EFCC has intensified its fight against cybercrime in southern Nigeria with the successful conviction of 17 internet fraudsters in Benin, the capital of Edo State. The conviction underscores the agency’s unwavering commitment to eradicating cyber-enabled criminal activities that have plagued the nation’s digital economy and tarnished its global reputation.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), through its Benin Zonal Command, spearheaded the operation which led to the prosecution of these individuals. This development aligns with the commission’s broader strategic initiative to sanitize the cyberspace and hold perpetrators accountable through diligent investigations and swift judicial processes.
EFCC Names Convicted Fraudsters and Reveals Court Proceedings
EFCC began the legal process by arraigning the convicted individuals before Justices Efe Ikponmwonba and M.S. Shuaibu of the Edo State High Court and Federal High Court, respectively. The fraudsters include Kelvin Sunday, Faith Oyakhilome, Joel Obasuyi, Daniel Ikhialose, and others, all of whom were found guilty of offences bordering on impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.
According to EFCC’s official statement, the convicts pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them. Consequently, the presiding judges convicted and sentenced them to various jail terms ranging from two months to one year. The swift rulings reflected the strength of the evidence presented by the prosecution and the cooperation of the accused persons.
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Details Items Recovered from the Convicted
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission disclosed that several incriminating items were recovered during the arrests and used as exhibits in court. These include high-end smartphones, laptops, luxury vehicles, and other digital tools used in perpetrating the online scams. In some cases, funds traced to victims were also recovered from the convicts’ bank accounts.
The commission further stated that the forfeiture of these items to the Federal Government was ordered by the court. This move serves as a deterrent to aspiring cybercriminals and reaffirms the EFCC’s zero-tolerance stance on illicit financial operations facilitated through the internet.
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Warns Against Youth Involvement in Internet Fraud
EFCC issued a stern warning to Nigerian youth, especially in Edo State, to desist from engaging in cybercrime. The agency emphasized that its dragnet will continue to expand, targeting both seasoned fraudsters and new entrants lured by the perceived glamour of digital fraud. Education, skills development, and lawful entrepreneurship were encouraged as viable alternatives.
The commission expressed concern over the growing number of young individuals involved in online scams, noting that this trend threatens national development and foreign investment. EFCC pledged to partner with educational institutions, religious organizations, and community leaders to raise awareness and promote digital integrity.
EFCC Strengthens Collaboration with Judiciary for Swift Justice
EFCC acknowledged the role of the judiciary in facilitating prompt and fair trials in cybercrime-related cases. The commission praised the cooperation of the judges and court officials who ensured that justice was served within a reasonable timeframe, thereby enhancing public confidence in Nigeria’s legal system.
This synergy between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the judiciary has led to a significant increase in the conviction rate of cybercriminals. The agency reiterated its resolve to continue strengthening institutional collaborations to improve legal processes and accelerate the delivery of justice in economic and financial crimes.
EFCC Calls for Public Support in the Fight Against Cybercrime
EFCC appealed to the general public to support its ongoing campaign against internet fraud by providing timely and credible information on suspicious digital activities. The commission highlighted the importance of community vigilance and whistleblowing as vital tools in combating cybercrime effectively.
The agency also urged stakeholders in the financial technology and telecommunications sectors to tighten compliance protocols and report anomalies. By working collectively, the EFCC believes that Nigeria can create a safer, more transparent digital environment that fosters economic growth and international trust.
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