The Edo State High Court in Benin City has convicted 22 individuals for internet fraud. Their arraignment took place between September 5 and 13, 2024. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought these fraudsters before Justice Igho Braimoh.
They faced separate charges related to obtaining money under false pretenses. They were also charged with retention of proceeds from crime and possession of fraudulent documents. All defendants pleaded guilty, leading to a swift prosecution process.
The sentences varied among the convicts. Some received two years of imprisonment or a fine of N200,000. Others were sentenced to three years or the same fine. Notably, the court ordered the forfeiture of two Lexus cars.
These were deemed proceeds of crime. The court also ordered the confiscation of their phones, laptops, and bank account funds. The judge emphasized the need for the convicts to show good behavior moving ahead.
The arrests were made by the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate through a sting operation targeting fraudulent internet activities. The swift legal proceedings show the ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to combat internet fraud. The subsequent convictions hold offenders accountable for their actions.
