The Lagos Police Command’s Special Fraud Unit is under fire for arresting four online journalists without formal invitation, based on a petition from Guaranty Trust Bank alleging cyber stalking and attempted extortion.

The four journalists were arraigned on a two-count charge before Justice Ayokunle Faji of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos. During the bail application hearing, the prosecuting counsel admitted that the police failed to invite the suspects officially before the arrest and arraignment.

The defendants’ counsel argued that the police’s actions were unlawful, citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

He also pointed out that the amended Cyber Crime Prevention Act does not provide punishment for the alleged offenses.

The prosecuting counsel opposed the bail application, referencing the 2015 Cyber Crime Prevention Act. He claimed that the amended Act does not supersede the older law, and the suspects committed an offense under it.

Justice Ayokunle Faji adjourned the ruling on the bail application to review the amended Cyber Crime Act and determine its validity. This case raises concerns about the police’s handling of cybercrime cases and the need for thorough investigations before making arrests.

The defense counsel emphasized that the suspects are entitled to bail, stressing that the prosecutor had not concluded investigations before rushing to court. He urged the court to grant bail pending the commencement of the trial.

The judge will review the amended Act of 2024 to determine whether it supersedes the 2015 law, impacting the suspects’ bail application.

The judge, Justice Ayokunle Faji, therefore, adjourned the ruling on the bail application to October 14 after the review the 2024 Cyber Crime Act.

The outcome of this case will be closely watched, as it highlights the need for proper procedures in cybercrime cases.

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