Nine internet fraudsters convicted by Federal High Court in Anambra

The Federal High Court sitting in Awka has convicted and sentenced nine individuals for internet fraud-related offenses.

The convicts, arrested in Enugu on May 2, 2025, were found guilty of crimes including identity theft and fraudulent impersonation, according to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Justice Evelyn Anyadike presided over the case and handed down sentences ranging from six months to 18 months imprisonment, with options for fines and community service.

Among those convicted are Daniel Okochukwu Okoh, Onwe Chidera Solomon, Hyacinth Chinedu Ani, Malachy Makuochi Adonu, Udeh Collins Chidimma, Ukoro Victor Somto, Ezekiel Valentine Chidubem, Ugwuanyi Kingsley Chinwetalu, and Obi Ezeanyim Eric Ifesinachi.

The EFCC revealed that some defendants impersonated foreign nationals on social media platforms like Instagram and Telegram to defraud unsuspecting victims. For example, Ukoro Victor Somto was charged with impersonating a U.S.-based actress via Telegram, while Daniel Okoh created a fake Instagram profile posing as a Russian living in Australia to deceive a foreign national.

At their arraignment, all defendants pleaded guilty. EFCC counsel Assistant Commander Rotimi Ajobiewe urged the court to convict and sentence them accordingly, while defense lawyers requested mercy, citing remorse from the convicts.

Justice Anyadike sentenced Hyacinth Ani, Ugwuanyi Chinwetalu, and Onwe Solomon to six months imprisonment each with an option of a N50,000 fine. Malachy Adonu received two years imprisonment or a N200,000 fine, and Daniel Okoh was sentenced to six months imprisonment with community service and a fine option. Others received varying sentences and fines based on the counts they faced.

In addition to imprisonment and fines, some convicts were ordered to forfeit electronic devices used in the crimes, including phones and laptops, to the Federal Government.

In a related case, Justice Anyadike remanded Okafor Sunday Chikwado for operating a Bureau De Change without a license and other related charges. His case is set for bail hearing on July 15, 2025.