Justice W.I. Aziegbemhin of Edo State High Court in Benin City has handed down a three-year prison sentence to Ofure Akpolo for retaining proceeds of crime. Akpolo was found guilty of taking possession of $22,297.97 in his domiciliary account, knowing it was obtained through cybercrime.

Although Akpolo pleaded guilty, his lawyer asked for mercy, stating that the defendant had shown remorse. Despite this plea, Justice Aziegbemhin sentenced Akpolo to three years in prison with a fine option of N500,000. Additionally, Akpolo was ordered to forfeit his phone, bank account balances, and other assets acquired through criminal activities to the Nigerian government.

The convict’s arrest was initiated by the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for his involvement in fraudulent activities. The EFCC described the case as a successful prosecution that sends a strong message against financial crimes in the country.