LAGOS – A travel agent, Anthony Okede, 43, on Wednesday appeared before a Yaba Magistrates’ Court in Lagos, over allegations of visa procurement fraud.
Okede, who reside at No. 10 Alhaji Rassy Mustapher St., Ladipo, Oshodi, is facing a two-count charge of obtaining by pretext and stealing.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Prosecutor, Insp. Chris Takim, told the court that the offences were committed on April 24 and June 30, 2013 at his residence.
He said that Okede obtained N550, 000 from one Mrs Love Nwaokonko under the pretext of procuring a Qatar residence visa and work permit for her.
Takim said that the accused allegedly absconded with the money, claiming that the government of Qatar had placed an embargo on the procurement of such documentations.
“The accused obtained a total of N550, 000 from the complainant, to help her secure a visa to work and live in Qatar.
“He did not fulfil his part of the agreement and has refused to return the money he collected,” the prosecutor said.
Takim said the offences contravened Sections 285 and 312 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.
The Magistrate, Mrs Bola Folarin-Williams, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 and two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case until July 16 for hearing. (NAN)
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