The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of five internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.

Justice M. Itsueli of the Edo State High Court sentenced Ayo Korede, Ogbemudia Osaretin, Harry Ehimien, Osasumwen Osahenator, and Efosa Richard after they pleaded guilty to separate one-count charges, including impersonation, obtaining money under false pretence, retention of criminal proceeds, and possession of fraudulent documents.

According to the EFCC, the fraudsters were arrested by operatives from the Benin Zonal Directorate after credible intelligence exposed their involvement in online scams.

Justice Itsueli sentenced Korede, Osaretin, Osahenator, and Richard to two years imprisonment each or a fine of ₦200,000. Ehimien received a two-year jail term or a ₦100,000 fine, with an option of community service.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of their phones, laptops, and bank balances, which were identified as tools and proceeds of their crimes.

EFCC prosecutors I. M. Elodi, I.K. Agwai, K.Y. Bello, A. A. Ibrahim, Ibrahim Faisal, and M.S. Dahiru pushed for their conviction, while defence lawyers pleaded for mercy, claiming the convicts had become remorseful.

The EFCC has urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious online activities to help curb cybercrime in Nigeria.