The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Port Harcourt Zonal Command, has initiated legal proceedings against David Ikeaghichi for alleged fraudulent activities, including impersonating an Afghanistan soldier and defrauding individuals through deceptive means.

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Presented before Justice S. D. Pam of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Ikeaghichi faces trial on two counts of fraudulent activities, contravening Section 1 (1)(a & b) of the Advance Fee Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

According to the charges, Ikeaghichi, within Port Harcourt’s jurisdiction, purportedly impersonated military personnel from Afghanistan on or about October 31, 2023. Under pretenses, he allegedly obtained $1000 worth of gift cards from a victim identified as Dennis from Singapore, claiming the funds were for investment purposes.

During the court proceedings, Ikeaghichi pleaded “not guilty.” The prosecution, represented by counsel K. Abdulsalam, requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendant to a Correctional Centre. Defense counsel Wilfred Ayerit informed the court of a pending bail application for the defendant.

In response, Justice Pam ordered Ikeaghichi’s remand in Port Harcourt Correctional Centre and scheduled the next hearing for April 24, 2024. The court will consider the bail application and commence the trial proceedings.

The EFCC’s investigation into Ikeaghichi’s fraudulent activities stemmed from intelligence on internet fraud in the Eneka/Elumbu areas of Port Harcourt. It was revealed that Ikeaghichi engaged in various fraudulent schemes, including impersonation, investment, and dating scams.

One notable instance involved Ikeaghichi posing as an Afghan military officer on Instagram to deceive a victim named Denis from Singapore. Utilizing multiple false identities, he allegedly obtained a $1000 gift card from Denis, subsequently converting it to local currency through an online Chinese vendor.

As authorities continue to pursue the case, they emphasize the importance of vigilance and caution in online transactions to mitigate the risks of falling victim to fraudulent schemes.