The Ogun State Police Command has secured the conviction of Samson Okonkwo for offences involving counterfeit electrical cables bearing the Coleman brand.
The judgment, according to a statement by the spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, on Monday, was delivered on September 24, 2026, by Magistrate O. P. Mobee at the Magistrate Court in the Ojodu Abiodun Magisterial District of Ogun State.
Babaseyi said Okonkwo and other defendants, who are currently at large, were arraigned on April 10, 2025, on four counts: conspiracy, forgery, unlawful possession and fraudulent sale of counterfeit electrical cables belonging to Coleman Technical Industries Limited.
He explained, “Okonkwo and other defendants currently at large were arraigned on 10 April 2025 in Charge No. MOJ/138C/2025 on four counts bordering on conspiracy, forgery, unlawful possession and fraudulent sale of counterfeit electrical cables belonging to Coleman Technical Industries Limited. The alleged offences were committed between 24 January and 9 April 2025 in Akute, Ogun State.
“At the conclusion of the trial, the court found Samson Okonkwo guilty. The prosecution presented evidence in support of the charges, while 317 coils of electrical cables bearing allegedly counterfeit Coleman packaging were tendered and admitted as exhibits. The court convicted and sentenced him pursuant to Section 3(3)(b) of the Merchandise Marks Act.
“The conviction underscores the importance of law enforcement in combating counterfeiting, protecting legitimate businesses and safeguarding consumers against potentially hazardous electrical products. Substandard electrical cables can increase the risk of electrical faults, fires and electrocution, posing serious threats to lives and property.”
In response to the judgment, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the investigators and the prosecution team for their efforts in bringing the case to a conclusion.
He reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to investigate suspected counterfeiting offences and pursue lawful prosecution where sufficient evidence exists.
CP Ojajuni also called for sustained cooperation among law enforcement agencies, manufacturers, regulatory authorities and members of the public to identify counterfeit products, protect consumers and ensure that suspected offenders are brought before the appropriate courts.
The command urged the public to exercise caution when purchasing electrical products and to report suspected counterfeit goods through appropriate channels. The Command remains committed to protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law and combating economic crime across the state.