13 Internet Fraudsters Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison in Edo

A total of 13 individuals involved in Internet fraud have been sentenced to a combined 30 years in prison by an Edo State High Court in Benin City. The convictions, delivered in separate hearings between November 11 and November 14, 2024, followed their involvement in various cybercrime activities such as obtaining money under false pretenses, retaining proceeds of crime, and possessing fraudulent documents.

According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the convicts include Evbayakha Daniel, Goodness Esiuke, Joshua Edobor, Omorodion Bright, Afisi Nurudeen, Oviabor Aisosa Wellington, Evbayekha Desmond, Nosakhare Evbuomwan, Osemwengie Miracle, Osawe Kluvert, Wisdom Adolor, Onyebuchi Goodness, and Promise Omoru.

Charges and Convictions

The EFCC outlined that the accused were prosecuted on separate charges relating to fraud and possession of fraudulent documents. One of the charges, for example, against Evbayakha Daniel, stated that he was found in possession of documents containing false pretenses. This was deemed a violation of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

All the defendants pleaded guilty, leading the prosecution counsel to request their conviction and sentencing. However, the defense attorneys urged the court to show leniency, noting the defendants’ remorse for their actions.

Sentences Imposed

• November 11, 2024: Justice A.N. Erhabor sentenced Evbayakha Daniel, Goodness Esiuke, Joshua Edobor, Omorodion Bright, and Afisi Nurudeen to two years imprisonment or a N200,000 fine each.
• November 13, 2024: Justice Aziegbemhin sentenced Oviabor Aisosa Wellington and Evbayekha Desmond to three years imprisonment or N200,000 fine.
• November 14, 2024: Nosakhare Evbuomwan, Osemwengie Miracle, Osawe Kluvert, and Promise Omoru received two years imprisonment or N200,000 fine, while Wisdom Adolor and Onyebuchi Goodness were sentenced to three years imprisonment or N200,000 fine.

Forfeiture of Assets

The court also ordered the forfeiture of various items seized from the convicts, including phones, laptops, and balances in their bank accounts, which were determined to be proceeds of their crimes. The convicted individuals were further required to sign a written commitment to exhibit good behavior moving forward.

This series of convictions underscores the ongoing crackdown on cybercrime and the EFCC’s efforts to deter fraudulent activities in the country.