Magistrate Adeola Olatunbosun has directed that five men accused of possessing Indian hemp and counterfeit foreign currencies be held in police custody until legal guidance is provided by the Directorate of Public Prosecution.
The individuals, namely Francis Omwukei (26), Kingsley Ude (33), Umar Idris (37), Eyo (27), and Bright Ahamefula (26), were presented before Yaba Magistrates’ Court on a dual charge involving the possession of Indian hemp and imitation foreign money, including Pounds Sterling and US dollars.
Rita Momoh, the prosecutor, informed the court that the suspects were apprehended on August 9, 2023, at White Sand, Ijora, Lagos State. Momoh disclosed that they were caught publicly displaying substances believed to be Indian hemp, potentially causing a disturbance of the peace.
She also highlighted that this act was in violation of Sections 329 and 442 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, carrying specific penalties. According to the charge, the defendants allegedly possessed leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, as well as two bags containing counterfeit US Dollar and Pounds Sterling currency.
Despite the accusations, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. The magistrate decided that without a remand warrant, the suspects would remain in police custody for a week, during which time the police would duplicate the case file and forward it to the DPP for legal counsel.
The case has been postponed until August 23, 2023, for the awaited advice from the DPP.
