The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Chima Hyginus Nkwocha, also known as “Young Billionaire,” to two years imprisonment for defrauding an American citizen, Linda Wheeler, of $345,000. The conviction, delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite, followed Nkwocha’s guilty plea to charges of impersonation and fraud.
Details of the Crime
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in a statement on Wednesday, revealed that Nkwocha was arrested in August 2024 and subsequently arraigned on two counts of cybercrime. The court was told that in 2022, Nkwocha fraudulently impersonated individuals using fake Gmail addresses, including frankcorbett272@gmail.com and chriressrifatt@gmail.com, to deceive Wheeler.
Through this scheme, Nkwocha obtained $345,000, which was converted into naira and deposited into an account with Ginux Global Nigeria Limited, a company where he was the sole signatory.
Seized Assets and Evidence
The prosecution, led by counsel Lanre Olanrewaju, presented exhibits seized during the investigation. These included:
- A black Mercedes Benz ML 350.
- Two gold necklaces with pendants, one gold bracelet, and $2,200 in cash.
- N90,280,934.00 in a Zenith Bank account under Ginux Global Nigeria Limited.
- Properties comprising a three-bedroom terrace duplex, a three-bedroom bungalow, two self-contained apartments, and a plot of land measuring approximately 300 square meters.
- Two Zenith Bank drafts worth N8,000,000.
- Assorted electronic devices.
Court Ruling and Sentencing
Upon Nkwocha’s guilty plea, Justice Nwite sentenced him to two years imprisonment, with an option of a fine of N2,000,000. Additionally, the court ordered the forfeiture of all assets acquired through the fraudulent scheme to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
These include the seized cash, properties in Lagos, Abuja, and Lekki, gold jewelry, and vehicles. The court emphasized that the forfeited items, being proceeds of crime, would serve as restitution for the financial misconduct committed.
EFCC’s Commitment to Justice
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to combating cybercrime and holding offenders accountable. “Justice has been served,” the commission stated, emphasizing the importance of strict legal measures to deter financial crimes and protect victims globally.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of fraudulent activities and highlights Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to address cybercrime and safeguard its reputation in the global community.
Published by Hobnob News.
