EFCC Arraigns Fake Afghan Soldier Over $1,000 Internet Fraud

The Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought charges against David Ikeaghichi before Justice S. D. Pam of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt. Ikeaghichi stands accused of impersonating an Afghanistan soldier and engaging in fraudulent activities to obtain money under false pretenses.

A statement by EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, on Friday said the suspect is facing trial on a two-count charge bordering on Advance Fee Fraud.

Oyewale explained that Ikeaghichi, who reportedly specialized in impersonation, investment and dating scams, falsely presented himself to his victim on Instagram, one Denis from Singapore, as an Afghan military officer.

He said the suspect following up with other pretences, obtained a gift card worth $1,000 from Denis and subsequently sold the $1,000 gift card in local currency via an online Chinese vendor.

The suspect pleaded “not guilty” to the charges and the prosecution counsel, K. Abdulsalam, prayed the court to fix a date for commencement of trial.

Meanwhile, Justice Pam ordered that the defendant be remanded in Port Harcourt Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter to April 24, 2024, for hearing of the bail application and commencement of trial.