EFCC arraigns Victor Thompson in Uyo over alleged $525,276 fraud involving Americans in fake mining and port investments

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned Victor Ekpeyong Thompson before Justice Maureen Adaobi of the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, over an alleged $525,276 fraud involving foreign investors.

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Victor Ekpeyong Thompson was docked on eight counts bordering on obtaining money by false pretence, allegedly collecting funds from Americans under the guise of facilitating investments in mineral resources and a deep sea port business.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, the alleged victims include Tammy Jensen, Kenneth Blad, Peter Jensen, and other investors.

One of the charges stated that Victor Ekpeyong Thompson, between April 2024 and December 2024, allegedly obtained $213,350 from the investors with intent to defraud, contrary to provisions of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.

Dele Oyewale said Victor Ekpeyong Thompson pleaded not guilty when the charges were read in court.

Following the plea, prosecution counsel Joshua Abolarin requested a trial date and asked the court to remand the defendant in a correctional facility pending the determination of the case.

Defence counsel Savn Daniel made an oral application for bail, which the prosecution opposed.

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Justice Maureen Adaobi adjourned the matter to March 19, 2026, for the determination of bail and commencement of trial, and ordered that Victor Ekpeyong Thompson be remanded in the EFCC detention facility in Uyo.