The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested 48 suspected internet fraudsters and herbalists for offenses bordering on conspiracy and obtaining under false pretense in Lokoja, Kogi State capital.
Head Media and Publicity of the agency, Dele Oyewale said the suspects, all males between the ages of 17-34 were arrested upon credible intelligence on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at various locations in Lokoja.
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“The herbalist, believed to be a spiritual godfather of internet fraudsters, was arrested with various charms.
“Items recovered from them include 10 exotic cars, two motorcycles, 11 laptops, 83 mobile phones and charms,” he said.
Oyewale added that they will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.
Meanwhile, Gombe Zonal Command the EFCC on Wednesday arraigned one Zakariyau Yahaya before Justice Benjamin Manji of the Adamawa state High Court for alleged N67m fraud.
He was arraigned on one-count charge bordering on criminal misappropriation and obtaining money to the tune of N67m through fraud from one Alh. Umar Zuhairu which was originally meant for the purchase of cotton seeds.
This offense was said to have contravened section 300 of the Penal Code of the state.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him in Hausa language.
Following his plea, prosecution counsel, M.O Tijani prayed the court for a speedy trial and the remand of the defendant at a Correctional Centre.
Defence counsel, Johnson Altajir informed the judge of a bail application already placed before the court.
Justice Manji adjourned the matter till March 11, 2024 for hearing of bail application and April 8 & 9 for commencement of trial and ordered that the defendant be remanded at the correctional center.
