Justice M. Itsueli of the Edo State High Court sitting in Benin, Edo State on Thursday, March 30, 2023 convicted and sentenced Bashiru Oladipo Alakuro to jail for fraud.
Alakuro was arraigned by the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on one count charge of intent to defraud.
Upon arraignment, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charge prompting the prosecution counsel, Al- Amin Ibrahim Abdul to pray the court to convict and sentence him accordingly.
However, defence counsel, Inegbedion Emmanuel pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as the defendant was a first time offender who has promised to turn a new leaf.
Justice Itsueli convicted and sentenced Alakuro to one year imprisonment or a fine of N100,000.
In addition, the convict is to forfeit his phone to the Federal Government of Nigeria and undertake in writing to be of good behaviour forthwith.
Also, operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC, on March 31, 2023 arrested eight suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City.
The suspects are Jeffrey Osagbemwonrue, David Ogheneyewuwe Ighere, Harry Aputu Donald, Desmond Taiwo, Blessing Samson, Oshiobugie Pascal, John Ohien and Roland Junior Osagie.
They were arrested following actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from them include mobile phones and Mercedes Benz GLK350 and CLA 250 cars
The EFCC added that the suspects have made useful statements and will be charge to court soon.
