Chinese National Charged with N301m Bribery and Theft in Lagos Court

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged a Chinese national, Zhengjia Jin, before a Special Offences Court in Lagos, for alleged bribery and fraud amounting to N301 million. Jin is facing a four-count charge related to the retention of stolen property, bribery, and theft.

During the proceedings, EFCC Counsel, Mr Ahmad Usman, informed the court that the alleged offences took place between March 5 and August 9 in Lagos. He claimed that Jin dishonestly retained a total of N301 million in his bank account, which is associated with Access Bank and belonged to Golden Diamond Industrial Manufacturing Company Ltd.

It was alleged that while working at the company, Jin accepted the funds as kickbacks from vendors directly into his bank account, thereby gaining an undue advantage for himself. This action was said to contravene the company’s employee conditions of service. The Prosecutor further stated that, Jin dishonestly converted N301 million for his personal use.

According to the EFCC, these actions violate Sections 83 and 328 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, as well as Sections 280 (2) and 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Jin pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Defence Counsel, Mr A.C. Ezenduka, informed the court about a bail application. However, the EFCC Counsel stated that the prosecution had not yet been formally served regarding the application.

Justice Rahman Oshodi remanded Jin at Ikoyi Custodial Centre, until the hearing of his bail application.

The case was adjourned to November 22, 2024 for hearing.