The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Catherine Ijeoma Ugwu for her alleged involvement in a romance scam. The case, which involves obtaining money by false pretence, criminal misappropriation, and impersonation, totals N6,815,300.
Ugwu was brought before Justice Aisha Kumaliya at the Borno State High Court in Maiduguri, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecution, led by S.O. Saka and Faruku Muhammad, requested that she be remanded in a correctional center until the trial begins on April 8, 2025.
The alleged scam involved Ugwu impersonating the fiancée of Emmanuel Ani, deceiving him into transferring N6.8 million under false pretences. When confronted, Ugwu was unable to account for or return the money, leading to her legal troubles.
This case highlights the EFCC’s commitment to tackling financial crimes and protecting citizens from exploitation. As romance scams continue to pose a threat, law enforcement agencies are stepping up efforts to prosecute offenders and ensure justice for victims.
