Nigerian Immigration intercepts 21 suspected minors at the Nigeria-Niger border. Officials suspect human trafficking and have handed them over to NAPTIP for investigation. 21 Suspected Minors Without Travel Documents Stopped at Nigeria-Niger Border The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has intercepted 21 minors suspected to be potential victims of human trafficking near the Nigeria-Niger Republic border in Geidam, Yobe State. The minors, aged seven to fifteen years, were reportedly being transported from Magama Local Government Area (LGA) in Niger State to Niger Republic for studies but lacked any valid travel documents. Immigration Hands Over Minors to NAPTIP for Investigation While handing over the suspected victims to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Sani Sule-Jega, the Yobe State Comptroller of Immigration, emphasized that their duty is to prevent illegal border crossings and ensure migration is properly managed. “These minors were intercepted at the Geidam Border Out-Post, which was established to curb illegal entry. Since they had no travel documents, we suspect they could be victims of trafficking. We have now handed them over to NAPTIP for further investigation,” Sule-Jega explained. Guardian Claims Children Were Being Taken for Studies The alleged guardian, Abubakar Sadiq, defended his actions, stating that the children’s parents had sent him to find an affordable school for them in Niger Republic. “Their parents requested that I find a cost-effective school for them, which is why I am taking them to Maine in Niger Republic,” Sadiq told Channels Television. However, due to the lack of proper travel documentation, immigration officials remain skeptical about the true nature of their journey. Authorities Continue Investigation Both the guardian, the driver, and the minors have now been handed over to NAPTIP for further questioning and verification of their claims. Authorities will investigate whether this case involves child trafficking or is a genuine educational migration. This development highlights the importance of border security and the ongoing efforts of Nigerian authorities to combat illegal migration and human trafficking. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Services (NHFSS) in Abia State have successfully cleared the forests in Umuahia of criminal elements, ensuring a safer environment for residents and farmers. This was disclosed by the state leader of NHFSS, Sunday Chukwudiegwu Mmeribe. Community Support in Crime Prevention Mmeribe revealed that the hunters relied on intelligence gathered from local farmers to track down drug dealers and other criminals hiding in the forests. He emphasized that their operations have significantly improved security in Umuahia, making the region safer for inhabitants. Collaboration with Traditional Leaders and Security Agencies The NHFSS has been working closely with traditional rulers and law enforcement agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), to combat crime effectively. According to Mmeribe, since 2016, their forest guards have been instrumental in apprehending kidnappers, child traffickers, and other offenders, swiftly handing them over to the appropriate authorities within 24 hours. Restoring Safety to Ikpa Forest One of the major achievements highlighted by Mmeribe is the successful sanitization of Ikpa Forest, situated between Ubaha and Umuezeoma in the Oriendu Ancient Kingdom, Umuahia North LGA. Previously, farmers, particularly women, faced harassment and attacks from criminals, discouraging them from working on their farmlands. With the recent security improvements, farming activities have resumed without fear. Call for Government Support Mmeribe commended Governor Alex Otti for his commitment to tackling insecurity in Abia State. However, he appealed for additional support in the form of operational vehicles and essential resources to enhance the effectiveness of their crime-fighting efforts. He lamented the lack of adequate support, stressing that better resources would allow NHFSS to sustain and expand their security operations. With the ongoing efforts of the NHFSS and collaborations with local authorities, Umuahia’s forests are now safer, allowing farmers and residents to go about their activities without fear. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Overview of Nigeria’s Counter-Terrorism Trials Between 2017 and 2024, the Nigerian Federal Government, through the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, concluded 1,743 terrorism-related trials. However, despite these efforts, a significant number of suspects walked free due to inadequate evidence. The Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Mohammed Babadoko, revealed that out of these cases:✅ 742 convictions were secured.❌ 888 suspects were discharged and acquitted. This means that only 42.6% of terrorism cases resulted in convictions, leaving more than half (51.2%) of the suspects released due to weak prosecution and lack of admissible evidence. Key Reasons for the Government’s Failed Prosecutions 1. Poor Investigation and Evidence Collection Security agencies lack adequate training, forensic tools, and resources to conduct thorough investigations. Prosecutors often rely on confessional statements obtained under duress, which are inadmissible in court. Many suspects were discharged because their cases lacked solid evidence beyond their forced confessions. 2. Witness Intimidation and Lack of Protection Many witnesses in terrorism trials face threats, intimidation, and even assassination. Due to Nigeria’s weak witness protection program, people fear for their safety and refuse to testify, leading to case dismissals due to lack of evidence. 3. Poor Inter-Agency Coordination Law enforcement agencies fail to share critical information properly. Many suspects were discharged because of mishandled documentation, making it impossible for the prosecution to build a strong case. 4. Absence of Forensic and Technological Evidence Prosecutors struggle to prove cases due to the lack of modern forensic tools. Some suspects arrested years after alleged terrorist acts could not be tied to crimes because of missing forensic evidence. 5. International Barriers to Prosecution Terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP operate internationally, making prosecution difficult without global cooperation. Bureaucratic delays and differing legal systems hinder Nigeria’s ability to secure convictions. Human Rights Watch (HRW) Report on Nigeria’s Terrorism Trials A Human Rights Watch (HRW) report highlighted serious flaws in Nigeria’s terrorism prosecution process: Legal Experts and Human Rights Advocates Weigh In Government Defends Its Actions Kamarudeen Ogundele, a presidential aide, argued that courts, not prosecutors, decide guilt. He emphasized that the Rule of Law was upheld, and cases were handled professionally. Senior Lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, Disagrees Falana criticized the government for failing to present concrete evidence against suspects, leading to mass acquittals. He highlighted that 400 terrorism sponsors were arrested but never prosecuted, showing lack of seriousness in combating terrorism. Justice Experts Question Unusual Conviction Rates Legal analysts pointed out that in July 2024 alone, 125 terrorism cases were convicted, raising concerns about rushed trials. They questioned whether the Nigerian government was politicizing convictions rather than ensuring due process. Way Forward: Solutions for Effective Terrorism Prosecution To strengthen counter-terrorism trials, Nigeria must:✅ Improve evidence collection and forensic capabilities.✅ Establish a robust witness protection program.✅ Enhance coordination among security agencies.✅ Strengthen international cooperation for cross-border terrorism cases.✅ Ensure fair trials with proper legal representation and interpreters. Conclusion Nigeria’s counter-terrorism prosecution process is deeply flawed, with hundreds of suspects walking free due to weak cases. Without urgent reforms in investigations, evidence handling, and legal frameworks, terrorism trials will continue to fail, allowing dangerous individuals to roam free. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Makurdi – The Federal High Court in Makurdi, under the leadership of Justice Rafael Egbe, has scheduled the next hearing for May 5th in a N2.6 billion lawsuit filed by the Benue State Investment and Property Company (BIPC) against the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC). This suit centers around the alleged illegal sale of shares by NDIC. The legal battle dates back to 2011, when BIPC initiated a case against NDIC and the now-defunct All States Trust Bank. The case was temporarily halted when NDIC sought an out-of-court settlement. However, after both parties had attempted to resolve the matter through the Arbitration Panel in Abuja with no success, NDIC withdrew from the settlement talks, opting to resume the case in court. Court Testimony and Documents Presented Douglas Pepe, SAN, who represents BIPC, called Paul Agu, the former MD/CEO of BIPC, to testify on the company’s behalf. Agu explained that BIPC had applied for a N550 million loan from the Federal Mortgage Bank. As part of the loan agreement, BIPC pledged some of its shares as collateral. However, Agu revealed that the bank failed to fulfill its contractual obligations, resulting in the deduction of charges from BIPC’s account. Moreover, the bank did not complete the necessary process for opening the letter of credit required for the loan facility. In support of BIPC’s claims, Pepe presented 32 documents, highlighting the significant impact of the bank’s failure to honor the agreement. Request for Compensation BIPC’s legal team urged the court to order NDIC to pay N2.6 billion as compensation for lost income resulting from BIPC’s inability to trade with the shares pledged as collateral. These shares, which had been with NDIC since 2002, were valued at over N740 million in 2007. By 2007, the shares had appreciated to more than N5.5 billion, according to the plaintiff. Additionally, BIPC is seeking compensation for N99.5 million in proceeds from the illegal sale of shares and N62.8 million for lost dividends and bonuses over the years. Case Continued The defense team, led by Aondover Iorngee, requested a future date to present their case. The legal proceedings will continue in May. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Swift Police Action Neutralizes Kidnappers Along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway In a decisive operation, the Ogun State Police Command has successfully neutralized five suspected kidnappers along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, ensuring the safe rescue of three abducted victims. The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, confirmed this development in a statement issued from Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. According to the report, the Sagamu Area Commander swiftly mobilized officers after receiving a distress call from commuters regarding an ongoing armed robbery near Ilishan. Ambush on Commuters Sparks Police Intervention Eyewitness accounts reveal that the armed assailants blocked the highway using an articulated truck, indiscriminately opening fire on innocent travelers, causing chaos and panic. During the attack, three individuals – Bolaji Bilesanmi (65), Olasunkanmi Idowu (50), and Mohammed Salisu – were forcibly taken from two vehicles:✅ Honda Pilot (Lagos EKY113GZ)✅ Honda Accord (Lagos KJA13QFA) Recognizing the severity of the situation, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, immediately deployed a covert anti-kidnapping squad to track down the criminals. Police Raid Kidnappers’ Hideout, Fatal Shootout Ensues On January 29, 2025, at approximately 4:00 AM, the tactical squad located the kidnappers’ hideout. However, upon sighting the approaching officers, the criminals engaged them in a fierce gun duel. During the exchange, five kidnappers were fatally neutralized, while others managed to escape with severe gunshot wounds. Items Recovered at the Scene: ✔ One AK-47 rifle✔ 10 rounds of 5.6mm calibre ammunition✔ ₦5.2 million (suspected ransom proceeds)✔ Three mobile phones Fortunately, all three kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed. Security operatives are currently conducting a manhunt for the fleeing criminals who sustained injuries. Commissioner’s Warning Against Crime Following this successful operation, Commissioner Ogunlowo issued a stern warning to criminals, particularly young individuals engaging in high-profile crimes for financial gain. He reassured the public of the Ogun State Police Command’s commitment to maintaining security, cracking down on criminal activities, and ensuring that innocent citizens can travel safely. “This Command will continue to take decisive action against criminals terrorizing our people. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement.” – CP Lanre Ogunlowo Final Thoughts This latest breakthrough by the Ogun State Police reinforces the effectiveness of proactive security strategies in combating crime along Nigeria’s highways. The swift rescue of kidnapped victims without harm further highlights the importance of rapid response and intelligence-driven operations in tackling insecurity. ? Stay informed! Share this article to spread awareness about security measures in Nigeria. SEO Optimization Summary:✅ Focus Keyword included in the title and throughout the article✅ Image Keyphrase optimized for search visibility✅ Well-structured content with engaging subheadings✅ Call to action for increased engagement✅ Tags included for Google Search Console indexing Would you like me to include an optimized meta description for this post as well? READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Protesters storm the Federal High Court in Abuja, demanding the release of Omoyele Sowore. Activists accuse the police of intimidation and misplaced priorities. Activists Rally Against Intimidation, Call for Sowore’s Freedom A wave of protests erupted at the Federal High Court in Abuja as #EndBadGovernance activists demanded the immediate release of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore. The demonstrators accused security forces of using intimidation tactics to suppress dissent, emphasizing their stand against what they described as political oppression. Why Was Sowore Detained? Sowore was summoned on multiple allegations, including: He later took to X.com (formerly Twitter) to claim that his legal troubles were politically motivated, citing his vocal criticism of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure extension. However, following a meeting with the Force Intelligence Department of the Nigeria Police Force, Sowore announced that he had been granted bail. Protesters Slam Authorities for Misplaced Priorities Despite the heavy presence of security forces on Wednesday, protesters remained defiant. One demonstrator criticized the government’s approach, accusing the authorities of prioritizing the suppression of activists over addressing rising insecurity in Abuja. “Police officers are here to intimidate peaceful demonstrators while Abuja is facing serious security challenges. Instead of deploying personnel to crime-ridden areas, they are stationed here to suppress citizens. This reflects the misplaced priorities of this administration and the illegal Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun,” the protester stated. Public Outcry Over Sowore’s Detention The protest underscores growing discontent with governance in Nigeria, particularly regarding the suppression of dissenting voices. Many activists argue that Sowore’s detention is part of a broader strategy to silence critics of the government. The #EndBadGovernance movement continues to gain traction as citizens push for accountability, justice, and better governance. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, faces ₦110 billion fraud charges as the EFCC presents its first witness in court. Read the full details of the corruption trial. Introduction The trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, over alleged ₦110 billion fraud has taken a new turn as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented its first witness in court. Justice Maryann Anenih dismissed objections raised by Bello and his co-defendants, paving the way for the trial to proceed. EFCC’s First Witness Testifies in Court On Wednesday, the EFCC brought forward its first witness, Fabian Nwaora, a real estate businessman, to testify in the 16-count money laundering charge against the former governor. Despite objections from the defense counsel, who argued that the prosecution had failed to provide all necessary evidence, Justice Anenih ruled that the trial should continue, citing the absence of a formal application to support the objection. Property Sale and EFCC Investigation During his testimony, Nwaora, the owner of EFAB Property, revealed details of a real estate transaction linked to the case. According to him, in 2020, his company sold a property at No. 1 Ikobosi Street, Maitama, Abuja, to Shehu Bello for ₦550 million. However, in 2023, Shehu Bello returned all documents related to the property, informing the company that the EFCC had launched an investigation. Subsequently, Nwaora was summoned by the anti-graft agency and was instructed to refund the money to an account designated by the EFCC. Allegations Against Yahaya Bello and Co-Defendants Yahaya Bello, who served as governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is standing trial alongside two government officials, Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu. The charge sheet (CR/7781) accuses them of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and illegal acquisition of properties. List of Allegedly Illicit Properties The EFCC alleges that the former governor diverted state funds to acquire multiple high-value properties, including: Additionally, the EFCC alleged that Bello and his associates transferred $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank in the United States. They are also accused of illegally acquiring ₦677.8 million from Bespoque Business Solution Limited. Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions Following his arraignment, Yahaya Bello was remanded in Kuje Prison on December 10, 2024. However, while his co-defendants were granted bail earlier, he was later admitted to bail under the following conditions: The case has been adjourned until April 3, 2025, for further hearings. Conclusion The EFCC’s case against Yahaya Bello is one of Nigeria’s most significant corruption trials in recent times. As proceedings continue, all eyes remain on the court’s next decision regarding the former governor’s fate. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Introduction Activist and politician Omoyele Sowore is facing legal action from the Nigeria Police Force following controversial statements made on social media. The police headquarters in Abuja have accused him of attempting to incite public disorder through his online remarks about the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. Allegations and Charges According to the police, Sowore’s comments, which labeled the IGP as “illegal,” were designed to provoke unrest and undermine law enforcement authority. One of the key statements cited in the case reads: “The illegal IG of Nigeria Police Force, Kayode Egbetokun, will make the next #ENDSARS inevitable!” As a result, Sowore has been charged with three counts of cybercrime under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024. The case, filed under suit number FCH/ABJ/23/25, alleges that Sowore knowingly spread false information through his verified Twitter (X) account with the intent to disrupt public peace. Breakdown of Charges Against Sowore According to the police, these statements were aimed at fueling unrest and challenging the legitimacy of the police leadership. Upcoming Arraignment and Legal Representation Sowore is expected to appear before Justice Liman of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday. His defense team will be led by Marshall Abubakar, a legal expert known for handling high-profile human rights cases. Sowore’s Arrest and Detention The activist was reportedly arrested on Monday after rejecting bail conditions imposed by the police. He had been accused of obstructing public officers and cyberstalking, leading to his detention and subsequent arraignment. Public Reaction and #EndSARS Concerns Sowore’s legal battle has reignited concerns over freedom of speech and the potential resurgence of the #EndSARS movement, which initially protested against police brutality in Nigeria. Many activists argue that his arrest is a suppression of dissent, while others see it as an attempt to maintain law and order. Conclusion As Sowore faces trial, Nigerians are closely watching how the judiciary will handle this case. The outcome could set a precedent for future interactions between activists and law enforcement authorities in Nigeria. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Journalist Released After DSS Invitation A correspondent for Vanguard, Haruna Aliyu, has been released unharmed following an invitation by the Kebbi State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS). Aliyu had earlier raised concerns over his safety upon receiving the summons, fearing possible threats. However, after honoring the invitation, he confirmed that he was treated professionally and given the opportunity to explain his knowledge regarding a dispute involving his colleague and DSS personnel. Aliyu’s visit to the DSS Kebbi Command strengthened the relationship between media professionals and the security agency, which is known for its thorough investigations aimed at ensuring justice regardless of social status. He expressed his gratitude to Vanguard Newspaper, the Kebbi Area Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Correspondent Chapel for their support. He also clarified that his initial fears were misplaced and pledged to continue fostering professional collaboration with the DSS. DSS Witness Testifies Against NSCDC Officers in Kidnapping & Banditry Case Meanwhile, at the Federal High Court in Ibadan, a DSS official, Mr. Stephen Okolo, testified against three officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) and an alleged arms dealer, all accused of involvement in kidnapping and banditry. The NSCDC officials—Olamide Okesola, Adedeji Adewale, and Asmau Omar—along with an alleged illegal arms dealer, Emmanuel Olatunji, are facing multiple charges, including conspiracy, terrorism, and illegal arms supply. How Technology Aided the Arrest During his testimony before Justice N.E. Maha, Okolo explained that the DSS deployed advanced surveillance technology to track down and apprehend the suspects. The operation, initiated in January 2023, was in response to the rising cases of kidnapping and banditry in Oyo State’s Okeogun region and parts of Kwara State. Through sustained monitoring, the DSS identified and arrested key figures in the criminal network. Among them were two notorious bandit leaders, Baguda and Banshile, who were known for their violent activities. Okolo also presented crucial evidence to the court, including a bag containing 1,000 rounds of live ammunition, reportedly seized from Lawan Buhari, another suspect linked to the case. He emphasized that breaking the chain of ammunition supply significantly reduced the rate of criminal activities in the affected areas. Arms Supplier Confesses to DSS Investigators The second prosecution witness (PW2), Lawan Buhari, admitted to selling AK-47 rifles and bullets to the defendants, who allegedly funneled the weapons to terrorist groups. Buhari, who was formerly with Operation Burst—a security task force—revealed that the accused NSCDC officers had approached him for arms supply. Before his arrest, Buhari claimed he had received substantial financial payments for his role in arming criminal elements. He was eventually detained at the 81 Battalion Barracks in Mokola, Ibadan. Charges & Next Court Hearing According to DSS prosecution counsel T.A. Nurudeen, the defendants are facing a 15-count amended charge, including terrorism, illegal arms dealing, and aiding and abetting terrorism. However, all four defendants pleaded not guilty. Justice Maha has scheduled the continuation of the trial for February 11, 2025. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Discover how Nigerian troops dismantled illegal refineries, recovered 30,000 litres of stolen petroleum products, and arrested 15 oil thieves in the Niger Delta. In a strategic crackdown on oil theft and illegal refining, troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army have recovered 30,000 litres of stolen petroleum products and dismantled 13 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta region. This commendable effort is part of ongoing operations aimed at curbing economic sabotage in the country. Major Arrests and Recoveries The operation, which took place across various states in the Niger Delta, also led to the arrest of 15 suspected oil thieves. Additionally, the troops demobilized four boats and deactivated 150 local ovens used for illegal refining. Lt.-Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Division, provided details of the operation. He reported that troops raided a vandalized location in Ugo Community, Orhionmwon Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo State, where they discovered 252,000 litres of stolen crude oil. In Delta State, the troops intercepted a red DAF Tanker Truck without a plate number in Asade Community, Ethiope West LGA. The tanker, which had siphoned over 15,000 litres of crude oil from a PAN Ocean Nigeria Limited pipeline in Ovade, was seized during the operation. Further Seizures in Rivers State The crackdown extended to Rivers State, where the troops recovered over 10,000 litres of stolen petroleum products along the Imo River corridor. Lt.-Col. Danjuma revealed that an illegal refining site was uncovered in Odagwa, near the Imo River waterways, while products were seized in Lekuma, Abiama, and Oyigbo communities. Sustained Efforts to Combat Oil Theft This operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to tackling oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta. The destruction of illegal refineries and arrest of suspects is a significant step toward safeguarding the country’s oil resources. Authorities urge citizens to report suspicious activities related to oil theft, as joint security efforts intensify to restore peace and economic stability to the affected regions. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The IGP prosecutes Nigerian businessmen over a N13.5 billion forex fraud involving a foreign victim. Learn about the allegations and ongoing trial in Abuja. The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has filed a lawsuit against a group of Nigerian businessmen accused of defrauding a foreigner of N13.5 billion through a fraudulent forex transaction. The case is currently being heard at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Allegations of Fraud The foreign victim, Alhaji Rafik Akar, was reportedly deceived by the defendants, including Victor Arinze, Yahaya Karimi, and three other individuals, during a Bureau de Change transaction in Abuja. According to the IGP’s legal representative, Simon Lough (SAN), the accused conspired to obtain $38,260,000 from Rafik under false pretenses. The funds were allegedly deposited into the accounts of three companies: Pearson Nigeria Limited, Lasucess Limited, and Rainforest Ballroom. Details of the Scheme The police revealed that the defendants had misled Rafik into transferring the funds by claiming they had $38.26 million to exchange at a favorable rate of N353 per dollar. However, investigations showed that the defendants used the funds to acquire properties across Lagos, Abuja, and Delta states. Fraudulent Proceeds Uncovered Further investigations by the Nigerian Police, in collaboration with the Thailand Police, revealed that the $38.26 million the defendants promised Rafik was allegedly derived from fraudulent activities. The authorities claim this act was a deliberate attempt to conceal the illicit origins of the funds. The defendants are now facing multiple charges, including conspiracy, fraud, and money laundering. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A group of armed bandits, numbering at least 20, launched an attack on the Chikakore community in Kubwa, Abuja, on Sunday night. The assailants abducted five residents, including a family of three and a guest who was visiting. The attack took place around 11 pm when the bandits stormed the Health Centre extension area of Chikakore. Among those taken were Adesiyan Akinropo, his wife, their son, and their visiting guest. Additionally, a neighboring resident was kidnapped, bringing the total number of victims to five. During the attack, a woman was severely injured, sustaining a head wound after being struck with a gun butt. She was rushed to a hospital due to significant bleeding. Police officers from the Byzahin division arrived at the scene, but by the time they reached the location, the bandits had already fled with the victims. Residents of the community expressed their frustration over the delayed police response, noting that law enforcement arrived approximately 90 minutes after the incident had occurred. One resident voiced their concerns, stating, “The bandits have resumed attacks in Chikakore. We need a police division here in our community. We have land and a fully-built five-bedroom apartment ready to accommodate the police, but there has been no deployment yet.” This attack has sparked further anxiety over the security situation in Chikakore, which had already faced violence earlier in January. At that time, fleeing bandits from Katsina State detonated explosives near an Islamic school in Kuchibuyi, Bwari Area Council, claiming two lives. Efforts to reach Josephine Adeh, the spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, for comments were unsuccessful, as calls went unanswered. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A Federal High Court in Lagos has scheduled the arraignment of Gbolahan Obanikoro, the son of Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, for February 27, 2025. He, along with four others, is facing charges related to an alleged ₦1.356 billion fraud. The other individuals set for arraignment include Adejare Adegbenro (51), Balmoral International Limited, M.O.B. Integrated Limited, and DDSS International Company Limited. They are accused of conspiracy, obtaining by false pretenses, false representation, and fraud in a case with five charges. Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa set the date on January 24, after the defendants failed to appear in court for their original arraignment. During the proceedings, prosecution lawyer Momoh Bello requested a bench warrant for the accused, as they had already been served notices. However, Joshua Abel, representing the fourth defendant (a company), opposed the bench warrant request. He argued that his client had only received the service notice late and that the directors, who are abroad, had not been adequately informed. Upon reviewing the proof of service, Justice Lewis-Allagoa ruled that the first and second defendants, who are individuals, had not been properly served. However, there was evidence of service for the third and fourth defendants. The court directed the prosecution to regularize the service for the remaining parties. The Inspector General of Police, through the Special Fraud Unit in Ikoyi, Lagos, has accused the defendants and others still at large of conspiring between May and September 2013 to fraudulently acquire ₦1.356 billion from Access Bank Plc (formerly Diamond Bank). The police allege that the accused misrepresented their intentions by claiming the funds were needed to import cars from Dubai for resale, but instead, they allegedly diverted the money for personal use, knowing it was the product of illegal activity. The offences are alleged to violate Section 8(i)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offenses Act (No. 14 of 2006) and Sections 18(2)(b) and (d) as well as 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
