BURSTED: 19 Internet Fraudsters Convicted and Sentenced in Benin: High-Profile Court Verdict Shakes Online Crime Community

19 Internet Fraudsters Convicted and Sentenced in Benin: High-Profile Court Verdict Shakes Online Crime Community

In a groundbreaking development, the Edo State High Court in Benin City delivered a decisive blow against cybercrime on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. Justices Efe Ikponmwonba and M. Itsueli presided over the trial that resulted in the conviction and sentencing of 19 individuals involved in internet fraud. This landmark verdict sends a clear message to the online crime community and highlights the unwavering commitment of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to combating fraudulent activities. The convicted individuals, who now face prison terms and significant penalties, were found guilty of various charges including the retention of proceeds of crime, fraudulent representation, and unlawful possession of fraudulent documents.

The Background of the Case:

The convicted individuals, identified as Fidelis Esajini, Nicholas Azeke, Marvelous Alakpa, Adelike Ifeakachukwu Destiny, Osamwingie Osarenwinda, Mathias Friday Gbenga, Collins Etiosa Iyekeoretin, Anyanwu Miracle, Justice Aifo, and Emmanuel Efetobor, were all arraigned separately on one-count charges. The charges were brought against them by the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC and encompassed offences such as retaining the proceeds of crime, fraudulent representation, and unlawful possession of fraudulent documents.

Convictions and Sentencing:

When presented with the charges, all 19 defendants pleaded guilty, prompting the prosecution counsel, F.A. Jirbo, I.M. Elodi, Saliu Ahmed, A.A. Ibrahim, and A.S. Balariba, to request the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, the counsel representing the defendants urged the court to consider leniency, emphasizing that the individuals were first-time offenders who had expressed remorse and demonstrated a commitment to change.

In a meticulously fair and just assessment of the case, Justice Efe Ikponmwonba proceeded to convict and sentence the defendants. Esajini, Destiny, Osarenwinda, Gbenga, Iyekeoretin, Nowamagbe, Ewomaoghene, and Okoliko received three-year prison sentences with the option to pay a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira. Azeke, Miracle, Aifo, Efetobor, Uwoghiren, and Osifo were each sentenced to three years in prison or a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira. Alakpa was handed a three-year prison term or a fine of Three Hundred Thousand Naira. Taiwo, on the other hand, received a two-year prison sentence or a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.

Forfeiture of Assets:

Recognizing the magnitude of the crimes committed, the court also made a significant ruling regarding the defendants’ assets. Justice Efe Ikponmwonba ordered the forfeiture of six vehicles, including a Lexus ES350, a Black Mercedes ML350, a Mercedes Benz C-30 model, a Mercedes Benz ML 350, a Lexus NX, and a Toyota Corolla. In addition to the vehicles, the court also ordered the seizure of iPads, laptops, phones, and the remaining funds in the defendants’ bank accounts. These assets will be transferred to the Federal Government of Nigeria through the EFCC.

Implications and Deterrence:

The conviction and sentencing of these 19 fraudsters in Benin have significant implications for the online crime landscape in Nigeria and beyond. This high-profile court verdict serves as a powerful deterrent to individuals engaging in fraudulent activities, showcasing the determination of law enforcement agencies to bring offenders to justice. It also reinforces the commitment of the EFCC to combating cybercrime, protecting innocent individuals, and safeguarding the integrity of financial systems.

The recent conviction and sentencing of 19  fraudsters by the Edo State High Court in Benin City mark a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against cybercrime. The guilty verdicts and subsequent prison sentences send a resounding message to the online crime community, emphasizing that illegal activities will not go unpunished. By demonstrating their unwavering dedication to combating fraudulent activities, the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC has taken a crucial step in securing a safer online environment for all. This landmark court decision not only serves justice but also sets a precedent that will deter potential offenders and protect innocent individuals from falling victim to internet fraud.

Reat tweet:

Court Sends 19 Internet Fraudsters to Prison in Benin

Justices Efe Ikponmwonba and M. Itsueli of Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, convicted and sentenced 19 Internet fraudsters to prison for fraud.

The convicts are Fidelis Esajini,… pic.twitter.com/vp5c4DPVxp

— EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) June 7, 2023

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