In a landmark ruling, the Kaduna High Court has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to confiscate and sell a Toyota Camry 2006 model, Mercedes-Benz GLK 2010 model, and two iPhones – XR and Pro Max – belonging to internet fraudsters operating in the region. The convicted individuals, Godwin Pascal and Carlos Nathan, were found guilty of perpetrating online scams.
The presiding judge, Justice Dairus Khobo, not only handed down a two-year prison sentence to Pascal and Nathan but also imposed a fine of N100,000 each. The EFCC counsel, P. C. Onyeneho, revealed to the court that the fraudsters were part of a syndicate operating in Barnawa and its environs in Kaduna. They had masqueraded as a female from the U.S., namely Katie Geoffrey, and established a fraudulent relationship with one Jimmy Michael.
During the trial, the EFCC presented compelling evidence, including the aforementioned luxury vehicles, iPhones, the defendants’ statements, consent to search devices form, certificate of compliance, and incriminating scam documents obtained from the defendants’ Instagram account. Pursuant to this evidence and witness testimonies, the prosecution invoked sections 1 (1) and 319 of the Penal Code to press for the conviction and sentencing of the defendants.
The defendants’ counsel, B. J. Francis, offered no resistance to the prosecution’s stance but appealed to the court for leniency in sentencing. Ultimately, Justice Khobo’s verdict not only signifies a triumph for the EFCC in its ongoing fight against cybercrime but also serves as a stern warning to individuals engaging in fraudulent activities.
This significant ruling showcases the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian judiciary and law enforcement agencies in combating internet fraud, thereby bolstering the nation’s efforts to curb cybercriminal activities.
