22 Yahoo Boys Jailed in Benin City for Internet Fraud

Court Sends 22 Internet Fraudsters to Jail in Benin City.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of 22 internet fraudsters in Benin City, marking a significant victory in the fight against cybercrime. Between September 5 and 13, 2024, the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC prosecuted the defendants before Justice Igho Braimoh of the Edo State High Court.

The Convicts

The convicted individuals include Emmanuel Osakpolor Bright, Omoigui Kelvin, Isaac Jonathan, Edem Progress, Philip Desmond, and 17 others. They were found guilty of various charges, including obtaining by false pretence, retention of proceeds of crime, and possession of fraudulent documents [1).

Sentencing

Justice Braimoh sentenced eight defendants to two years imprisonment or a fine of N200,000 each, while nine others received three years imprisonment or a fine of N200,000 each. The remaining five defendants were sentenced to two or three years imprisonment or fines ranging from N200,000 to N200,000.

Forfeiture of Assets

The judge ordered the forfeiture of two Lexus cars recovered from Eke Miracles and Omogaga Precious to the Federal Government of Nigeria. Additionally, all convicts must forfeit their phones, laptops, and bank account funds to the government and provide written undertakings to behave henceforth.

This conviction demonstrates the EFCC’s commitment to combating internet fraud and financial crimes in Nigeria. The commission has been actively working to curb cybercrime, with previous convictions and arrests made in Benin City and other parts of the country.