Money laundering: Mompha’s absence stalls court proceedings again

The absence of social media celebrity, Ismaila Mustapha popularly known as Mompha, again on Thursday has stalled his alleged N6 billion money laundering trial before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Ikeja Special Offences Court.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission charged Mustapha and his company, Ismalob Global Investment Ltd with eight counts bordering on money laundering, conspiracy to launder money obtained through unlawful activities, and laundering of funds obtained through unlawful activities.
Other charges include retention of proceeds of criminal conduct, use of property derived from an unlawful act, possession of a document containing pretenses, and failure to disclose assets.
Justice Dada had on June 22 issued a bench warrant for Mustapha’s arrest following his absence in court.
Dada also revoked the bail that was granted to the defendant.
The social media celebrity was absent in court on June 16.
EFCC accused the defendant on June 10 of flouting the court’s order by traveling to Dubai with a new international passport.
During Thursday’s court sitting, the EFCC counsel, Samuel Daji, told the court that the commission was still in the process of re-arresting the defendant.
Daji prayed the court to further adjourn the case.
He said, “My lord, we are still making genuine efforts to re-arrest the defendant wherever and whenever he is found.
“We humbly ask for another date from the court.”
The defense counsel, Kolawole Salami, also prayed to the court for an extension of time to bring back the defendant to court.
“My lord, we are working with the prosecution to ensure that the defendant is brought back to court.
“We confirm with the prosecution and also plead for another date,” Salami said.
However, Justice Dada adjourned the case until September 21, 2022, for further report.