Crime

Benin : Court jails 17 online scammers

The EFCC commended the judge for his swift and decisive action in sentencing the online scammers. The commission emphasized the need for stringent measures to combat cybercrime and protect unsuspecting victims.

Published

2 years ago

September 9, 2024

Emmanuel Abiodun

Court jails 18 foreign nationals for cyberterrorism and internet fraud

A Benin City High Court judge, Igho Braimoh, has sentenced 17 individuals to prison for their involvement in online scams.

The convicted scammers, who were arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), were found guilty of possessing counterfeit documents and obtaining information under false pretenses.

Among those sentenced are Odion Alex Idada, Aisosa Aiyeki, Prosper Aimiomwona, Joshua Omoruyi, Iyabosa Omoruyi, Jeffery Omoruyi, Oserei John Vianny, Osaro Moses, Desmond Okoduwa, Obi Isaac, Osemuahu Godspower, Bonny Stephen, Obobor Moses, Timothy Ogie, Victor Osaze, Cherish Omoruyi, and Kelly Omoruyi.

The EFCC charged the defendants with various counts related to their fraudulent activities.

For example, Oserei John Vianny was accused of possessing documents containing false pretenses, violating the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006.

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After pleading guilty to the charges, the defendants were sentenced to varying prison terms and fines.

Some received two years in prison or a fine of N200,000, while others were sentenced to three years or a fine of N200,000.

In addition, Desmond Okoduwa, Isaac, and Aiyeki forfeited their cars and other assets to the federal government.