CurrentReport Blog An Ikeja Special Offences Court on Tuesday admitted an iPhone belonging to social media celebrity Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, as evidence in his ongoing trial for alleged N6 billion money laundering.
Mompha, who is reportedly at large, is being prosecuted alongside his company, Ismalob Global Investment Ltd., on an eight-count charge of money laundering.
Forensic Analysis by FBI Reveals Evidence
The sixth prosecution witness, Musa Idi, an operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), testified that the iPhone was subjected to forensic analysis by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). He informed the court that fraudulent documents were retrieved and printed from the device.
Led in evidence by the prosecution, Idi provided further insights into the investigative process that uncovered the incriminating documents.
Defence Objects to iPhone Admission
Mompha’s counsel, Mr. Kolawole Salami, opposed the tendering of the iPhone as an exhibit, arguing that the prosecution failed to provide a proper foundation for its submission, including a required certificate accompanying the evidence.
Justice Mojisola Dada, however, overruled the objection in a short ruling. The judge upheld the prosecution’s argument, noting that the Evidence Act was not violated. The iPhone was admitted as evidence and marked as Exhibit P7.
Adjournment for Continuation of Trial
The case has been adjourned to January 3, 2025, for the continuation of trial.
Background
Mompha, a high-profile social media influencer known for his extravagant lifestyle, has been under investigation by the EFCC for alleged financial crimes. The case involves significant sums of money allegedly laundered through his company.
