No fewer than 14 internet fraudsters have been arrested by men of the Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at different locations within Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
According to the anti-graft agency spokesperson, Wilson Uwajaren, the suspects were apprehended on Thursday Morning.
The spokesman noted that laptops, mobile phones, a router and a PlayStation 4 were recovered from the suspects.
The suspects that were nabbed include Unwana Peter, Itoro Lucky Moses, White Solomon, Benjamin Inyang, Aniekan Akanawan, God’s-Favour Bassey, Moses Udiodua and Abasieyo Ndem.
Others are Adinkwu Destiny, Charles Joseph, Joseph Edet Eduno, David John, Ndiana Abasi George and Nsikan Victor.
The statement read partly, “They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.”
READ ALSO: Family of Three Killed in Kaduna fire outbreak
Meanwhile, a 30-year-old man, Ikechukwu Charles, was arraigned in a Magistrate Court sitting in Abakaliki, capital of Ebonyi State, for allegedly stealing over N317, 000 from a photo lab operator, Mrs Uduma Chikaodili.
The suspect was arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, intimidation and stealing.
Investigation revealed that the suspect alongside his girlfriend, whose name is yet to be ascertained, stormed the photo lab of Mrs Chikaodili, located at N0. 2 Ikom Street, Abakaliki, and took away her phone, which he (Charles) used to transfer over N317,000 from her bank account.
The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecutor, Inspector Chinedu Mbam, during the arraignment, told the court that the defendant committed the offence on December 21, 2022.
According to him, he stole an Infinix Hot 11 android phone, valued at N98, 000 and the sum of N317, 000 from Mrs. Uduma Chikaodili’s bank account.
In her ruling, the magistrate, Mrs Ukpabi Nnenna, said the crime committed by the suspect is a bailable offence but his surety must fulfil the conditions of the court.
The case was adjourned till 26th of April, 2023, for further hearing.