The Federal High Court in Kaduna has sentenced Owoyale Shuaib, Oluwafemi Moses Oluwatosin, and Wisdom Sambo Sammy to various terms for cybercrimes, following their convictions on separate counts of fraud.
A statement signed by Head, Media and Publicity, EFCC, Dele Oyewale stated that Justices Hawaa Buhari and R.M. Aikawa delivered the sentences in a case prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“These sentences underscore our commitment to combating internet fraud,” said Oyewale. “We will not relent until cybercriminals are brought to justice.”
Each of the defendants pleaded guilty to charges of impersonation. Shuaib was sentenced to four years, while Oluwatosin received a two-year term. Sammy faced the stiffest sentence, receiving five years in prison. Alternatively, each could pay a fine of 500,000 Naira.
“The judges made it clear: fraud will not be tolerated,” stated M.J. Argungu, the prosecution counsel. “These individuals exploited victims through social media, and today, they are held accountable.”
The trio was arrested in Minna based on credible intelligence regarding their fraudulent activities. As part of their penalties, their mobile phones, used in perpetrating their crimes, were forfeited to the federal government.
“This sends a strong message,” added Oyewale. “Fraudsters should think twice before deploying illegal tactics for personal gain.”
