KADUNA, Nigeria – A High Court in Kaduna State has ordered the forfeiture of a convicted fraudster’s assets, including an iPhone 14 Promax, two HP laptops, a Mercedes Benz car, and N4 million in cash to the Federal Government.
The court also sentenced the convict, Stanley Julius, to a year’s imprisonment, with an option of a N250, 000 fine.
Justice Dairus Khobo delivered the judgment on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, after Julius pleaded guilty to the charge of internet fraud.
The conviction and forfeiture orders follow a successful prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
EFCC counsel E. K. Garba informed the court that Julius was apprehended based on intelligence reports about a syndicate of fraudsters operating in and around Karatudu, Kaduna.
The convict used fraudulent means to pose as a foreigner, manipulating unsuspecting victims into phony social relationshipship primarily through the social media app, Telegraph.
The prosecution further revealed that Julius utilized the ill-gotten funds to acquire a Mercedes Benz GLK 350 2013 model car.
An additional N4 million was discovered in his possession.
Garba stated that the acts committed by the convict were punishable under Section 319 (a) of the Penal Code.
He submitted Julius’ guilty plea and the evidence seized at the time of his arrest to the court, urging that Julius be convicted in accordance with his plea and the exhibits presented.
