Four Internet Fraudsters Sentenced in Abuja for Cybercrime Offences

In a significant win against cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured the conviction of four internet fraudsters in Abuja on Wednesday, 21st August 2024.

The convictions were handed down by Justice M. Adamu of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, following a series of cyber fraud cases that rocked the city.

The convicted fraudsters, identified as Abdulrashid Umar, Ekemini Godwin, Anozie Emmanuel, and Freedom John, faced charges related to obtaining money by false pretence. All four pleaded guilty to the charges and were sentenced accordingly by the court.

Godwin’s charge stemmed from an elaborate scam in which he impersonated “Ryan Williams,” a fictional American citizen, through a fake Facebook account. By deceiving his victim, Hae-Yun from Pennsylvania, Godwin fraudulently obtained $520. His actions were found to violate Section 321, punishable under Section 324 of the Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation 2004.

Similarly, Emmanuel posed as “Scammerpayback,” a supposed recovery agent, to swindle $300 from Ahabeb Ycehpeab in Kyrgyzstan through a fake Facebook account. His deception also violated Sections 321 and 324 of the Penal Code.

Justice Adamu sentenced Abdulrashid Umar to one year in prison with the option of a ₦300,000 fine. Meanwhile, Godwin, Emmanuel, and John each received two-year prison terms. Godwin was fined ₦800,000, Emmanuel was fined ₦300,000, and John was fined ₦400,000.

In addition to the prison sentences and fines, Justice Adamu ordered that all mobile phones used in the commission of these crimes be forfeited to the Federal Government, signalling the court’s resolve to deter future cybercrime activities.

The journey to justice for these fraudsters began with their arrests during EFCC operations targeting internet-related offences. After thorough investigations, they were brought to court and convicted based on the evidence presented by EFCC prosecutors.

The EFCC has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling cybercrime, encouraging Nigerian youths to avoid such activities and instead contribute positively to society. This case underscores the Commission’s unwavering efforts to hold cybercriminals accountable, ensuring that justice is served for their victims across the globe.

The sentencing of these internet fraudsters highlights the increasing focus of Nigerian law enforcement on tackling cybercrime, a growing issue in the digital age. With technology playing a central role in financial crime, the EFCC has been ramping up its operations to curb online fraud and protect victims both within Nigeria and abroad.

As the fight against cybercrime continues, the EFCC is encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious online activities, assuring Nigerians that justice will be served to those who exploit the internet for illegal gain.

This successful conviction is expected to resonate widely on social media and across news platforms, amplifying the message that Nigeria’s fight against cybercrime is stronger than ever.