Five Nigerians Sentenced to 159 Years in US Prison

 

A total of five Nigerian nationals have received a cumulative prison sentence of 159 years due to their participation in a massive fraud operation amounting to $17 million.

 

This fraudulent activity affected more than 100 victims, including individuals, corporations, and government bodies.

 

The United States Department of Justice made the announcement concerning the convictions after an extensive investigation into an international cybercrime syndicate that exploited romance scams, phishing through business emails, fraud related to unemployment insurance, and false investment schemes, primarily targeting elderly and vulnerable populations.

 

The individuals sentenced include Damilola Kumapayi, 39; Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen, 50; Edgal Iribhogbe, 51; and brothers Chidindu Okeke and Chiagoziem Okeke, both aged 32. This fraudulent enterprise reportedly initiated its operations in January 2017 and persisted for several years.

 

Court records reveal that the group misled victims by establishing fake online romantic connections, intercepting genuine business correspondence, and advertising dubious investment opportunities.

 

After securing funds, the money was routed through various bank accounts before being sent to accomplices and organizations located in Africa and Asia.

 

“The operation led to around $17 million fraudulently acquired from at least 100 individual victims, businesses, and governmental agencies globally,” stated the Justice Department. “The defendants utilized different methods, including online dating sites, to mislead elderly individuals and others.”

 

During the sentencing session, U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant imposed significant prison sentences: Chidindu and Chiagoziem Okeke, along with Edgal Iribhogbe, received 40-year sentences each; Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen was sentenced to 30 years and 5 months, while Kumapayi, who pled guilty, received a sentence of 9 years and 1 month.

 

Officials noted that many victims endured emotional anguish and severe financial hardships, with some losing their entire life savings.