(EFCC) has secured the conviction of seven internet fraudsters

The Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of seven internet fraudsters before Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court in Calabar, Cross River State. The convicts are Victor Ekwonwa, Chukwudi Iwueke, Mbam Alexander, Ugorji Emmanuel, Joseph Ekwere Tom, Eze Daniel, and David Okeke. They were each arraigned on one-count charge of obtaining money under false pretenses and money laundering.

Upon reading the charges, all seven defendants pleaded guilty. Prosecuting counsel, Khamis Mahmud, then requested the court to convict them according to the charges. Justice Ojukwu consequently sentenced each of them to six months in prison. However, they were given the option to pay a fine of ₦1,000,000 (One Million Naira) except for Mbam Alexander, who had the option of a ₦500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. Additionally, Joseph Ekwere Tom and Chiwenikpe Ekwonwa were ordered to restitute $500 and $100 to the EFCC's Recovery Account respectively.

The court also mandated the forfeiture of all gadgets used in the commission of the crimes to the Federal Government. The EFCC's persistent efforts in combating cybercrime in the region have led to these convictions, serving as a deterrent to others involved in such illicit activities.