In a significant ruling, the Kaduna High Court has sentenced Anthony Kelechukwu to three years in prison for internet fraud, with a fine option of N200,000. In addition to the prison term, Justice Dairus Khobo ordered the forfeiture of Kelechukwu's luxury vehicles, a 2012 Toyota Venza and a 2016 Mercedes Benz C1300, along with N13 million from his bank accounts.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Kelechukwu after receiving credible information about a network of fraudsters operating in High Cost Narayi, Kaduna. Following an investigation, authorities arrested him and discovered fraudulent documents in his possession, leading to his conviction.
As part of the sentencing, the court directed that the N13 million balance from Kelechukwu's Opay, Kuda, and Access Bank accounts be forfeited to the federal government through the EFCC, with the accounts ordered to be permanently closed. Additionally, the judge mandated the forfeiture of two HP laptops and multiple iPhones (models 11, 13 Pro Max, and 14) recovered during the investigation.
Kelechukwu's conviction came after he expressed a desire to enter a plea bargain agreement, at which point he provided extrajudicial statements to the authorities. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of the EFCC to combat internet fraud and hold offenders accountable.
This ruling serves as a stern warning to those engaging in fraudulent activities, affirming that the justice system will take decisive action against such crimes.
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