$53000 Scam: A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced Ikpaka Courage to two years in prison for impersonating Nigerian singer Flavour and scamming a U.S. citizen out of $53,000.

Court Convicts Ikpaka Courage for $53,000 Scam

On September 4, 2024, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu sentenced Ikpaka Courage to two years of imprisonment for posing as Chinedu Okoli, famously known as Flavour, a prominent Nigerian singer. The scam involved deceiving Yvelte Thompson, a resident of the United States, out of $53,000.

Details of the Crime

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) detailed the case, noting that Courage, a Philosophy graduate, was charged with cybercrimes and money laundering.

The EFCC report indicates that Courage misled Thompson by pretending to be Flavour through his Telegram account, falsely promising a performance in Washington, DC.

The charges against Courage were twofold:

1. False Representation: The first charge stated that in April 2021, Courage falsely claimed to be Flavour on his Telegram account to obtain financial benefits.
2. Unlawful Retention: The second charge involved Courage holding $53,000 in his bank account, knowing it was obtained through fraudulent means.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing: $53000 Scam

Courage admitted guilt to both charges. During the court session, EFCC operative Azibagiri Dan Ekpar testified that Courage confessed to the scam and provided evidence of his fraudulent activities.

Courage had forged documents and created a fake email address to deceive Thompson. He had also used a Bitcoin wallet to collect the funds.

In his defense, Courage’s lawyer, Bayo A. Phillip, argued for leniency, highlighting that Courage had used the scam’s proceeds for educational purposes and was a first-time offender.

Justice Dipeolu sentenced Courage to one year for each count, with an option to pay a fine of N1,000,000 for each charge. The court also ordered the forfeiture of the $53,000 to the victim and mandated that Courage remain in EFCC custody until the forfeiture is completed.

Conclusion: $53000 Scam

Ikpaka Courage’s case underscores the severe consequences of online fraud and impersonation. The court’s decision serves as a reminder of the legal risks involved in cybercrimes.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by news

Oyo Court: The Oyo court has handed down sentences to 39 internet fraudsters, marking a significant crackdown on fraudulent activities. These individuals faced separate charges related to impersonation, cheating, and possession of fraudulent documents.

The convictions were secured by the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), overseen by Justices O.S. Adeyemi, Bayo Taiwo, and Ladiran Akintola at the Oyo State High Court.

The fraudsters were each charged with a single count related to their crimes, including obtaining by false pretence. The defendants include: Fasanya Abdulqudus Gbolahan, Nkiri Oluchukwu Destiny, Fakoya Tobi Samuel, and many others. Their fraudulent activities ranged from online impersonation to scamming individuals using false identities.

Oyo Court Sentences fraudsters: For instance, Onah Austine Ayomide was convicted for fraudulently impersonating a U.S. citizen on Facebook. The court sentenced Ayomide to either one year of community service or a fine of N200,000. Other convicts received varying sentences, including jail terms, community service, and fines.

Some of the notable sentences include:

• Tunde: One month jail term or N250,000 fine.
• Abeeb Ayomide: Six months of community service plus a fine of N500,000.
• Sijuola: One month community service or N100,000 fine.
• Olatunde and Opemiposi: Three months community service without the option of a fine.

Additionally, certain convicts forfeited their vehicles and other assets to the Federal Government. These sentences come as part of a broader effort by the EFCC to combat internet fraud and deter similar activities.

The operation that led to these convictions involved a coordinated sting operation targeting internet fraud activities. This significant legal action underscores the commitment of Nigerian authorities to address and reduce cybercrime in the region.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by news

British and Nigerian Suspects: The Nigeria Police Force is actively seeking British national Andrew Wynne and Nigerian citizen Lucky Obiyan. They are accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s democratically elected government.

Police Declare Andrew Wynne and Lucky Obiyan Wanted for Regime Change Plot

On Monday, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi revealed in Abuja that Wynne, a British national, has allegedly built a network to destabilize the Nigerian government. This network aimed to create chaos and undermine democratic governance.

Details of the Alleged Plot Against the Nigerian Government

Adejobi outlined the investigation into these subversive elements. The police have conducted a thorough inquiry, collaborating with other security agencies. Nine suspects have been arrested for receiving foreign financial support to disrupt Nigeria.

Role of Andrew Wynne in the Conspiracy: British and Nigerian Suspects

The investigation reveals that Andrew Wynne, also known as Andrew Povich or Drew Povey, established sleeper cells intended to destabilize Nigeria.

He allegedly used fronts such as ‘Iva Valley Bookshop’ and ‘STARS of Nations Schools’ for his activities. Wynne is now a key figure in this investigation, having fled the country.

Local Coordinator Lucky Obiyan Also on the Run

Wynne’s local coordinator, Lucky Ehis Obiyan, has similarly evaded capture. Both individuals have been declared wanted, and an international manhunt is underway.

Evidence and Implications of the Alleged Plot

Documentary evidence and confessions indicate that Wynne played a significant role in planning the regime change. He reportedly issued directives, monitored activities, and financed operations intended to incite violence and provoke international criticism of Nigeria.

Conclusion: Legal and National Security Impact

These actions, if proven, constitute serious violations of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011 and other laws. The ongoing investigation underscores the gravity of this alleged conspiracy to disrupt Nigeria’s democratic process.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 2, 2024 by news