The Ogun State Police Command has secured the conviction of Samson Okonkwo before His Worship O. P. Mobee at the Magistrate Court in the Ojodu Abiodun Magisterial District, Ogun State, over his involvement in counterfeit electrical cables bearing the Coleman brand.
Arraigned on April 10, 2025, alongside others currently at large under Charge No. MOJ/138C/2025, the convict was tried on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, forgery, unlawful possession, and the fraudulent sale of counterfeit electrical cables belonging to Coleman Technical Industries Limited, following offences committed between January 24 and April 9, 2025, in Akute, Ogun State.
Following the conclusion of the trial on September 24, 2026, the court found Samson Okonkwo guilty after the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including 317 coils of electrical cables with counterfeit Coleman packaging tendered and admitted as exhibits, leading to his sentencing pursuant to Section 3(3)(b) of the Merchandise Marks Act.
This conviction comes at a critical time when the Nigerian market has been heavily polarized by an influx of fake drugs and counterfeit products, underscoring the vital role of law enforcement in curbing illicit trade, protecting legitimate businesses, and safeguarding consumers from hazardous materials such as substandard electrical cables that pose severe risks of electrical faults, fires, and electrocution.
Reacting to the judgment, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, commended the prosecution and investigation teams for their diligent efforts in bringing the matter to a successful legal conclusion.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to investigating counterfeiting offences and pursuing lawful prosecution, CP Ojajuni urged continuous collaboration among regulatory authorities, law enforcement agencies, manufacturers, and the public to identify counterfeit goods, safeguard lives and property, and ensure offenders face the full weight of the law.
