A 37-year-old man who allegedly used an online dating arrangement to lure a woman to a hotel and steal her iPhone XS Max has been convicted and sentenced to two years and one month imprisonment by a Lagos State Special Offences Mobile Court.
The convict, Jeriq Enejo, was found guilty of breaching the peace and stealing the iPhone XS Max valued at ₦350,000, belonging to one Sopia Ojojo.
According to the prosecution, Enejo invited the complainant to a hotel under the guise of a date after the pair met online.
While at the hotel, he fraudulently stole her phone and later confessed during interrogation that he sold it to an unidentified buyer by the roadside for ₦45,000.
The prosecution counsel, Oluwabusola Omotunde, told the court that the defendant was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on breach of peace and stealing, offences contrary to Sections 168(1)(d) and 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
When the charges were read to him, Enejo pleaded guilty to both counts.
In his judgment, the Presiding Magistrate, Adefioye F.J., held that the defendant had no justification for his actions, noting that he admitted it was the second time he had committed a similar offence.
The court subsequently sentenced him to one month imprisonment for breach of peace and two years imprisonment without the option of a fine for stealing.
The sentences are to run consecutively.
Reacting to the judgment, the Mobile Court Coordinator, Mr Olufemi Adekunle said the conviction demonstrates the state’s resolve to ensure offenders are held accountable through the swift administration of justice.
”This conviction reinforces the Lagos State Government’s zero-tolerance policy against theft and other offences that threaten public safety. The Mobile Court will continue to ensure the speedy dispensation of justice while serving as a deterrent to would-be offenders,” Adekunle said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies, while advising members of the public to take adequate measures to safeguard their personal belongings.
”We encourage residents to be security conscious, especially when meeting unfamiliar persons or engaging in online interactions. Prompt reporting of suspicious activities and taking basic precautions can help prevent crimes of this nature,” Adekunle added.
Lagos Court Convicts Man for Stealing iPhone from Woman Met Online
