Man Arrested Over N1.3M Visa Scam

A travel agent, Wasiu Arikeuyo, 45, was today brought before an Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ court in Ibadan over an alleged fraud of N1.3 million.

Arikeuyo allegedly perpetrated the act under the pretext of procuring an Australian visa and ticket.

The accused, who resided at No. E7/721B Oremeji, Agugu, Ibadan, is charged for allegedly defrauding his customer of the sum.

Arikeuyo is now facing a two – count charge of obtaining money by false pretences and convention.

The prosecutor, Inspector Sunday Fatola, insisted that Arikeuyo allegedly obtained the sum of N1, 300,000 from one Tosin Olofinbimi, under the pretence of obtaining an Australian visa and ticket for him.

Fatola said Arikeuyo knew same to be false and he was alleged to have converted the same sum of money to his own use, property of Olofinbimi of 5, Adagbada Arola , Apete, Ibadan.

Fatola said, “Olofinbimi had approached Wasiu Arikeuyo on Aug. 20 to process a travel visa and a ticket to Australia for one Mrs Amusan.”

“He said Arikeuyo charged him the sum of N1,300,000 for both visa and ticket which is fully paid for as agreed, and he gave Olofinbimi assurance that it will be ready in seven days.”

“Arikeuyo, however, failed to bring the ticket to enable his client travel as planned.”

He said the offences were committed at Agugu, Ibadan at about 2: 00 p.m. on August 20.

The offences were contrary to Section 383 and punishable under section 390 (9) of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol.II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him in court.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Modina Akanni, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N200, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

Akanni ordered that one of the sureties must have three years tax clearance, while the second surety must be a Civil Servant on grade level 10. She, subsequently adjourned the case until February 13, 2018 for hearing.

Source: Greennews