Manny Ita –
Ten Nigerian nationals have been found guilty in the United States for their involvement in a large-scale international fraud and email hacking operation that defrauded more than 1,000 victims of approximately $215 million.
The convictions were secured in a federal court in Ohio, presided over by Judge James Knepp II, after the defendants pleaded guilty to charges including wire fraud and money laundering.
Among those convicted, five are naturalised U.S. citizens of Nigerian origin, while others are Nigerian nationals residing in the U.S. They were prosecuted alongside 15 American citizens as part of a broader criminal network that operated across 47 U.S. states and 19 countries.
Authorities also identified another Nigerian, Michael Awoyemi, who was convicted following a jury trial, as well as a Ghanaian national linked to the scheme. In total, 25 individuals have been convicted in connection with the operation, commonly referred to as a “business email compromise” scam.
According to prosecutors, the syndicate specialised in hacking into email accounts belonging to individuals, companies, and organisations. After gaining access, they closely monitored communications to understand business relationships and financial practices. They then sent carefully crafted fraudulent emails—often appearing legitimate—to trick victims into transferring money.
Because the attackers had detailed knowledge of their targets’ dealings, the fake payment requests were highly convincing. Once funds were transferred, the group moved the money through a network of fraudulent bank accounts and cash transfer systems to conceal its origin.
Victims of the scheme were spread across several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and others.
Investigators revealed that stolen funds were laundered through various means, including the purchase of cashier’s checks. These checks were reportedly processed through a Chicago-area currency exchange business whose owner is currently facing trial for allegedly facilitating the transactions despite growing risks.
The fraudulent transfers ranged from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. In one instance, a company reportedly transferred $2.7 million into an account controlled by members of the conspiracy.
Law enforcement agencies also seized assets linked to the suspects, including cash, cryptocurrency, luxury watches, and a residential property in Georgia.
Sentencing for the convicted individuals is expected at a later date, pending further legal review based on the specifics of each case.
