The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on October 31, 2012, arraigned Abdullahi Bello, 24, before Justice Babatunde O. Quadri of the Federal High Court, sitting in Gombe on a five count charge of conspiracy, dealing in and possession of counterfeit Nigerian currency notes. The offence is contrary to sections 6 (2) (b) and 4 (1) of the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provision) Act CAP C35 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
Bello who claims he deals on second hand clothes at the Sabon Main Market in Gombe, resides at Tundun Wada Pantami of the state.
He was arrested by operatives of the EFCC on June 14, 2012, following intelligence report in respect of a syndicate of fraudsters in possession of counterfeit Nigeria Currency notes who go around Gombe metropolis defrauding unsuspecting members of the public. At the point of arrest, 38 pieces of fake N500 (Five hundred naira) notes amounting to N19, 000 were found on him.
Bello confessed he was lured into the business by a neighbour who is presently at large. The accused confessed he had earlier this year been arrested by the Police in Gombe for a similar offence, but was granted bail. He also said he had introduced some friends and associates who are now at large to the fraudulent business.
Abdullahi Bello pleaded guilty to all the charges when he was arraigned, prompting Justice Quadri to adjourn the case till Friday November 2, 2012, for review of facts of the case before conviction. The Judge however ordered the accused to be remanded in Gombe Prison custody.
