The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Uyo Zonal Command has ensured the conviction of 17 Internet fraudsters before a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
A statement disclosed by the Head, Media, and Publicity of the Commission, Wilson Uwujaren, on Monday, said the convicts were among 33 suspected internet fraudsters arrested in a sting operation at different locations in Calabar on Thursday, September 9, 2021.
The suspects were identified as Valentine Moses Ukong, Ebuka Kelvin Uzokwe, Onedo Elohor Caleb, Godson Lekia Tophie, Achilonu Moses Chidiebere, Monshe Oloko Pius, Samuel Egu Ezeh, Akobo Joseph Chikone, Morayor Jerry Shina, and Obioma Joel.
Others include Modey Terrence Akong, Abang Godswill Iyurinyi, Emmanuel Chika, Prosper Okpubeku, Obikwelu Bright Ugochukwu, Enajemo Oghenekaro and Effiong Akaninyene Essien.
The ruling, which was pronounced by Justice Stephen Daylop Pam of the Federal High Court, convicted each of the suspects, who pled guilty to separate one count of charges.
The charges bordered on criminal impersonation and identity theft with intent to obtain property and gain advantage contrary to the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act 2015.
However, all the defendants with the exception of Godson Tohie and Achilonus Chidiebere bagged six months imprisonment with various options of fine, ranging from N50,000 to N10,000.
