A chief magistrates’ court in Jimeta, Yola, on Friday, ordered the remand of a 37-year-old teacher, Adamu Ayuba, in a correctional facility for allegedly defiling a seven-year-old girl at school. The police charged Mr. Ayuba, who resides in Rawani of Jambutu, Yola, with defilement, an offense contrary to Section 211 of the Penal Code Law of Adamawa State.

Mr. Ayuba pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The presiding chief magistrate, Musa Adamu, adjourned the case until May 29 to allow the police to complete their investigation.

“This case has been adjourned until May 29 to enable the police to finish their investigation and to forward the case file to the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal advice,” the chief magistrate stated.

During the court proceedings, the prosecution counsel, ASP Ezra Bulus, reported that the complainant, Fatima Isah, the mother of the minor, lodged a complaint at the police station on May 2 at about 6:00 p.m. Mr. Bulus alleged that the complainant’s daughter, a student at Anur Modern Academy Yola, returned from school on April 29 and complained of severe pain in her private part.

Mr. Bulus emphasized the criminal nature of the offense, which requires thorough legal scrutiny, and requested the court to adjourn the matter to provide ample time for the investigation.

“The alleged offence is criminal in nature and requires legal advice. We pray the court to adjourn the matter until May 29,” Bulus stated.

The court’s decision to remand Mr. Ayuba highlights the seriousness with which such allegations are treated and underscores the importance of a comprehensive investigation. The adjournment will allow the police to gather all necessary evidence and ensure that the case is thoroughly reviewed by the Department of Public Prosecution before proceeding further.

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has declined to grant bail to an executive of Binance Holdings Limited, Tigran Gambaryan, on the ground of high risk of flight.

Gambaryan and Binance were arraigned on a five-count charge bordering on money laundering. Both pleaded not guilty.

During the bail application, Defense Counsel, Mark Mordi argued for the court’s power to grant bail with conditions to ensure Gambaryan’s court attendance.

However, the Prosecution Counsel, Ekele Iheanacho opposed the application, labeling Gambaryan a flight risk.

Iheanacho stated, “The defendant attempted to obtain a new passport, claiming his old one was stolen, which is suspicious given the recent escape of his colleague.”

He highlighted Gambaryan’s dual citizenship in the United States and Armenia, emphasising that he lacked ties to any community in Nigeria.

“The fact that the passport of the defendant is with the complainant does not guarantee that he will remain in Nigeria,” Iheanacho remarked.

Justice Nwite, considering the nature and severity of the offense, sided with the prosecution, ruling that, “The applicant will jump bail if bail is
granted to him,” and ordered Gambaryan’s remand in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in ensuring his safety and preventing potential flight.

Following the ruling, the trial was scheduled for accelerated hearing, with the EFCC calling its first witness who is a staff from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

On Thursday, May 16, 2024, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) carried out a successful operation resulting in the arrest of 17 suspected internet fraudsters in Abuja. The operation took place in the early hours at City College, Karu, Abuja.

The suspects were apprehended based on credible intelligence regarding their alleged involvement in internet fraud activities. During the raid, EFCC operatives seized various items, including a car, multiple mobile phones, laptops, and incriminating documents. These items are believed to be connected to their fraudulent activities and will serve as evidence in the ongoing investigation.

The EFCC, committed to combating financial crimes and cyber fraud, has intensified its efforts to dismantle networks of internet fraudsters across the country. This recent operation is part of a broader strategy to address the rising cases of cybercrime, which have become a significant concern for both the government and the public.

The suspects are currently in custody and are undergoing preliminary interrogations. They are expected to face charges related to cybercrime and financial fraud. The EFCC has assured the public that thorough investigations will be conducted to ensure that all individuals involved in these illicit activities are brought to justice.

In a statement, the EFCC spokesperson emphasized the agency’s commitment to protecting the economic interests of the nation by clamping down on internet fraudsters who exploit unsuspecting individuals. The spokesperson also highlighted the importance of public cooperation in providing timely information that can lead to the apprehension of such criminals.

The operation at City College underscores the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to target hotspots for cybercrime activities. By focusing on areas with high incidences of internet fraud, the EFCC aims to create a deterrent effect and reduce the prevalence of these crimes.

The agency has also called on educational institutions to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving their students. This collaborative approach is crucial in identifying and curbing cybercriminal activities before they escalate.