JUST IN: EFCC Re-arrest Mompha

Ismaila Mustapha, also known as Mompha, has been rearrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Recall that Mompha is standing trial alongside his company, Ismalob Global Investment Ltd, over alleged cybercrime and money laundering to the tune of N33 billion.

The EFCC re-arrested Mompha on Friday when he went to the anti-graft agency office in Ikoyi, Lagos to reclaim his five wristwatches, one Apple Air pod, one iPhone 8 mobile phone and one pair of sunglasses, seized from him by the agency officials.

Naija News recalls that a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos State had ordered the EFCC to return all that it collected from Mompha.

Ruling, Justice Liman ordered that the antigraft agency should return all items that were seized from the suspect.

According to Liman, the items had been with the EFCC for a period of eight months, adding that since the prosecution has the right to seize a property during an arrest, likewise a duty to approach the court for an interim order, stated that due process must be observed and failure to do this is considered illegal.

“None of these items was listed as exhibit, none of the items was listed on the charge. At this stage, there is nothing on record that the items seized is being investigated on,” said the federal high court judge.

He added, “The retention of the property without compliance with due process violates the requirements of Section 29 of the Act”

“Failure to release the property is illegal. As at today, no charge has been file regards the items. It is too long to withhold the applicant properties”.