagos State 2011.
The count reads: "ENOFE DESTINY, sometime on the 21st of September,
2022 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
had in your possession a Facebook profile of a Chinese celebrity
Allen Ren, which you created for the purpose of false representation
of yourself as Allen Ren, a representation of which from the circumstance
of this case you knew or reasonably ought to know to be false pretence."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charge.
Following his guilty plea, the prosecution counsel, G.C. Akaogu,
gave a review of the facts to prove the case against the defendant.
"Sometime in September 2022, operatives of the EFCC, following
intelligence report, conducted a raid in Lekki, Lagos State, wherein
the defendant was arrested alongside other suspected fraudsters
engaging in cryptocurrency fraud and bank fraud," he said.
According to him, upon his arrest, one iPhone 12 Pro Max; iPhone
X; an unregistered white-coloured Mercedes Benz GLE 43, 2018 model
and 26 bundles of N100 totaling N260,000.00 were recovered from him.
"After his arrest, his phone was analyzed in his presence and
bundles of fraudulent documents were printed out in his presence,"
he added.
The documents, among others, included a conversation wherein he
fraudulently represented himself in a Facebook profile as a Chinese
celebrity, Allen Ren, which he created for the purpose of defrauding
his victims.
"When he was confronted with the said documents, he admitted to
engaging in dating and romance scam," Akaogu also told the court.
He further added that a bitcoin wallet total of 2.05689805 BTC
worth $39,212.31 USD (Thirty-Nine Thousand, Two Hundred and Twelve
United States Dollars, Thirty-One Cents) were recovered from him.
The prosecution tendered in evidence the confessional statements
of the defendant, the bundle of fraudulent documents printed out
from his devices, a copy of the EFCC exhibit form as well as other
items recovered from him.
They were all admitted in evidence against him.
In view of this, the prosecution urged the court to convict the
defendant as charged and to also order the forfeiture of the items
recovered from him to the Federal Government.
Justice Oshodi declared him guilty as charged.
In the allocutus, the defence counsel, Melvin Obadea, pleaded
with the court to temper justice with mercy.
Delivering judgement, Justice Oshodi sentenced him to one year
in prison, with an option of fine of N5 million and 200 hours
community service.
Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the
Federal Government.
court-jails-man-one-year-for-possession-of-fraudulent-documents-in-lagos
**************************************
24 FEB 2023
COURT SENDS INTERNET FRAUDSTER TO JAIL
FOR IMPERSONATION
Justice S. I. Mark of the Federal High Court sitting in
Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has convicted and sentenced
an internet fraudster, Mba Chimuanya Fredrick to two years
in prison for impersonation contrary to Section 22 (2) (b)
(ii) of the Cyber Crime (Prohibition, Prevention Etc) Act,
2015.
He was jailed on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, after pleading
"guilty" to a one count charge preferred against him by the
Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge reads: “That you, Mba Chimuanya Fredrick Sometime
in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
fraudulently impersonated one Kerry James, an American citizen
in your Gmail and Telegram accounts with intent to gain advantage
for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
22 (2) (b) (ii) of the Cyber Crime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc)
Act, 2015, and punishable under section 22 (2) (b) (iv) of the
same Act”.
Justice Mark convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years
with One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000.00) as an option of
fine payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria.
The judge also ordered that one white iPhone X Max, one iPhone
13 Pro Max and one Redmi note 9 recovered from the convict be
forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The convict is also to depose an affidavit of good behavior
before the court.
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-for-impersonation
************************************
24 FEB 2023
MAN BAGS SIX MONTHS JAIL TERM FOR INTERNET FRAUD
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 secured the
conviction of one Eyang Bethel Eyam before Justice C.O. Agashieze
of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Kwali, on a
one count charge bordering on internet fraud.
The charge reads, "that you, Eyang Bethel Eyam ‘M’ 23 years
old sometime in 2022 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of the
High Court of the Federal Capital Territory did cheat by
impersonation when you presented yourself to two Chinese women
using the profile names ‘Chen’, ‘Chengi’ and ‘Ziang’ on WECHAT
and INSTAGRAM online apps and obtained the sums of 8,000 and
50000 Yauns, where you benefited the sum of Six Hundred Thousand
Naira (N600,000) which was paid into your Zenith Bank account
number 2253820008, a fact you know to be false and you 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 Law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge and was convicted
and sentenced by Justice Agashieze to six months in prison
without an option of fine.
He is also to forfeit his phone and the financial proceeds
of his crime (N600, 000) to the Federal Government.
man-bags-six-months-jail-term-for-internet-fraud
**********************************
20 FEB 2023
COURT SENDS FRAUDSTER WHO IMPERSONATED NOLLYWOOD
ACTOR, NINALOWO, TWO OTHERS, TO JAIL IN WARRI
Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri,
on Friday, February 17, 2023, convicted and sentenced three
internet fraudsters, Onukwugha Favour, Lawrence David and Omoghan
Destiny Igbinosa, to prison on separate one count charge of
impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
The charge against Igbinosa reads: "That you, OMOGHAN DESTINY
IGBINOSA sometime between 2021 and 2022 at Benin, Edo State within
the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate
the Identity of NINALOWO BOLANLE, a Nollywood Actor by fraudulently
sending documents to one NEWON QUANON through the internet which
documents you claim emanated from the said NINALOWO BOLANLE with
the 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 charge against Favour reads: "That you, ONUKWUGHA FAVOUR
sometime between 2021 and 2022 at Benin, Edo State within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate
the Identity of MARIAH_ 1812, a Citizen of United States of America
by fraudulently sending documents to unsuspecting victims through
the internet which documents you claim emanated from the said
MARIAH_1812 with the intent to obtain money 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 defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charge. In view of their plea, the prosecution counsel, I. M.Elodi
prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. The
defence counsel, A.J. Onwuanaje and Dickson Egberume pleaded with
he court to temper justice with mercy, saying that the defendants
have become remorseful for their actions.
Justice Abang convicted and sentenced Igbinosa to two years
imprisonment or a fine of One Million Naira. The defendant is
also to forfeit the sum of $2,235.00 and his mobile phone to
the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The duo of Favour and David bagged one year imprisonment each
or a fine of N500,000 and N200,000 respectively. They are also
to forfeit their phones to the Federal Government of Nigeria and
to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour henceforth.
court-sends-fraudster-who-impersonated-nollywood-actor-ninalowo-two-others-to-jail-in-warri
**************************************
18 FEB 2023
INTERNET FRAUDSTER CONVICTED IN MAKURDI
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Makurdi Zonal Command on February 15, 2023 secured
the conviction of one Emmanuel Innocent Ochogwu on
one count charge of fraud before Justice James
Kolawole Omotosho of the Federal High Court Maitama,
Abuja.
The count reads: "That you, Emmanuel Innocent Ochogwu
"M" sometime in January, 2022 in Makurdi, Benue State
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did
fraudulently frank electronic message by which you
represented yourself to be one NOAL HILLS, a Military
Doctor from United State of America on Instagram and
obtained from one Miss. PETRA BONACOVA, a Czech Republic
National, the sum of $104 USD (One Hundred and Four
Dollars) worth of Bitcoin, which you converted and
transferred to your Zenith Bank Account No. 2264654328
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section
14(3) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc)
Act, 2015 and punishable under the same Section of
the Act ".
When the charge was read to the defendant, he pleaded
guilty.
Consequently, Justice Omotosho convicted and sentenced
Ochogwu to one year imprisonment or a fine of N50, 000
(Fifty Thousand Naira).
He is also to forfeit his INFINIX HOT 8 phone and the
amount in his Zenith bank account to Federal Government
of Nigeria, while the account will be closed forthwith.
internet-fraudster-convicted-in-makurdi
*************************************
17 FEB 2023
EFCC DOCKS YAHOO 'PORN STAR'
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja
Zonal Command, today, February 16, 2023 arraigned one Emmanuel
Bassey before Justice J.A Aina of the FCT High Court, Kuje
on one count charge bordering personation.
The charge reads, "that you, Emmanuel Bassey (aka Natasha)
sometime in 2022 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this
Honourable Court, through a platform called Reddit cheats
by pretending to be a porn star named Natasha, in that regard
you pose as female to trick your victims, which delivered to
you the sum of $300 (Three Hundred Dollars) 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".
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge and was offered
bail in the sum of N50,000 and a surety in like sum who must
not be less than a Grade Level 10 officer in the civil service.
Justice Aina remanded the defendant at the Kuje Correctional
Centre pending the fulfilment of bail conditions, and adjourned
the matter till April 17, 2023 for commencement of trial.
efcc-docks-yahoo-porn-star
*************************************
17 FEB 2023
INTERNET FRAUDSTER BAGS ONE YEAR JAIL TERM
IN PORT HARCOURT
An internet fraudster, Life Samuel Attai has been convicted and
sentenced to one year in prison by Justice P. I. Ajoku of the Federal
High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State for impersonation
contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
He was jailed after pleading “guilty” to a one count charge preferred
against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Port
Harcourt Command, on Wednesday February 15, 2023.
The Charge reads: "That you, Life Samuel Attai sometime in March, 2022
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court fraudulently impersonated
one Shar, a white man via your WhatsApp 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) of the same Act".
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, M. Abubakar prayed the court
to convict and sentence the defendant as charged.
Counsel to the defendant, F. A. Biya urged the court to temper justice
with mercy stressing that he is a first-time offender with no previous
criminal record.
Justice Ajoku convicted and sentenced Attai to one year imprisonment
with an option of fine of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000.00) payable
into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federation.
In addition, the Court ordered that one black Tecno Pop 3 and one Tecno
mobile phone recovered from the convict be forfeited to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The convict was arrested at Eneka, Port Harcourt, Rivers State on
July 28, 2022, for suspected internet fraud activities.
Investigation revealed that he operated three social media accounts
which he used in defrauding his victims through romance scam.
internet-fraudster-bags-one-year-jail-term-in-port-harcourt
************************************
17 FEB 2023
COURT JAILS MAN TWO YEARS FOR POSSESSION OF FRAUDULENT
DOCUMENTS IN LAGOS
Justice O.O. Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court
sitting in Ikeja, on Thursday, February 16, 2023, sentenced
one Chris Nnaji to two years imprisonment for possession of
fraudulent documents.
Nnaji was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on an amended two-count
charge bordering on possession of documents containing false
pretence, contrary to Section 320 of the Criminal Law of Lagos
State.
Count one reads: "Chris Nnaji, sometime in the month of November
2022 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
with intent to defraud, had in your possession documents containing
false pretences to wit "Letter of Authorization/Payment", which
document you knew to be false."
Count two reads: "Chris Nnaji, sometime in the month of November
2022 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court,
with intent to defraud, had in your possession several documents
containing false pretences, which documents you knew to be false."
He pleaded "guilty" to the charges.
Following his guilty plea, the prosecuting counsel, T.J. Banjo,
gave a review of the facts of the case to prove the guilt of the
defendant.
Adopting the facts of the case, he said: "Sometime in February
2022, the Lagos Command of the EFCC received a petition from
Access Bank on the activities of not just an organised cybercriminals,
but businessmen."
"Investigation was conducted and the defendant was arrested."
"It was uncovered that he belonged to a group called Businessmen
on WhatsApp to source for account details capable of holding huge
sums of amount."
"They make use of old Access Bank cards and Union Bank to carry
out fraudulent activities, using false documents to deceive their
victims to extort money from them."
He further told the court that two mobile phones were recovered
from him and analysed.
"Several fraudulent documents were printed out from his mobile
devices in his presence," he added.
The prosecution then tendered in evidence the statements made by
the defendant and the fraudulent documents obtained from his devices.
There was no objection from the defence counsel, Ugochukwu Jonathan;
hence, they were all admitted by the Court as evidence against the
defendant.
In view of this, the prosecution urged the court to convict the
defendant as charged and to order the forfeiture of the devices
recovered from him to the Federal Government.
Justice Abike-Fadipe declared him guilty as charged.
The defendant who was given an opportunity to address the court
pleaded for mercy.
His counsel also prayed the court to temper justice with mercy,
adding that the convict was a first-time offender.
"We plead for a non-custodial sentence," he said.
Justice Abike-Fadipe sentenced him to one year on each of the counts.
The sentences are to run concurrently.
He was, however, given an option of N1 million fine, with 100 hours
community service.
Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
court-jails-man-two-years-for-possession-of-fraudulent-documents-in-lagos
*********************************************
17 FEB 2023
INTERNET FRAUDSTER JAILED ONE YEAR IN ABUJA
The Abuja Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, today, February 16, 2023 arraigned one Chima
Bede Osuji on a one count charge before Justice I. Mohammed
Sani of the FCT High Court Gwagwalada.
The charge reads, "that you, Chima Bede Osuji sometime in
January 2022 at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did attempt to cheat by personation when you created a
Facebook account with the profile name of Kia Hia Dominic,
a Thailand citizen and a telecom technician based in Madison,
New Jersey, United States of America, with intent to gain
advantage for yourself, a representation you know to be false
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 95 of the
Penal Code Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990 and
punishable under Section 322 of the same Laws".
He pleaded guilty to the charge.
After a review of the facts of the case by the prosecuting
counsel, Justice Sani convicted and sentenced the defendant
o one year imprisonment with the option of fine of N100, 000
(One Hundred Thousand Naira ). He is also to forfeit his HP
laptop to the Federal Government.
internet-fraudster-jailed-one-year-in-abuja
***************************************
15 FEB 2023
YAHOO BOY JAILED FIVE YEARS IN KADUNA
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, today, February 15, 2023 secured the conviction
of one Olanrewaju Temitope before Justice A.A Bello of the Kaduna
State High Court on a one count charge bordering on cybercrime.
The charge reads, "that you, Olanrewaju Temitope 'M' sometimes
between January, 2022 to July, 2022 in Kaduna within the Judicial
Division of this Honourable Court dishonestly induced one Elexis
McCrills ( on Instagram, a social media application) to deliver
to you the sum of 400 USD ( Four Hundred U.S Dollars) when you
portrayed yourself to be Lisa Marie Boothe (a female which you
knew you were not) 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 and the prosecuting counsel, P.C Onyeneho urged
the court to convict the defendant accordingly. Justice Bello convicted
and sentenced the defendant to 5years imprisonment or pay a fine of
One Hundred Thousand Naira. In addition, he is to forfeit his Infinix
Zero X cell phone with IMEI number 351240990699206, and 3512400990699214,
which was used to commit the crime, to the Federal Government Nigeria.
Temitope was arrested in a sting operation at his hideout located
on Joel Bala Street, Gbagyi Villa Kaduna. Investigation revealed
that he operated a fake Facebook and Instagram account where he
assumed the identities of one Lisa Marie to defraud unsuspecting
victims, mostly American residents, of their hard earned money.
yahoo-boy-jailed-five-years-in-kaduna
***********************************
14 FEB 2023
FAKE EFCC CHAIRMAN ARRESTED IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on
Tuesday, February 14, 2023, arrested one Salman Umar Hudu,
a 38-year-old indigene of Kano, at a hotel in Abuja, for
falsely representing himself as the Executive Chairman
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Abdulrasheed Bawa, and other officers of the Commission,
and obtaining N100, 000.00(One Hundred Thousand Naira)
from a person he convinced that he can 'handle' any
matter with the EFCC.
The suspect has given useful information and will be
charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
fake-efcc-chairman-arrested-in-abuja
************************************
13 FEB 2023
MAN JAILED FOR ROMANCE SCAM IN MAKURDI
Justice Abdul Dogo of the Federal High Court sitting in Makurdi,
Benue State on Monday, February 13, 2023, convicted and sentenced
one Abah Stephen to two year imprisonment for fraud.
Stephen was arraigned on one count charge by the Makurdi Zonal
Command of the EFCC for fraudulent impersonation.
The charge reads: "That you, Abah Stephen, sometime in 2022, at
Makurdi, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, by
deceit pretended to be Johnscot, an American Military Doctor on
peacekeeping mission for the United Nations at Kabul, Afghanistan,
by use of an email account - alexanderscot99@gmail.com induced
and defrauded one Jana Bilkara Czech Republic Citizen who delivered
to you the total sum of Three Thousand Euros, equivalent of
N1,500,000.00, into your United Bank for Africa (UBA), Account
No. 2115293731, in the guise of being in a romantic relationship
with her and 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".
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, George Chai-Yakua
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.
However, the defence counsel, C. C. Egbokwe pleaded with the court
to temper justice with mercy as defendant is a first time offender
who has become remorseful for his action.
Justice Dogo convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years
imprisonment and a fine of Five Hundred Thousand Naira.
The judge also ordered that the mobile phone recovered from the
convict be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
man-jailed-for-romance-scam-in-makurdi
***********************************
11 FEB 2023
ALLEGED $1.32M FRAUD: DEFENCE COUNSEL'S ABSENCE STALLS
ARRAIGNMENT OF KANO SENATORIAL CANDIDATE, ZAURA
The arraignment of the Kano Central Senatorial candidate of the
All Progressive Congress, Abdulkarim Saleh Abdulsalam aka A.A Zaura,
on multiple fraud charges before a Federal High Court, Kano suffered
yet another postponement today, January 30, owing to the absence of
the defence counsel.
It is the fourth time the arraignment failed to proceed mostly
because of the politician's failure to appear in court.
At the last adjourned date, the matter could not go on due to the
absence of both the Zaura and the trial judge.
But Zaura was in court today, having been picked up at his residence
by operatives of the Commission.
However, when the matter was called, the prosecution counsel, A.T Habib
informed the court that she was in receipt of a letter from the defence
counsel, I.G Waru, informing her that he would not be in court as he
has a matter at the Supreme Court.
Justice M. N Yunusa adjourned the matter till February 6, 2023 to enable
Zaura take his plea with his counsel present in court.
Zaura is being re-arraigned by the Kano Zonal Command of the EFCC in
obedience of the Court of Appeal ruling, which directed his retrial
after dismissing his acquittal by Justice A. L Allagoa of the Federal
High Court.
The politician allegedly defrauded a Kuwaiti Citizen of the sum of
$1,320,000 (One Million Three Hundred and Twenty Thousand Dollars)
on the pretext that he is in the business of building properties in
Dubai, Kuwait and other Arab countries.
alleged-1-32m-fraud-defence-counsel-s-absence-stalls-arraignment-of-kano-senatorial-candidate-zaura
**********************************************
11 FEB 2023
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 two internet
fraudsters Efemene Philip Okoloko and Ugbo Donaldson, to various
jail terms in for Impersonation, contrary to Section 22 (2) (b)
of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.
They were jailed on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, after pleading
"guilty" to separate one Count Charge preferred against them by
the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The Charge against Okoloko reads: "That you, Efemene Philip Okoloko
(aka Brian Maxwell) sometime in September, 2022 in Warri, within the
jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate
one Brian Maxwell on Telegram with username I’m Awesome and phone
number +1412-945-0720 with intent to gain advantage for yourself and
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015 and punishable
under Section 22(2) (b) of the same Act".
The charge against Donaldson reads: "That you, Ugbo Donaldson (aka
Linda Hyung, Malone Henrike) on or about 25th July, 2022 at Port
Harcourt, Rivers State within the jurisdiction of the Honourable
Court fraudulently impersonated Linda Hyung 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".
They pleaded “guilty” to the charges preferred against them by the
prosecution.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, O. Amechi and C. M. Asuzu
prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly.
Counsel to the defendants, F. A. Bigha and N. D. Nwonkwo urgeded the
court to temper justice with mercy as they were first time offenders,
with no previous criminal records.
Justice Ajoku convicted and sentenced Okoloko to one year in prison
with an option of fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200, 000.00)
fine; while Donaldson was sentenced to two years with Three Hundred
Thousand Naira (N300,000.00) fine.
The Judge also ordered that, one lback Apple iPhone , ash colour iPhone
6S, one black itel phone, one black Asus laptop and one iPhone 7 recovered
from the convicts arrest be forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The convicts are also to depose an affidavit of good behaviour before
the court.
Okoloko and Donaldson were arrested by operatives of the Commission,
sometimes in July and September, 2022 at Adesa Ughonton, Jedda, Delta
State and Dukobo Street, Corner Stone, Ozouba area of Port Harcourt,
River State during an operation code-named, Eagle Sweep for fraudulent
internet activities.
court-jails-two-internet-fraudsters-in-port-harcourt
******************************************
11 FEB 2023
TWO INTERNET FRAUDSTERS BAG JAIL TERMS IN PORT HARCOURT
Justices S. D. Pam and P. I. Ajoku of the Federal High Court sitting
in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have convicted and sentenced two internet
fraudsters, Asaolu Dare Sunday and Jason Ovesuor to various jail terms
for Impersonation, contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (ii) of the Cybercrimes
(Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.
They were jailed on Thursday, February 2, 2023, after pleading "guilty"
to separate one count charge preferred against them by the Port Harcourt
Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
The charge against Sunday reads: "That you, Asaolu Dare Sunday (aka
Clara Marli) Sometime in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, fraudulently impersonated one Clara Mali, an American woman on
your Instagram account with intent to obtain and thereby committed an
offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (ii) of the Cyber Crime (Prohibition,
Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, and punishable under section 22 (2) (b) (iv)
of the Act"
The charge against Ovesuor reads: "That you, Jason Ovesuor Sometime in
2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently
impersonated one Lexx Andy, an American Citizen in your Facebook account
and WhatsApp with a foreign number +1(587)605-5091 with intent to gain
advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to
Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cyber Crime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.)
Act,2015, and 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 counsel K. W . Chukwuma-Eneh and
C. M. Asuzu prayed the courts to convict and sentence the defendants
as charged.
Justice Pam convicted and sentenced Sunday to one year imprisonment
with One Hundred Thousand Naira as option of fine.
In the same vein, Justice Ajoku convicted and sentenced Ovesuor to
three years in prison with Two Hundred Thousand Naira as option of
fine.
The Judges also ordered that one iPhone 7 and Infinix S4 phones belonging
to the convicts be forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It shall
be sold via public auction by the EFCC and the proceeds deposited into
the EFCC Recovery Account domiciled in the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN.
two-internet-fraudsters-bag-jail-terms-in-port-harcourt
**************************************
11 FEB 2023
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 (6)
suspected Internet fraudsters in Makurdi, Benue State.
They were arrested on Friday, February 3, 2023, at their
hideout in Makurdi, Benue State, following intelligence on
their alleged involvement in internet fraud.
The suspects are: Dominic Onea, Daniel Ikwe, Samuel Godwin,
John Sule Godwin, David Onaja Egwe and Oche Patrick.
Items recovered from them include: nine mobile phones (9),
one Laptop, one Zenith ATM Card, one WiFi set and one laptop
charger.
They will be charged to Court as soon as the investigation
is concluded.
efcc-arrests-six-suspected-internet-fraudsters-in-makurdi
***************************************
11 FEB 2023
EFCC ARRAIGNS MACMILLAN NIGERIA PUBLISHERS, TWO OTHERS
FOR ALLEGED $922M FRAUD IN LAGOS
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has arraigned Macmillan Nigeria Publishers
alongside Prof. Adesanya Iyiola Adelekan and Bola Fasasi before
Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting
in Ikeja, Lagos for an alleged $922m fraud.
The defendants were arraigned on Thursday, February 2, 2023
on a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy and obtaining
by false pretence to the tune of $922m (Nine Hundred and
Twenty-two Million United State Dollars).
One of the counts reads: "That you, Macmillan Nigeria Publishers,
Prof. Adesanya lyiola Adelekan and Fasasi Bola, sometime in 2018,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired amongst
yourselves to obtain goods by false pretense, property of BHS Book
Printing SD BHD of Selangor Malaysia and committed an offence of
conspiracy to commit felony to wit: Obtaining goods by false
pretence, contrary to Section 10(1)(2) of the Advanced Fee Fraud
and other Related Offences Act No. 14 of 2006."
Another count reads: "That you, Macmillan Nigeria Publishers,
Prof. Adesanya lyiola Adelekan and Bola Fasasi, sometime in 2018,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, obtained books
for sale worth $226,900.00 USD by false pretence, from BHS Book
Printing SD BHD of Selangor Malaysia under the pretense that you
would sell the books and remit the money from the sales within
two weeks of receiving the bill of lading, which pretence you
knew or ought to know is false and committed the offence of
obtaining goods by false pretence, contrary to Section 1 (1)(
c) and (3) of the Advanced Fee Fraud and other Related Offences
Act No. 14 of 2006."
They pleaded not guilty to the offence.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Ayanfe Ogunsina,
asked the court for a trial date and also prayed that the defendants
be remanded in prison custody.
Justice Dada adjourned the matter to March 31, 2023 and remanded
the defendants in the EFCC custody.
efcc-arraigns-macmillan-nigeria-publishers-two-others-for-alleged-922m-fraud-in-lagos
*********************************************
11 FEB 2023
THREE YAHOO BOYS SENTENCED TO COMMUNITY SERVICE IN ABUJA
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abuja Zonal
Command, today, February 6, 2023, arraigned three fraud suspects:
Victor Joseph, Mohammed Edogi Mohammed and Johnson Nifemi, before
Justice A.I. Akobi of the FCT High Court Gwagwalada Abuja on one
count charge each, bordering on internet fraud.
Joseph allegedly pretended to be a marine engineer named Zhang
Li and obtained N150, 000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira
Only) from one Xiao, a Chinese citizen, while Mohammed also posed
as a Bryan Alex on various social media apps and obtained N1,500,000
(One Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only) from LekinElli,
Williana and Flavio.
Nifemi impersonated one John Alpha, an American engineer and
defrauded one Jane Appado, a United States of America citizen
of $170 (One hundred and seventy US Dollars).
The offences are contrary to Section 321 and punishable under
Section 324 of the Penal Code Act Laws of the Federation of
Nigeria 2004.
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges. Consequently,
Justice Akobi, convicted and sentenced the trio to community
service. Joseph is to clean the court premise for seven days
and pay a fine of N50, 000 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only), while
Nifemi who had restituted $100 (One Hundred Dollars) from the
$170 (One Hundred and Seventy Dollars) he benefited from the
scam, is to cut the grass in the court premises and refund
the balance of $70 (Seventy Dollars) to the Federal Government.
His phone is to be sold and proceeds also paid to the Federal
Government.
Mohammed is to fill up every container in the court with water.
In addition, he is to pay a fine of N200, 000 (Two Hundred Thousand
Naira Only) while his phones are to be sold and proceeds paid into
the account of the Federal Government.
three-yahoo-boys-sentenced-to-community-service-in-abuja
***********************************
11 FEB 2023
YAHOO BOY BAGS 5 YEARS IN KADUNA
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC has secured the conviction
of one Wisdom Nuhu before Justice A.A.Bello of the Kaduna State
High Court on a one count charge of impersonation.
The charge reads, "That you, Wisdom Nuhu Seth 'M' sometime in
December, 2022 in Kaduna within the Judicial Division of this
Honourable Court dishonestly induced one Awais Rafiq Maher, on
Instagram to deliver to you the sum of Twenty Seven Thousand,
Nine Hundred Pakistani Rupees (27,900) and you thereby committed
an offence contrary to Section 306 of the Kaduna State Penal
Code Law, 2017 and punishable under Section 307 of the same Law."
He pleaded guilty to the charge. Consequently, prosecuting counsel,
P.C Onyeneho urged the court to convict the defendant accordingly.
Justice Bello convicted and sentenced the defendant to 5 years
imprisonment or a fine of N 100,000 to be paid to the Kaduna state
Government.
The convict is also to forfeit his iPhone XR with IMEI number
357348091719981 which he used to commit the crime to the Federal
Government. He was ordered to restitute the sum of Twenty Seven
Thousand, Nine Hundred Pakistani Rupees ( 27,900 Rs) in the victim.
yahoo-boy-bags-5years-in-kaduna
***************************************
11 FEB 2023
EFCC RE-ARRAIGNS "ADEHERSELF" FOR ALLEGED FRAUD IN LAGOS
Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, re-arraigned a self-acclaimed
social media influencer, Adedamola Rukayat (a.k.a.Adeherself), before
Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy to obtain money
by false pretence.
The defendant was arrested in June 2020, following intelligence report
received by the Commission on the activities of some suspected internet
fraudsters in the Lekki axis of Lagos State.
She had initially been arraigned on July 6, 2020 before Justice Sherifat
Solebo of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
However, the trial could not be concluded before the retirement of the
trial judge, thereby prompting the re-assignment of the case to Justice
Dada.
One of the counts against reads: "Adewale Adedamola Rukayat, Lasisi
Wasiu Adeleke (still at large) and Sodiq Adeleke (still at large),
between the 17th day of April 2020 and 24th day of May 2020 at Lagos,
within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to
defraud, conspired to obtain the sum of $6,000 (Six Thousand Dollars)
from Joseph Rumoro."
Another count reads: "Adewale Adedamola Rukayat, between 29th of April
2020 and 30th day of April 2020 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court,retained the control of the aggregate sum of
N7,876,000 in your Guaranty Trust Bank Account, which you knew to be
proceeds of various internet and cybercrimes."
She pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.
The prosecuting counsel, S.O. Daji, informed the court that the case
was a “re-assigned one”, and so urged the court to remand the defendant
at the correctional facility, pending the commencement of the trial.
"There will be need for proper bail application by the defence," he
said, arguing further that "we do not know if the sureties that stood
for her earlier are dead or no.”
The defence counsel, K.C. Molade, however, pleaded with the court to
uphold the bail earlier granted by Justice Solebo.
"I assure your lordship that before the close of today, I will rush
to the court to get a copy of the ruling of the bail application,"
he said.
Consequently, Justice Dada temporarily retained the bail granted
to the defendant and temporarily released her to her counsel, pending
the formal filing of a fresh bail application by the defence.
The case has been adjourned till April 18, 19 and 20, 2023.
efcc-re-arraigns-adeherself-for-alleged-fraud-in-lago
****************************************
11 FEB 2023
COURT JAILS STUDENT FOR CYBERCRIME
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction of one Stanley Morrkua,
aka Michael Scales before Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State
High Court on a one count charge bordering on internet fraud.
The count reads, 'that you, Stanley Morrkua, male, on or about
the 31st day of May, 2021 in Kaduna within the jurisdiction of
this Honourable Court, fraudulently impersonated one Major Michael
Scales of the United States of America Army, when you created a
Facebook account with the name Michael Scales and had correspondences
with unsuspecting women, in such assumed character as Major Michael
Scales in order to gain advantage for yourself as a military personnel
of the United States of America which you knew to be false and you
thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 142 (1) of the Penal
Code Law, 2017 of Kaduna State and punishable under same law".
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge. In view of his plea,
the prosecuting counsel, Y.J Matiyak urged the judge to convict
him accordingly. Justice Khobo however convicted and sentenced
the defendant to 5years imprisonment with an option N 150,000
fine. He is also to forfeit to the Federal Government all gadgets
used to perpetrate the crime, including one HP Laptop and an
Infinity S5.
The convict was arrested alongside members of his syndicate by
operatives of the Commission in a sting operation around Jaji,
Kaduna State.
court-jails-student-for-cybercrime
*************************************
10 FEB 2023
ALLEGED $5M FRAUD: COURT RESERVES RULING ON PILOT,
BUSINESSMAN’S NO-CASE SUBMISSION TILL MARCH 23
Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in
Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, January 26, 2023, reserved ruling on
the No-case submission filed by the duo of Victor Uadiale and
Capt. Everest Nnaji, who are facing trial over an alleged $5
million fraud, till March 23, 2023.
The defendants are being prosecuted by the Lagos Zonal Command
of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on an
amended five-count charge bordering on obtaining by false pretence
to the tune of $5 million.
One of the counts reads: "That you, Victor Uadiale (aka Victor
Emeka/Amaka Emeka), Captain Everest Nnaji and Ismail Lawal (now
at large), between 22nd April and 12th day of October 1998, in
Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with
intent to defraud, obtained the aggregate sum of $1,292,000.00
(One Million, Two Hundred and Ninety-two Thousand United States
Dollar) from Tawfeeq A. Al-Omar, a Kuwaiti national, by falsely
representing to him that the said sum represented payment for
Urea Phosphate fertilizer, which you claimed was procured from
National Fertilizer Company of Nigeria (NAFCON), Port Harcourt
and Bonny Light crude oil, which pretext you knew to be false
and committed an offence contrary to Section 1(3) of the Advance
Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, No. 13 of 1995
as amended by Act No. 62 of 1999."
They pleaded "not guilty" to the charge preferred against them,
when they were first arraigned on December 14, 2018.
In the course of the trial, the prosecution had presented six
witnesses, including the victim of the fraud, and also tendered
several documentary evidence to prove the case against them
before closing its case.
However, rather than open their defence, the defendants opted
to file a no-case submission.
At the resumed sitting today, counsel for the first defendant,
N. Amaechi, and counsel for the second defendant, Olanrewaju Obele,
both adopted their final written addresses in a no-case submission
separately filed by the two defendants.
They separately urged the court to hold that no case had been
made against their clients that would warrant them opening a
defence; and so, they should be discharged and acquitted.
The prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, adopted the final
written address of the prosecution, and also urged the court to
call on the defendants to enter their defence.
He said: "The victim of the offence gave evidence before my lord
and narrated his ordeal and everyone on this side was moved almost
to tears for what the man went through."
He also stated that the second defendant did not deny owning the
bank account involved in the alleged fraud.
"I urge my lord that what is before your lordship is enough for
the defendants to be called upon to tell their own side of the
story," he further told the court.
After listening to all the arguments of both parties, Justice
Dada reserved ruling till March 23, 2023.
alleged-5m-fraud-court-reserves-ruling-on-pilot-businessman-s-no-case-submission-till-march-23"
***************************************
7 FEB 2023
SOKOTO COURT SENDS IMPERSONATOR TO PRISON
Justice Maryam Muhammad Sifawa of the Sokoto State High Court,
sitting in Sokoto has convicted and sentenced Isiyaku Umar Yusuf
to one year imprisonment for impersonation.
He was jailed on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 after pleading guilty
to two- count charges bordering on impersonation, forgery and
obtaining money by false pretence.
Count one reads: "That you, Isiyaku Umar Yusuf (Male), sometime
in December 2022 in Sokoto within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court impersonated Hajiya Fatima Jikan-Danuwa on your WhatsApp account
with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an
offence of impersonation contrary to and punishable under Section
144(1) of the Sokoto State Penal Code Law, 2019".
The defendant pleaded guilty to both counts of the charge.
In view of his guilty plea, EFCC counsel, Uduak Kufre Ekpeyong
prayed the court to convict and sentence him accordingly.
Justice Sifawa thereafter convicted and sentenced Yusuf to one
year imprisonment.
The convict's journey to the Correctional Centre began when he
impersonated one Fatima Bature Jikan Dan Uwa, founder and Chief
Executive Officer, of a non-governmental organisation, "Youth Against
Drug Abuse", through a forged WhatsApp page to defraud unsuspecting
members of the public.
Yusuf opened the WhatsApp page in the name of Fatima Bature Jikan
Dan Uwa and her picture, and began soliciting for medical assistance
for a purported cancer patient due for surgery at Federal Medical
Centre, Nguru, Yobe State, and attached his bank account details
for receiving donations without the knowledge and consent of Uwa.
sokoto-court-sends-impersonator-to-prison
****************************************
7 FEB 2023
COURT JAILS INTERNET FRAUDSTER TWO YEARS
IN PORT HARCOURT
Justice P. I. Ajuku of the Federal High Court sitting in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State, Command on Tuesday January 24, 2023
convicted and sentenced an internet fraudster, Ernest Chidubem
to two years imprisonment on a one count charge for impersonation,
contrary to section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition
and Prevention Etc) Act, 2015.
The charge reads: "That you, Ernest Chidubem on or about 1st June,
2022 in Port Harcourt, Rivers within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court, fraudulently represented yourself in your Telegram links on YouTube
as Thomas Alex, and many others, with intent to gain advantage for yourself
and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (2) (b) (i) of the
Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention Etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under
Same Section".
He, however, pleaded "guilty" to the charge when it was read to him.
Prosecution counsel, C. O. Oni thereafter prayed the court to convict
him in view of his plea.
Counsel to the defendant. P. Dikocha asked the court to temper justice
with mercy, adding that the defendant is a first time offender with no
previous criminal record.
Justice Ajoku convicted and sentenced the defendant to two years in the
Correctional Service with Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N300, 000.00)
payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria, as option of fine.
The Judge also ordered that the convict's Samsung Galaxy A305 used in
committing the offence, be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
court-jails-internet-fraudster-two-years-in-port-harcourt
*************************************
7 FEB 2023
SHUN INTERNET FRAUD, EFCC CHARGES STUDENT
The Benin Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Usman Muktar has
charged youths to be good examples in conduct and character,
and shun economic and financial crimes.
This charge was given today, January 24, 2023, during an
enlightenment campaign on the ills of economic and financial
crimes at Saint Mary Dedication British International School,
Benin City.
The Commander who was represented by ACE Williams Oseghale,
Head, Public Affairs Department, warned the students not to
be lured into internet fraud as it was capable of truncating
their dreams of a good life. "Internet fraud is evil and it
can mess up your life completely. So say no to it," he said.
He charged them to be disciplined and hardworking in order
to achieve their dreams in life and to use the internet
responsibly to enhance their learning.
He said the Commission will continue to arrest and prosecute
internet fraudsters for their criminal activities which portrays
the country in a bad light in the comity of nations.
The principal of the school, John Lucas who lamented the multiplier
effect of corruption in the society commended the Commission for the
enlightenment campaign. "This is something we need in this country,
to enlighten the young minds on the problems of internet fraud.
Corruption is a huge problem in our society. So enlightenment like
his will go a long way in moulding the next generation of leaders
so that we can have a better society," he said.
shun-internet-fraud-efcc-charges-student
****************************************
3 FEB 2023
INTERNET FRAUD: COURT CONVICTS DIPLOMA HOLDER FOR POSSESSION
OF FRAUDULENT DOCUMENTS IN LAGOS
Justice R.A.Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja,
Lagos, on Monday, January 23, 2023, sentenced one Francis Nduka to
two years imprisonment for possession of a document containing
false pretence.
Nduka, a National Diploma, ND, holder from Auchi Polytechnic, was
arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, on an amended two-count charge bordering
on possession of a document containing false pretence, an offence
contrary to Section 318 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011.
Count one reads: "Francis Chikodi Nduka, on or about the month of
April 2020, in Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial Division, had in
your possession a document containing a false pretence, specifically
a document titled, "Google Account" printed from your email account
richieratz1961@gmail.com, wherein you falsely pretended to be a man
named Richard Ratz, which representation you knew to be false."
Count two reads: "Francis Chikodi Nduka, on or about the month of
April 2020, in Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial Division, had in y
our possession a document containing a false pretence, specifically,
a document titled, "THE BAR REGISTER OF PREEMINENT LAWYERS CERTIFIES
THAT THE LAW FIRM OF BARRISTER RICHARD RATZ" printed from your email
account richieratz1961@gmail.com, wherein you falsely pretended to
be a lawyer named Richard Ratz, which representation you knew to be
false." He pleaded "guilty" to the charges preferred against him.
Following his guilty plea, the prosecuting counsel, O. Adewunmi,
gave a review of the facts to prove the case against the defendant.
Adewunmi told the court that the defendant was among the suspected
internet fraudsters arrested by operatives of the EFCC at the Iju-
Ishaga area of Lagos State in April 2022, following actionable
intelligence on the activities of internet fraudsters in the area.
Adopting the facts of the case, Adewunmi said: "Sometime in April,
last year, the EFCC received an intelligence report, which intimated
that a group of individuals in the Iju area of Lagos State were
carrying out fraudulent acts online." According to her, following
the intelligence report, the EFCC operatives carried out covert
surveillance and later a raid on the area on April 27, 2022, during
which some internet fraudsters were arrested, including the defendant.
Following his arrest, a black iPhone 7+, a grey Lenovo laptop and
a silver Lexus ES350 2011 model Salon car were recovered from him.
Forensic analysis of his devices unravelled fraudulent documents,
which indicated that he paraded himself online as an American lawyer
by the name Richard Ratz to engage in inheritance scam, and also as
a physiotherapist to defraud unsuspecting victims through romance scam.
Upon his arrest and interrogation, he was confronted with the
fraudulent documents obtained from his devices, which he admitted
emanated from him.
He also admitted to benefitting the sum of $3,700.
The prosecution then tendered in evidence the confessional statements
of the defendant, a bundle of fraudulent documents printed out from
his devices as well as a copy of the EFCC exhibit form.
They were all admitted in evidence against the defendant, as there
was no objection from the defence counsel, A.O. Adam.
In view of this, the prosecution urged the court to convict the
defendant as charged and to also order the forfeiture of the items
recovered from him to the Federal Government.
Justice Oshodi found him guilty as charged.
The defendant, who was given an opportunity to address the court,
pleaded for mercy.
Justice Oshodi sentenced him to one year imprisonment on each count.
The sentences are to run concurrently.
He was, however, given an option of N5million fine.
Items recovered from him were also ordered forfeited to the Federal
Government of Nigeria.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
internet-fraud-court-convicts-diploma-holder-for-possession-of-fraudulent-documents-in-lagos
*******************************************
20 JAN 2023
COURT SENDS INTERNET FRAUDSTER TO JAIL IN UYO
Justice M. A. Onyetenu of the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo,
Akwa Ibom State on Wednesday, January 18, 2022 convicted and
sentenced Paul Godknows John to three years imprisonment for
internet fraud.
John was arraigned by the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on two-count charges
bordering on fraudulent impersonation and obtaining by false
pretences.
One of the counts reads, "That you, Paul Godknows John "M" sometime
in 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent
to defraud, did fraudulently obtain the sum of $150 from one Nikki
Webledon, a US citizen by pretending to be Calvin Richardson on
Telegram 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."
He pleaded “guilty” to the two counts and in view of his plea,
counsel to the EFCC, Enobong Ubokudom, reviewed the facts of the
case and tendered the convict’s confessional statements and
fraudulent documents printed from his phone, which were admitted
in evidence and marked as exhibit A to C, respectively. Ubokudom
thereafter prayed the court to convict John as charged.
Defence counsel, Cyprian Afahanam however asked the court to temper j
ustice with mercy as he client has become remorseful.
Justice Onyetenu sentenced John to twelve months imprisonment on
count one and twenty-four months imprisonment on count two. The
sentences run concurrently. The court further ordered that his
iPhone 12 Pro used in committing the crime, be forfeited to the
Federal Government.
John's journey to jail started on November 16, 2022 when he was
arrested by operatives of the Commission, following intelligence
received concerning his fraudulent online activities. The convict
specialized in using fictitious Telegram accounts to defraud
unsuspecting victims.
court-sends-internet-fraudster-to-jail-in-uyo
**************************************************
18 JAN 2023
EFCC ARRESTS EX-CONVICT, 11 OTHERS FOR INTERNET FRAUD IN BENIN
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Benin Zonal Command on Thursday, January 12, 2023 arrested 12 (twelve)
suspected internet fraudsters in Benin- City, Edo State.
Among those arrested is Okunrobo Smart who was convicted in 2022
for internet fraud. Others are Edobor Francis Tobilola, Peace Omo
Bartholomew, Justice Osagie Beggedo, Samuel Okosun, Uche Divine,
Christopher Lawani Iwinosa, Osayi Gregory, Anthony Irabor, Olaleye
Favour, Osagie Hope Godstime, and Desmond Ehator Osorumwense.
They were arrested at their hideout in Benin City, following
actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from the suspects at the point of arrest include
mobile phones, laptops and a Mercedes Benz C300.
The suspects will be arraigned in court soon.
Meanwhile, Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of Edo State High Court, Benin
City on Wednesday January 18, 2023 convicted and sentenced two internet
fraudsters to six years imprisonment for fraud.
The duo - Osemudiamen Aganjile and Ekoh Godswill, were arraigned by
the Benin Zonal Command of the Commission on separate one count charge
of personation and intent to defraud.
The charge against Aganjile reads:
That you OSEMUDIAMEN AGANJILE (M) sometime between 2021 to 1st September,
2022 in Benin City, Edo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable
Court did with intent to defraud represent yourself to be LUCAS SCOTT
from United State of America 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 Godswill reads:
That you EKOH GODSWILL (M) sometime 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 MARTHA FX, 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 defendants pleaded guilty to their respective
charges.
In view of their pleas, prosecution counsel, I.K. Agwa prayed the court
to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, the defence counsel,
S.A.Aichienede pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as
the defendants were first-time offenders who have become remorseful for t
heir actions.
Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced the duo to three years
imprisonment each with an option of N200, 000 ( Two Hundred Thousand
Naira) fine.
The convicts are to forfeit their phones and the balance of Three
Million, Six Hundred and Seventy Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and
Eighty Six (N3,677,986) found in Aganjile's UBA and First Bank account;
and the sum of N767,677 ( Seven Hundred and Sixty Seven Thousand, Six
Hundred and Seventy Seven Naira) in Godswill's Sterling Bank account,
being proceeds of crime to the Federal government of Nigeria through
the EFCC.
The defendants are to undertake in writing to be of good behaviour
henceforth.
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. They were charged to court and convicted.
The press release includes photos:
efcc-arrests-ex-convict-11-others-for-internet-fraud-in-benin
*****************************************
18 JAN 2023
EFCC READY, COMPLIANT WITH WAPIS PROGRAM- BAWA
Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,
EFCC, Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, has expressed the readiness and compliance
of the Commission with the requirements of the West Africa Police
Information System, WAPIS, Programme.
He made this disclosure on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 while receiving
a delegation of the International Criminal Police Organisation, INTERPOL,
led by its Executive Director, Police Services, Stephen Kavangh, at the
Corporate Headquarters of the Commission.
Bawa commended the concept of WAPIS, stressing that information exchange
and coordination among West -African law enforcement agencies is a veritable
mechanism of achieving openness and transparency in the investigation and
prosecution of criminal matters.
"Naming and shaming are important in checking criminal tendencies. Every
record and data imputed into WAPIS Platform are good for the whole world.
At the EFCC, the 2220 convictions secured in 2021 are already uploaded
on the platform, though the data are still Stand Alone Upload, due to
the logistics of connecting the WAPIS server. Between now and June 2023,
all data regarding investigation, prosecution and conviction of suspects
and convicts since 2004 will be uploaded", he said.
Continuing, Bawa explained that Nigeria is leading the way in law enforcement,
through its agencies, especially the EFCC. Already, “we have submitted the
3785 convictions secured by the Commission in 2022 to the WAPIS Desk Officer
in EFCC. This shows our commitment to the program," he said.
Earlier, Kavangh explained the basis for the WAPIS Program and expectations
from all law enforcement agencies across the West-African sub-region. "Our
ambition is to make sure Nigeria is strong. With 16 countries coming together
in West Africa sharing intelligence and critical information, law enforcement
will be strengthened," he said. He commended the EFCC for its clear commitment
and determination in the pursuit of its mandate.
Kavangh was accompanied on the visit by a large entourage, including Head
of INTERPOL, National Centre Bureau(NCB) in Nigeria, Assistant Inspector
General of Police, AIG Umar Garba.
The press release contains a photo:
efcc-ready-compliant-with-wapis-program-bawa
************************************
17 JAN 2023
UYO COURT JAILS BEAUTICIAN FOR INTERNET FRAUD
Justice M.A Onyetenu of the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa
Ibom State, has jailed a beautician, Williams Kingsley, over internet
fraud.
Kingsley was arraigned by the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on a lone-count charge bordering
on possession of fraudulent documents.
The lone-count charge reads: "That you, Kingsley Williams "M" sometimes
in 2022, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did possess
documents containing false pretences 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".
He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, counsel to the EFCC, Enobong Ubokudom, reviewed
the facts of the case and tendered the confessional statements of the
defendant, his laptop and fraudulent documents, which were all admitted
in evidence and marked as exhibit A , B, C & D. Ubokudom thereafter
urged the court to convict Kingsley as charged.
Defence counsel, Francis Ezike prayed the court to tamper justice with
mercy and give his client, “a first-time offender”, a lesser sentence.
Justice Onyetenu sentenced him to four months imprisonment without an
option of fine. The sentence runs from the date of arrest. The court
further ordered that the laptop, used in committing the crime, be
forfeited to the Federal government.
Kingsley's journey to jail started on November 4, 2022 when he was
arrested by operatives of the Commission, following actionable
intelligence concerning his online criminal activities.
Upon arrest, investigations revealed that the convict specialised
in employment scam. His modus operandi includes luring his victims
with job opportunities which never existed and deceiving them into
paying for fraudulent working tools for the phony jobs.
The press release contains a photo of the 419er:
uyo-court-jails-beautician-for-internet-fraud
********************************************
4 JAN 2023
EFCC SECURES 3785 CONVICTIONS IN 2022
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, secured
a total of 3785 (Three Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty-five)
convictions across all its Commands in 2022. The figure, which
emerged from a review of the Commission’s performance in the
outgone year, shows a 70.5% improvement over its record for
2021(2220). It also represents a 98.93% success rate in
prosecution given that the Commission lost only 41 cases,
representing 1.07% within the period.
As it was in 2021, the Lagos Command of the Agency recorded the most
convictions-765, closely followed by the Ibadan Command with 573
convictions and the Port Harcourt Zonal Command- 567, while the
headquarters recorded 314 convictions.
The conviction secured by the Commission in 2022 is the highest
by the EFCC Since inception, and sustains an upward trajectory
which began shortly after the emergence of the administration
of President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Buhari administration was elected in 2015 on a tripod of
promises- anti-corruption, economic recovery and security. In
2015, EFCC recorded a total of 103 convictions. This shot to
195 convictions in 2016, the first full year in office of the
Buhari administration. The figure improved to 312 in 2018,
1280 in 2019, dropped slightly to 976 conviction in 2020, the
year of covid-19, then moved up to 2220 in 2021.
The percentile improvement of the EFCC convictions in the seven
years of the Buhari administration from 103 to 3785, is over 3574.8%.
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.
The press release includes a graphic:
efcc-secures-3785-convictions-in-2022
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