MAN FACES TRIAL OVER BUSINESS FRAUD

A 40-year-old man, Chibunna Innocent has been charged by an Ikeja magistrate court on Wednesday after being alledged to have collected a sum of N104,000 on the pretext of supplying 150 cartons of Pepsi to a customer.
The unscrupulous act by Innocent, who resides in Lawani Street, Ejigbo, has in turn paved way for a three-count charge of stealing, conspiracy and fraud issued on him.
According to reports, Innocent alongside another man who is still at large claimed to be staff of the 7up Bottling Company situated in Oregun, Ikeja collected the money from the complainant, Mr. Cyprian Felix in March 2016 at Ile Epo Bus Stop, Agege, the latter expecting the delivery of the cartons of Pepsi as agreed. But to the complainant’s surprise, he is yet to get to get the goods he paid for stating that the duo used the money for their personal use.
During the court proceedings, this act by Innocent was said to have contravened Sections 287, 314 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 201.
According to reports, the Section 287 provides 14 years imprisonment for offenders, while Section 314 stipulates 15 years for obtaining credit by false pretences.
Innocent however entered a ‘not guilty’ plea.
The Magistrate, Mrs G. O. Anifowose, in her ruling, granted the accused bail in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
She said the sureties must be gainfully employed and should also show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government and adjourned the case until June 21 for mention.