8 sentenced over internet fraud

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Uyo Zonal Command has secured convictions for eight internet fraudsters in Akwa Ibom.

According to EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale on Saturday.

Justice Rosemary Oghoghorie of the Federal High Court, Calabar, Cross River State, sentenced the fraudsters on charges of criminal impersonation, identity theft, and obtaining by false pretence.

The convicts include Abasiofon Daniel Essien (alias Jason Momoa), Gideon Junior, Edikan Ubong, Harrison Chiemelie, Ndifereke Umoh, Christopher Promise, Effiong Wisdom, and Godswill Nsikan.

Essien was charged with taking possession of $300 from identity theft. Wisdom was charged with presenting himself as Pamela Randy to Michael Moore on social media and receiving $170.

All eight pleaded guilty, and the court sentenced them to two years in jail each, with options of fines ranging from N1 million to N2 million. They were also ordered to restitute various amounts to their victims and forfeit their phones used in the crimes to the government.