In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, the Edo State High Court in Benin City has convicted and sentenced 11 individuals for their involvement in internet fraud. Presiding over the cases, Justice W.I. Aziegbemhin handed down various jail terms to the defendants, who faced charges ranging from obtaining by false pretence to possession of fraudulent documents.
The convicted individuals are: Izomor Samuel Efe, Nosakhare Bright, Emovon Destiny, Vincent Arogbo, Osarentin Morgan Aduwa, Osagiede Destiny Oghosa, Nosakhare Ernest Theophilus, Junior Emmanuel Efe, Osimen Princewill, Obamedo Clinton, and David Iyobor. Each was prosecuted on separate one-count charges by the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Upon reading the charges, all defendants pleaded guilty. The prosecution, led by counsels F.A. Jirbo, I.K. Agwai, and Salihu Ahmed, urged the court to convict and sentence the individuals accordingly. In response, defense counsel requested leniency, citing the defendants’ remorse for their actions.
Justice Aziegbemhin sentenced Izomor Samuel Efe and Nosakhare Bright to two years imprisonment, with an option of a N200,000 fine each. Emovon Destiny and Vincent Arogbo received two-year sentences or a fine of N400,000 each. The remaining defendants were sentenced to three years imprisonment or a fine of N200,000 each. Additionally, all convicts were ordered to forfeit their phones, laptops, and any funds found in their bank accounts to the federal government. They also provided written undertakings to exhibit good behavior henceforth.
The EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate apprehended the convicts following a sting operation, which was initiated based on credible intelligence linking them to fraudulent internet activities. This operation underscores the agency’s commitment to combating cybercrime and serves as a deterrent to others engaged in similar illicit activities.
