A court in the United States (US) has imposed a collective sentence of 159 years in prison on five Nigerians for their participation in an extensive $17 million fraud scheme that affected more than 100 individuals, businesses, and government agencies.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced the convictions following a lengthy investigation into a transnational cybercrime organisation that exploited romance scams, business email compromises, unemployment insurance fraud, and fraudulent investment opportunities to deceive primarily elderly and vulnerable victims.
Naijaonpoint understands that the individuals found guilty include Damilola Kumapayi, 39; Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen, 50; Edgal Iribhogbe, 51; and brothers Chidindu Okeke and Chiagoziem Okeke, both aged 32. The fraudulent activities reportedly commenced in January 2017 and persisted for several years.
As per court records, the group deceived victims through fictitious online relationships, intercepted authentic business communications, and advertised misleading investment proposals.
Once funds were acquired, they were channelled through multiple bank accounts before being sent to co-conspirators and entities located in Africa and Asia.
“The scheme resulted in approximately $17 million fraudulently obtained from at least 100 individual victims, companies, and government entities worldwide,” the Justice Department stated.
“The defendants used various tactics, including online dating platforms, to deceive elderly persons and others.”
During the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant imposed significant prison sentences: Chidindu and Chiagoziem Okeke, together with Edgal Iribhogbe, were each given 40 years; Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen was sentenced to 30 years and 5 months; whereas Kumapayi, who pleaded guilty, received a sentence of 9 years and 1 month.
Officials reported that numerous victims were left emotionally shattered and financially devastated, with some individuals losing their entire life savings.