Telecom operator docked for N40m theft
A telecom operator, Samson Ukpolo, was yesterday arraigned before an Ebute-Metta chief magistrate’s court over allegation of stealing N40 million.
The accused, who is residing at Plot 3685, Lakeview Estate, 2nd Rainbow, Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos, is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.
According to the prosecutor, Inspector Richard Odigie, told the telecoms operator, a staff of Global Investment and Communication Limited, situated at 5, Charity Road, Oko-Oba, Ifako-Ijaye, Agege, Lagos, and others now at large, committed the alleged offence between January and August 2013.
He said both conspired to steal the said sum belonging to one Mr. Albert Uduma, who is the owner of the company.
The offence was punishable under Sections 409 and 285 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.
The accused counsel, Ola Ogunbiyi, urged the court to grant his client bail in the most liberal term.
The accused, he submitted could not be responsible for the offence of other employees.
Ruling on the accused bail application, Magistrate E. B. Daodu granted the accused bail in the sum of N1 million with two responsible sureties in like sum, adding that one of the sureties must have a landed property within Lagos State, while the second surety must be a Grade Level 15 officer in Lagos State or federal ministry.
She further ordered that the two sureties must deposit N200,000 each to the designated account of the court’s Chief Registrar, and show the court evidence of three years tax payment to Lagos State government.
The matter was adjourned till October 22.