A fraudster from Plumstead, who dodged paying council tax by pretending to be a student and then went on the run, has been jailed.

Emmanuel Okonji, 44, of Waverley Road, used a forged student certificate to falsely claim in 2015 that he was studying full-time at EThames Graduate School in Ilford.

Okonji was summoned to Bexley Magistrates' Court in May last year and his case was referred to the crown court.

He later failed to appear in July 2017 and a warrant was issued, leading to his arrest at Glasgow Airport last month as he attempted to board a flight to Austria.

When questioned the next day at Woolwich Crown Court, he told the judge he was not the man who had made fraudulent claims, nor was he the man who failed to attend court.

But the court heard Okonji had a property in Northfleet and was also claiming benefits there with his Austrian passport as proof of identity.

After a month in custody and a trial date set for March, Okonji pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation.

He was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay costs of £1,200. He was also sentenced to six weeks in prison for failing to attend court.

Cllr Christine Grice, Greenwich Council cabinet member for finance and resources, said: “We will not hesitate to take action against people defrauding the Royal Borough of vital council tax funding for local public services.”

If you suspect someone of committing fraud call 0800 169 6975 or email fraud@royalgreenwich.gov.uk. Any information you give will be treated in confidence.