An Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos on Friday, sentenced a trader, Adamu Liman, to two years imprisonment with hard labour for receiving stolen jewellery valued at N3.1 million.
The Chief Magistrate, Mrs A.A. Demi-Ajayi, gave the sentence after Liman was found guilty of the crime of receiving stolen property.
“The offence, he is being convicted for, is very prevalent in Lagos State. It has become easy for anyone to steal things and sell them in the market or anywhere without any question.
“He does not appear remorseful and had at a time attempted to abscond from the court. He has dragged the court, taxpayers and society back ever since this matter came up in 2010.
“The first defendant, who is the principal offender, who stole the jewellery has since pleaded guilty and has served his term, while this accused has sought ways to escape justice.
“He cannot expect any empathy from this court. He is, therefore, sentenced to two years imprisonment with hard labour for the offence of receiving stolen property,” she said.
The accused, 25, was arraigned alongside one Ayi Anifa.
The prosecutor, Insp. Chinalu Uwadione had told the court that the offences were committed on July 9, 2010, at No. 6, Bode George St., Ifako, Gbagada.
He alleged that Anifa, a domestic help, with the complainant (name withheld), had stolen her jewellery valued at N3.1 million and had sold it to Liman.
Anifa had since pleaded guilty to the charges of conspiracy and stealing levelled against him, while Liman had pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The offences contravened Sections 390 (9), 427 and 516 (A) (1) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
Source:: PM Newspaper
