EFCC arrests 46 Internet fraudsters in Warri, one jailed in Enugu

Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 46 suspected Internet fraudsters at various locations in Warri, Delta State.

They were arrested following intelligence on their alleged involvement in Internet-related fraud.
The spokesperson for the anti-graft agency, Dele Oyewale, said 13 exotic cars, laptops and phones were recovered from the suspects.

He noted that the suspects will be charged as soon as investigations are concluded.

Also, Justice Mohammed Garba Umar of the Federal High Court, Enugu, convicted and jailed one Okwudili Joseph for fraud.

He was prosecuted on a one-count charge bordering on impersonation and cybercrime by the Enugu Zonal Directorate of the agency.

The charge reads: “That you, Okwudili Joseph, on or about June 5, 2024, in Enugu, Enugu State, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, fraudulently impersonated one Jim Warren, a gas detection specialist from the United States of America with intent to gain advantage for yourself and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22 (3) (a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and punishable under Section 22 (4) of the same Act.”

He pleaded guilty when the charge was read to him, after which the prosecuting counsel, Mohammed Shehu, reviewed the facts of the case and prayed that the court would convict and sentence him accordingly.

Responding, the defence counsel, G. C. Ugwele, prayed the court to temper justice with mercy, arguing that her client had become remorseful and had learnt his lesson.

After listening to both sides, Justice Umar convicted and sentenced Joseph to two years imprisonment with hard labour or a fine of N200,000.