EFCC Apprehends 11 Alleged Internet Fraudsters, Arraigns Two Others In Ibadan, Enugu

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), on Friday, arrested eleven suspected internet fraudsters.

BIGPENNGR.COM understands the suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Commission who, acting on intelligence, swooped on their hideouts in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

EFCC’s Wilson Uwujaren, Head, Media & Publicity of the commission who confirmed the development in a statement, said that they recovered twelve cars which include three Toyota Highlander SUVs, one Mercedes Benz GLK 350 SUV, One Acura SUV, two Honda Crosstour, two Toyota Venza and three other Toyota brands. Also recovered are phones, laptops and other devices.

The suspects, who variously claimed to be students, artisans, farmers and businessmen, are currently undergoing interrogation to ascertain their level of involvement in the alleged crime, he said.

He added that the suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

Meanwhile, two students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Akwa, have been arraigned on separate one count charge of cybercrime before Justice N.I Buba of the Federal High Court, sitting in Enugu, Enugu State..

The defendants who were identified as Genesis Arinze Daniel and Chinedu Ayogu Christopher were docked on Thursday January 21.

They pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against them by the Enugu Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Uwujaren said in a statement on Friday.

The duo were arrested based on intelligence on their alleged involvement in cybercrimes activities and obtaining money by false pretenses from the unsuspecting victims, mostly foreigners.

Investigation by the EFCC revealed how Genesis created and operated Google and Instagram accounts using stolen identity of Thomas Bradley, a United Kingdom national based in Florida, USA, to defraud other foreigners.

He also created Gmail account; tombradley689@gmail.com which he used to intercept emails messages and chats. Genesis and Ayogu also engage in fraudulent online Forex Trading Company.  Aside from acting ‘pickers’ for syndicate of fraudsters.

In view of the plea of the defendants, the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Ajobiewe asked for a trial date while counsel to the 1st and 2nd defendants; I.U Okenwa moved motions for the bail of their clients which was not opposed by the prosecution.

Justice Buba, after listening to both counsel admitted the defendants to bail in the sum of One Million (N1,000,000.00) each, and one surety each in like sum.

The Court adjourned the matter till February 2, 2021 for commencement of trial.