By Ndudi Anyim
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Benin Zonal Office, on Tuesday, arrested nine suspected internet fraudsters in an early morning operation, in Benin-City, the Edo State capital.
The suspects, who were arrested following intelligence received by the Commission, were identified as, Okosun Godspower, Imo Harry Hamilton, Efosa Desmond, Odiase Aifuwa, Idoko Onakpa, Dogìo Samson, Okukoje Godstime, Onuigbo Julius and Osamulu Sunday.
The EFCC said laptop computers, mobile phones, a Toyota Camry car and a Luxus Jeep, were all recovered from the suspects.
The Commission stated that the suspects have made useful statements and will be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed.
Similarly, Justice M.L Abubakar of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has convicted and sentenced Clinton Onye to five years imprisonment for illegal dealing in petroleum products.
The Commission said he was arraigned by the Port Harcourt Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on two- count charges bordering on conspiracy to deal in petroleum products, contrary to Section 17(1)(a) of the Miscellaneous Offence Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, and punishable thereunder.
One of the charges read, “That you, Clinton Onye, and one Okoro, (surname unknown and currently at large), on 19th day of November, 2019, at Eleme Alimini Road, Rivers State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, without lawful authority or license to deal in petroleum products , had in your possession, Eight Hundred and Seventy-Five( 875) liters of Automative Gas Oil (AGO) in a Sky-blue Volvo 240 Car, with registration number: Lagos BF 573 EKY and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 17(1)(a) of the Miscellaneous Offence Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and punishable thereunder”.
He pleaded ‘guilty’ to the charges when they were read to him.
Based on his plea, Prosecuting Counsel, S.M.H Ibekwute, prayed the court to sentence him accordingly.
However, Defense Counsel, B. J.O Ekowo, pleaded for leniency, assuring the Court that he had become remorseful.
Delivering judgment Justice Abubakar found Onye guilty and sentenced him to five years imprisonment with an option of fine of N300, 000.
It was learnt that the convict was arrested by the Anti- Bunkering Team of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt and handed over to the EFCC for further investigation and prosecution.