A U.S. court has sentenced five Nigerian nationals to a total of 159 years in prison for their roles in a large-scale \$17 million fraud scheme that targeted more than 100 victims, including individuals, businesses, and government agencies.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced the sentencing after a lengthy investigation into a transnational cybercrime network. The group orchestrated various scams—ranging from romance fraud and business email compromise to unemployment insurance fraud and fake investment schemes—primarily preying on elderly and vulnerable victims.
Those sentenced include Damilola Kumapayi, 39; Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen, 50; Edgal Iribhogbe, 51; and twin brothers Chidindu and Chiagoziem Okeke, both aged 32. Authorities said the fraudulent activities began in January 2017 and continued for several years.
According to court documents, the group manipulated victims through fake online relationships, intercepted legitimate business communications, and promoted false investment offers.
Once money was secured, it was funneled through numerous bank accounts before being transferred to co-conspirators and entities across 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.”
At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant handed down hefty prison terms: Chidindu and Chiagoziem Okeke, along with Edgal Iribhogbe, were each sentenced to 40 years; Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen received 30 years and 5 months; while Kumapayi, who entered a guilty plea, was sentenced to 9 years and 1 month.
Authorities said many victims were left emotionally devastated and financially ruined, with some losing their life savings.
