Woman, 32, arraigned for alleged theft of N71, 000 with violence

A 32-year-old woman, Chinyere Asukwo, who recruits housekeepers for homes, was on Tuesday brought before a Somolu Chief Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, for allegedly obtaining N71,000 with violence from a housekeeper.

The accused, 32, whose address is unknown, is facing a three-count charge of attempted murder, obtaining money under false pretences and stealing.

The prosecutor, Insp. Nurudeen Thomas, told the court that the accused committed the offences at an undisclosed location in Somolu on Dec.10, 2014.

Thomas said the accused stole N71, 000 belonging to a househelp, Glory Okoro, and also threatened to kill her with a knife.

"Okoro confronted the agent for her money after serving her boss at a house not stated after a period of time,but she refused to pay her

"The accused claimed to have used the money to feed her before she got her the job.

"This led to an argument and the accused threatened to kill her with a knife," he said.

Thomas noted that the offences contravened Sections 294, 312 and 383 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Section 294 provides 21 years jail term for stealing with violence, while Section 312 prescribes 15 years for obtaining by false pretences. Section 383 stipulates a two-year jail term for lending testimonial for impersonation. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs B.O. Osunsanmi, in her ruling, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two responsible sureties in like sum. The case was adjourned to July 10 for mention.