EFCC secures bench warrant for suspected online scammer

An Ikeja Special Offences Court on Tuesday issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Peter Ekweozor, suspected of internet fraud.

Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe issued the warrant due to the defendant’s failure to appear for arraignment.

The judge adjourned the case until June 18 for further proceedings.

Earlier, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Mr Ayanfe Ogunsina, informed the court that all efforts to locate the defendant and his sureties had failed.

He told the court that Ekweozor had been arrested by the EFCC on May 13, 2024, at Indy-Pool Hotel, Ajegunle, Olodi Apapa, Lagos, alongside other suspects.

According to him, the arrest followed reliable intelligence on a syndicate of online fraudsters.

He added that investigations revealed the defendant allegedly operated fake Facebook and Instagram accounts, posing as a female porn star from Atlanta, America, to defraud unsuspecting internet users.

“The defendant was granted administrative bail but absconded, failing to report to the EFCC office in Ikoyi as required.

“My Lord, the defendant is aware of the charge and is evading trial.

“I hereby pray your Lordship to issue a bench warrant against him,” Ogunsina said.