A 48-year-old woman, Ann Adeyemo, has been arrested and charged in Lagos State for allegedly conspiring with a company called BTC-Mall to defraud a man, Valentine Chijioke Ene, of N2.775 million under false pretenses. The incident occurred in the Beesam area of Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos.
Details of the Allegation
According to reports from P.M.EXPRESS, Ann Adeyemo allegedly approached the victim, Ene, promising lucrative returns by investing his money in a business transaction. Trusting her, he handed over the amount in question. However, after transferring the money, Ene did not receive any refund or profit as promised. When he requested his money back, Adeyemo refused to comply.
Police Investigation and Charges
Following his complaint, the matter was reported to the Airport Division of the Police. Ann was arrested and interrogated regarding her conduct. During questioning, she admitted to collecting the money but claimed to have invested it in an undisclosed business. When police urged her to refund the amount to resolve the issue, she stated that she had already spent it and had no funds to return.
Consequently, the police charged her before the Ogba Magistrate Court for her alleged offenses. The charges included conspiracy to defraud, obtaining money under false pretenses, and theft. Specifically, the charges read:
- That Ann Adeyemo conspired with BTC-Mall with the intent to defraud Valentine Chijioke Ene between September 3 and September 6, 2024.
- That she defrauded Ene of N2.775 million, knowing the representation to be false.
- That she stole the same amount belonging to Ene.
Despite the charges, Adeyemo pleaded not guilty.
Court Proceedings
The prosecutor, Supol Akeem Raji, requested a court date for hearing to allow the police to present their case against her. The presiding magistrate, Mrs. B.O. Osunsanmi, granted her bail with two sureties who must provide proof of their means of livelihood and tax payments. The addresses of the sureties will also be verified by the court.
The case has been adjourned for mention while Adeyemo remains in custody at the Kirikiri correctional center until her bail conditions are fulfilled.