The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured the conviction and sentencing of 25 internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State. The convicts were sentenced by Justices W.L. Aziegbemhin and A.N. Erhabor of the Edo State High Court. Twenty convicts, including Tremendous Irosaike Eraze, Etinosa Newman, and Benjamin Evbayemwenru, were sentenced to 2 years imprisonment or a fine of N200,000 each by Justice Erhabor.
Salisu Lucky Nurudeen was sentenced to one week of community service around the court premises. Justice Aziegbemhin sentenced Justice Osakpolor Amadin to 3 years imprisonment or a fine of N500,000, while Iboi Joshua and Edward Peter Osagie were sentenced to 2 years imprisonment each or a fine of N400,000.
The convicts were prosecuted on separate one-count charges bordering on obtaining by false pretense, advance fee fraud, retention of proceeds of crime, and possession of fraudulent documents. All convicts pleaded guilty, prompting the prosecution counsel to pray for conviction and sentencing.
In addition to their sentences, all convicts forfeited their phones, computers, and money found in their respective bank accounts to the federal government. They also undertook in writing to be of good behavior henceforth. This case highlights the EFCC’s efforts to combat internet fraud and its commitment to prosecuting those involved in such activities.
The EFCC’s success in securing these convictions demonstrates its effectiveness in addressing financial crimes and its dedication to upholding the law. The agency’s continued efforts to combat internet fraud and other financial crimes are crucial to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s financial systems.
