Money Changer Arraigned On N9.8m Scam Charge

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A 31-year-old businessman, Anthony Okonji, who changes money, was on Wednesday brought before an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for allegedly obtaining 30, 840 dollars (about N9.8 million) under the guise of supplying the naira equivalent.

The accused, whose residential address was not given, is standing trial on a two-count charge of conspiracy and fraud.

The Prosecutor, SP Susan Ezema, told the court that the accused committed the offences between May 23 and May 25, 2017 in Lagos and Kano.

She said the accused obtained 30, 840 dollars (equivalent of N9.8 million) under the pretext of supplying the naira equivalent to the complainant, Yusuf Zakanji.

The offences contravened Sections 312 (3) and 323 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Section 312 prescribes 15 years jail term for false pretences, while Section 323 provides seven years for conspiracy to defraud, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

The accused denied the charge.

The Magistrate, Mr W. B. Balogun, granted the accused bail in the sum of N5 million with two sureties in like sum.

He said the sureties must be gainfully employed, have property in Lagos State and show evidence of three years tax payment.

The case was adjourned until May 17.