Alleged $578,000 Money Laundering: Suspect’s Trial Begins Today

The trial of Okorie Sylvernus Sunday, who was arraigned before Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is set to begin today.

Sunday was arraigned on Tuesday on a four-count charge related to alleged money laundering and the importation of counterfeit foreign currency.

The case originates from Okorie’s arrest at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, where Nigerian Customs officials intercepted him with $299,000 in cash, along with counterfeit foreign currencies hidden inside relaxer containers.

Following his arrest, he was handed over to the EFCC by the Lagos Zonal Commander II, Mohammed Ghali, on Friday, March 21.

EFCC counsel Chineye Okezie informed the court that Okorie unlawfully imported five counterfeit $50 bills, totalling $250, with serial numbers MB67951730D, MB93612802A, MB67957416D, MB67957308D, and MB121997428C.

The prosecution further alleged that Okorie knowingly possessed these counterfeit notes and deliberately concealed the $299,000 cash from Customs authorities.

According to Okezie, the alleged offences violate Section 3(5) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, as well as Sections 3(1)(a), 5(1)(b), and 5(2) of the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

Upon hearing the charges, Okorie pleaded not guilty. The prosecution then requested that the court remand him in prison custody.

In response, defence counsel Uche Okoronkwo appealed for his client to remain in EFCC custody instead.

In his ruling, Justice Dipeolu ordered Okorie’s remand and adjourned the case until today for trial to commence.

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