The Edo State High Courts in Benin City have convicted 29 individuals for internet fraud, sentencing them to varying jail terms or fines. Justices A.N. Erhabor and W.I. Aziegbemhin delivered the judgments on Thursday, following charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The convicts, identified as Edeyibo Rukewe Hope, Igbafe David, Emakhu Bonfrey, Genesis Ndujifor, Okolosie Godstime, Chukwu David, Ebuka Emmanuel, Akhere Akahomhen, Odiniru Emeka Vet, Obiora Mike Kelvin, and others, were arrested during a sting operation by the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate. The arrests were based on credible intelligence linking them to fraudulent online activities.
Each defendant faced charges ranging from obtaining money under false pretenses to possession of fraudulent documents. All pleaded guilty when the charges were read in court.
Justice Erhabor sentenced 18 of the convicts to two years in prison or an alternative fine of ₦200,000 each. Justice Aziegbemhin imposed similar sentences on others but increased the fine to ₦400,000 for some offenders.
Additionally, the court ordered the forfeiture of assets linked to the crimes. This included a red Mercedes Benz C300 with registration number BEN258CM and other items such as mobile phones, computers, and cash. The convicts were also required to sign undertakings to exhibit good behavior moving forward.
EFCC’s Ongoing Fight Against Cybercrime
This case highlights the EFCC’s relentless efforts to combat internet fraud in Nigeria. The agency has consistently warned about the growing sophistication of cybercriminals and their involvement in other crimes such as ritual killings and armed violence.
The crackdown comes amid rising concerns over cybercrime’s impact on Nigeria’s reputation and economy. Earlier this year, the EFCC mourned the loss of one of its officers, Aminu Sahabi Harisu, who was killed while pursuing a suspected internet fraudster.
This serves as a stern warning to those engaging in fraudulent activities and reinforces the government’s commitment to upholding justice and safeguarding citizens from cybercrime threats.
