Internet Fraud: Lagos Court Sentences International Cybercriminal’s Accomplice to 16 Years in Prison

Justice I.O. Ijelu of the Special Offences Court, located in Ikeja, Lagos, has handed down a 16-year prison sentence to Anana Keneth Emeka for his involvement in computer-related fraud.

Emeka, who resided at 567, Road 21, Mayfair Garden Estate, Awoyaya, Lagos State, was found guilty after investigations into the criminal activities of Osondu Victor Igwilo, a leader of the infamous criminal network known as “catcher.” Igwilo had been on the watch list of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) since 2018, until his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on March 11, 2022.

Anana Keneth Emeka was initially arraigned on three counts on June 7, 2022, and subsequently re-arraigned on December 28, 2022, facing eight-count amended charges that included possession of fraudulent documents, forgery, giving false information, and impersonation. Among these charges were:

Count one: “In 2022, in Lagos, with the intent to defraud, Emeka was found in possession of fraudulent documents titled ‘THE PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY’ in the name of ‘HANY A.O. SALMAN HALIMA,’ which he knew or should have known to be fraudulent.”

Count two: “In 2022, in Lagos, Emeka was found in possession of fraudulent documents where he falsely represented himself as ‘Christopher Dods Named’ to unsuspecting members of the public, which he knew or should have known was fraudulent.”

Count three: “In 2018, in Lagos, Emeka knowingly forged a document titled ‘FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA NATIONAL DRIVERS LICENCE’ with L/N APP40679AA79 issued in the name of EMEKA NWAGU, which he purported to have been issued by the Federal Road Safety Commission.”

Emeka initially pleaded “not guilty” to the charges brought against him.

During the trial, the prosecution presented witnesses, including an FBI representative, EFCC investigation officers, and an EFCC forensic expert who analyzed the defendant’s mobile device. Several documents were also submitted as evidence against Emeka. However, during the presentation of the defendant’s extra-judicial statement, the defense counsel, C. Obieze, SAN, raised objections regarding its voluntariness. As a result, the Judge ordered a trial-within-a-trial, and the defendant’s extra-judicial statement was subsequently admitted as evidence.

On October 3, 2023, Justice Ijelu delivered the verdict, affirming that the prosecution had proven all eight counts beyond a reasonable doubt, declaring Emeka guilty on all charges. Consequently, Emeka was sentenced to two years on counts one to three each, with an option of a fine of N250,000; two years on count four, with an option of a fine of N300,000; two years on count five, with an option of a fine of N250,000; two years on count six, with an option of a fine of N250,000; and two years on counts seven and eight each, with an option of a fine of N300,000.

Emeka has been given 30 days to pay the fines; failure to do so will result in serving the prison terms.

Additionally, the Judge ordered the forfeiture of items and property recovered from Emeka, including a Samsung Galaxy mobile device and the house located at 567, Road 21, Mayfair Garden Estate, Awoyaya, Lagos. These assets will be handed over to the Federal Government of Nigeria on behalf of Emeka’s victims.

This verdict sends a strong message against cybercriminal activities and fraudulent practices, emphasizing that the law will not tolerate individuals involved in such activities. The EFCC, working in conjunction with international agencies like the FBI, continues its efforts to combat cybercrime and bring offenders to justice. The conviction of Anana Keneth Emeka highlights the substantial consequences awaiting those who engage in computer-related fraud, and it serves as a significant deterrent to potential offenders.

In conclusion, the Lagos court’s decision to sentence Emeka to 16 years in prison for his involvement in a criminal network linked to international cybercrime reflects the commitment of Nigerian authorities to combat online fraud and protect the interests of the victims. This case exemplifies the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in addressing cybercrime on a global scale, reaffirming the message that cybercriminals will be held accountable for their actions and face the consequences of their illegal activities.