Radical Lagos-based lawyer, Emefo Etudo, has formally taken over the defence of 98 Chinese language nationals at present standing trial for alleged cybercrime earlier than Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke on the Federal Excessive Court docket in Lagos.
Throughout Friday’s proceedings, M. R. Bashir appeared for the Financial and Monetary Crimes Fee (EFCC), prosecuting on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, whereas Mrs. B. A. Omateno represented a number of the defendants.
Etudo additionally introduced his look for a number of of the defendants, together with He Kun & Anor, Wu Yong An (aka Zenga Niu), Zhao Jin Rong, Chen Yuan (aka Xiao Doa), and Lin Hao Bo.
He knowledgeable the courtroom that he had acquired directions to take over the case from Mrs. Omateno and had duly communicated the event to her.
In response, Justice Aneke acknowledged {that a} change of authorized illustration is permissible, however directed that Etudo should formally notify each the courtroom and the earlier counsel earlier than the courtroom can formally acknowledge him as the brand new defence counsel.
The case was adjourned to June 20, 2025, for additional listening to.
Will probably be recalled that the courtroom had earlier granted the EFCC an interim forfeiture order overlaying 73 properties and 1000’s of digital units allegedly linked to cybercrime and cash laundering involving the defendants.
The forfeited objects embody 1,596 laptops/computer systems, 4,091 cellphones, 350 international SIM playing cards, and three,399 Nigerian SIM playing cards, damaged down as follows: 1,122 MTN, 316 9mobile, 1,277 Airtel, and 684 Glo.
Different objects seized have been 194 routers, 205 sofas, 501 double-step bunks, 754 mattresses, 40 fridges, 10 microwaves, and two whiteboards.
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