Justice R.M. Aikawa of Kaduna’s Federal High Court convicted two internet fraudsters, Olawuyi Segun Caleb and Abdulkareem Abubakar, for cybercrimes.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully prosecuted both men on charges including fraud and money laundering.
Caleb, who posed as a U.S. citizen named “Larissa Livier” on Facebook, violated cybercrime laws by seeking illegal financial gains.
Meanwhile, Abubakar retained $150 from criminal activities, breaching anti-money laundering regulations.
Both defendants admitted guilt when arraigned in court.
During sentencing, Justice Aikawa gave Abubakar five years in prison or a ₦500,000 fine, seizing his $150 and smartphone.
Similarly, Caleb received five years or a ₦400,000 fine, forfeiting his iPhone 13.
The judge emphasized deterring future cybercrimes through these verdicts.
Earlier, EFCC operatives arrested the duo at a Minna hotel after tracing their fraudulent online activities.
Prosecutors highlighted how they deceived victims while defense lawyers pleaded for leniency, citing remorse.
This case reflects Nigeria’s intensified crackdown on internet fraud.
The EFCC warns citizens against cybercrime while encouraging reports of suspicious transactions.
As digital crimes evolve, authorities vow to prosecute offenders and recover illicit gains.
Public awareness campaigns now target youth involvement in fraud, promoting lawful income sources.
With rising convictions, the judiciary aims to disrupt criminal networks exploiting technology.
The Kaduna ruling sets another precedent in Nigeria’s anti-graft efforts.
Cybercrime victims increasingly cooperate with investigators, strengthening cases.
Financial institutions now implement stricter monitoring to flag suspicious transactions early.
These multi-sector approaches seek to reduce economic losses from fraud.
As the EFCC expands its operations, more arrests and prosecutions are expected nationwide.
The commission urges parents and educators to steer young people away from get-rich-quick schemes.
For now, the Kaduna convictions demonstrate that cybercrime carries severe consequences.
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