N6Bn Money Laundering Trial:Mompha Ready For Plea Bargain with EFCC

A special offences court sitting in Ikeja on Thursday  adjourned the money laundering trial of Internet celebrity Ismaila Mustapha also known as Mompha to June 10 for plea bargain agreement with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC

By June 10, 2022, it is expected that both the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and suspected internet fraudster, Ismaila Mustapha also known as Mompha would have reached a final agreement in the proposed plea bargain over alleged N6billion money laundering charge against Mompha.

Justice Mojisola Dada fixed the date in anticipation of the final agreement between the prosecution and the defence team.

At the proceeding on Thursday, Mr Kolawole Salami who held brief for Mr Gboyega Oyewole, SAN,  informed the court that discussions were ongoing on plea bargain with EFCC.

The Counsel prayed the court for extension of time for both parties to reach a conclusion.

He added that a meeting was held at the prosecution’s office around 4:00 p.m. to discuss the terms of the proposal.

This position was confirmed by the EFCC counsel, Mr S.I. Suleiman who also prayed for an adjournment.

Justice Dada gave the date after  the defence and prosecution counsel prayed for extension of time.

It will be recalled that Mompha  was arrested on January 10, 2022 by EFCC, and arraigned him on a 8-count charge bordering on the offences of conspiracy and money laundering to the tune of over N6billion, along with his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited.

The counts include conspiracy to launder money obtained through unlawful activities, and laundering of money obtained through unlawful activities.

He was also charged for retention of proceeds of criminal conduct, use of property derived from unlawful act, possession of document containing false pretences and failure to disclose assets.