The Acting chairman of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim
Magu says the arrest of Ismaila Mustapha better
known as Mompha and Hamza Koudeih, his
associate, is a landmark achievement.
Mompha was arrested in Abuja on October 18
while Koudeih was arrested in Lagos state on
Tuesday.
Mompha and Koudeih are alleged to have
been involved in internet-related fraud and
money laundering to the tune of N33 billion.
Speaking at an interactive session with
stakeholders at the EFCC’s office in Lagos on
Thursday, Magu said the arrests have confirmed
the agency’s commitment to the anti-graft war.
“The recent arrests of a social media celebrity,
Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha,
and his Lebanese collaborator, Hamza Koudeih,
for their alleged involvement in internet-related
fraud and money laundering remains a landmark
achievement of the EFCC,”
the acting chairman
said.
“I make bold to tell you that these arrests have
further confirmed our commitment to the anti-
graft war, while also sending a red alert to
potential internet fraudsters.
“I am sure you will be greatly shocked to know
that five wristwatches valued at over N60 million
were recovered from the suspected internet
fraudster, Mompha, at the point of arrest.
“Investigation has also revealed that he operates
51 bank accounts in Nigeria with which he
acquires properties in Dubai and had laundered
about N14billion through a firm known as
Ismalob Global Investments Limited.
“His accomplice, Koudeih, also has two firms
namely: THK Services Limited and CHK
properties Limited with which he has allegedly
laundered about N19 billion. Koudeih lives in a
$5million per annum suite at the Eko Atlantic
Pearl Tower, Victoria Island, Lagos.
“They will be charged to court accordingly as
soon as investigation is concluded.”
Magu said from January till date, the EFCC has
made over 300 arrests, secured 207 convictions
and sealed off properties suspected to have been
acquired with the proceeds of crime.
Magu said the EFCC would soon commence
auctioning of recovered items.
According to the EFCC boss, the process has
already started in Port Harcourt where 242 trucks
will be auctioned.
Young-po Reporters 