A High Court in Neni, Anambra State, has sentenced Nonso Anunuobi to life in prison after finding him guilty of conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, and attempted murder. The ruling was delivered by Justice G. C. Anulude, following a prolonged legal process.
Anunuobi faced charges under the Criminal Code Act and the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, including other applicable laws.
The judgment, delivered at Anambra State High Court 1, came after years of legal proceedings in which strong evidence was brought against the defendant.
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According to the case with charge number NN/5C/2019, Anunuobi and his gang reportedly ambushed Aloysius Obidinma at Ifitedunu in Dunukofia Local Government Area while he was traveling from his village to Onitsha.
The victim was reportedly beaten, shot, and forced into the gang’s vehicle. They allegedly stole his car, laptop, phones, and other belongings, and demanded a ransom from his family for his release.
The case took a turn when law enforcement authorities traced one of the stolen items and used it to track down and arrest the suspects.
The lead prosecutor, Assistant Chief State Counsel Fabian Okeke, presented strong evidence and told the court that “under the law, a conviction for armed robbery ordinarily attracts a death sentence.”
In defense, the accused’s lawyer appealed to the judge for leniency.
Justice Anulude, after reviewing the case and final arguments, declared the defendant guilty and imposed a life sentence. The judge stated, “While the law stipulates death for armed robbery, the peculiar circumstances and the plea for mercy influenced the decision of the court.
“The court finds the accused guilty as charged, and the cruelty of the acts committed cannot be glossed over.
“This judgment will serve as a strong deterrent to other criminally-minded elements who may wish to terrorise law-abiding citizens in the society.”
Speaking after the verdict, Okeke expressed satisfaction and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between the police, judiciary, and citizens in tackling violent crime.
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