The Benin Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday July 22, 2021 secured the conviction of two fraudsters before Justice (Prof) C. A. Obiozor of the Federal High Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State.
The defendants, Ovuakporie Lucky Ejiro and Oshorun Joseph, were arraigned on one count charge each for offences bordering on impersonation and obtaining by false pretence, contrary to Section 22(2)b(II) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention, etc) Act 2015 and punishable under Section (22)(2)(b)(iv) of the same Act.
The charge against Joseph read: “That you Oshorun Joseph (m) between January and April 2021 at Owo, Ondo State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did fraudulently impersonate the identity of Mike Glove, an American, by sending his picture, claiming to be an American soldier, to Diana, an American lady through the internet, which pictures and identity you claim to be your own with intent to obtain money from her and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2)b(II) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention, etc) Act 2015 and punishable under Section (22)(2)(b)(iv) of the same Act.”
The defendants pleaded guilty to the charges when they were read to them.
In view of their pleas, the prosecution counsel, I. M. Elody prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendants accordingly. However, the defence counsel, J. Aigbodion prayed the court to temper justice with mercy and honour the plea bargain agreement between the parties.
Justice (Prof) Obiozor convicted and sentenced Ejiro to three years imprisonment or a fine of N500,000, while Joseph was sentenced to two years imprisonment or a fine of N200,000.
The court also ordered that Ejiro should forfeit a Honda Crosstour and a Samsung phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
