EFCC arraigns manager in Abuja for failure to appoint a compliance desk officer and meet anti-money laundering obligations. Court grants bail

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Wednesday arraigned a company officer, Orbby Vanessa Agwuncha, before Justice O.A. Egwuata of the Federal High Court, Abuja, for alleged failure to appoint a compliance desk officer and develop anti-money laundering measures.

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The EFCC arraigned the defendant on a two-count charge. Prosecutors alleged that she failed to designate a management-level compliance officer and did not establish internal audit systems required under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.

The charges stated that the violations occurred between September and October 2023 while she operated under the business name Bill Interserve Global.

One count alleged that she failed to create programmes to combat money laundering and other illegal acts, contrary to Section 10 (1) (a) of the Act.

The second count accused her of failing to set up an internal audit unit to ensure compliance with statutory preventive measures.

Orbby Vanessa Agwuncha pleaded not guilty after the charges were read. Prosecution counsel J.N. Dogonyaro requested a trial date to prove the case. Defence counsel applied for bail.

Justice Egwuata granted bail in the sum of ₦50 million with two sureties in the same amount.

The court ruled that each surety must be at least on Grade Level 16, own verifiable landed property in Abuja with a Certificate of Occupancy, and be of reputable character.

The judge also ordered the sureties to deposit their travel documents with the court.