Plumber docked for allegedly defrauding client

The police on Monday in Abuja arraigned a 34-year-old plumber, Promise Ifeanyi, who allegedly defrauded his client to the tune of N175, 000.

Ifeanyi, a resident of Ajata Village, Kurudu, Abuja, appeared before a Dei-dei Grade 1 Area Court in Shagari Quarters.

He is facing a two-count charge of breach of trust and cheating.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutor, Mr Chinedu Ogada, told the court that one Mr Ben Etuka of Kurudu reported the case at the Galadimawa Police Station on Jan. 30, at 12:50 a.m.

Ogada said that in September 2021, the complainant sought plumbing services from the defendant and put the keys to the store of his house in his custody to allow him access.

He alleged that the complainant gave the defendant N25, 000 as deposit for the plumbing job, adding that the defendant abandoned the job and made away with some items.

Ogada alleged that the defendant made away with kitchen taps and wash hand basin taps, among other items, all valued at N150, 000.

He told the court that during police investigation, the defendant admitted guilt.

According to him, the alleged offences contravene the provisions of Sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code Law.

The Presiding Judge, Mr Sulyman Ola, admitted the defendant to bail in the sum N200, 000 with one surety in like sum.

Ola ordered that the surety must have a means of livelihood and reside within the jurisdiction of the court.

The judge adjourned the case until March 29 for hearing.