The trial of Nigerian singer, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, took a compelling turn on Thursday, November 30, 2023, as the 10th prosecution witness, Dein Whyte, an investigator with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), shed light on the pivotal role played by Visa, a leading card payment platform, in unveiling fraudulent activities related to credit card details found on the singer’s device. Naira Marley faces an 11-count charge, including conspiracy and credit card fraud, as brought forth by the EFCC.
Forensic Analysis Unveils Malicious Programs
During the trial, led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Bilikisu Buhari, Whyte disclosed crucial findings from the forensic analysis of the device confiscated from Naira Marley. The investigation revealed the presence of malicious programs designed to illicitly obtain credit card information, enabling unauthorized card transactions. Additionally, these programs aimed at concealing the true location of an internet user when their devices were connected to the internet. This revelation points to a sophisticated level of cybercrime linked to the defendant.
Tools for Credit Card Verification and Illicit Websites Uncovered From Naira Marley
Further detailing his findings, Whyte highlighted the discovery of tools on Naira Marley’s device used for verifying the validity, active status, and accuracy of credit card credentials. The analysis also exposed the defendant’s browsing history, indicating access to websites where illegal trading of credit card information takes place. This comprehensive examination underscores the multifaceted nature of the alleged cybercrimes attributed to Naira Marley.
Device Ownership Confirmation and Exchange of Credit Card Details
Whyte informed the court that both the phone and laptop recovered from Naira Marley were registered with the singer’s credentials, including his name and email address. The investigator, responding to the prosecution counsel, revealed that the credit card details found on the device did not belong to the defendant and were not issued to him by any financial institution. Shockingly, investigations showed that Naira Marley had exchanged these details with other individuals, raising questions about the extent of his involvement in credit card fraud.
Visa’s Flagging and the Investigation Focus
During cross-examination by the defendant’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, Whyte clarified that a letter of investigation had been sent to Visa, confirming that one of the flagged credit cards had indeed been involved in fraudulent transactions. However, Visa did not directly link the credit card fraud to Naira Marley’s device, emphasizing that their investigation was primarily focused on the card itself rather than the specific device used for fraudulent activities. The distinction between Visa’s role as a payment platform and not a telecommunication company was also emphasized.
Trial Adjournment and Future Proceedings
Justice Nicholas Oweibo adjourned the case to March 6 and 7, 2024, for the continuation of the trial. This delay allows both the prosecution and defense ample time to prepare their arguments and gather additional evidence. As the legal proceedings unfold, the involvement of Visa and the intricate details of the forensic analysis underscore the significance of this trial, shaping up to be a landmark case in the intersection of technology, financial crimes, and celebrity justice.
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