Nigerian National Convicted of Laundering Over $2.7 Million from Romance Scams in US

A Nigerian national residing in Georgia was convicted of money laundering involving over $2.7 million obtained from romance scam victims. The scheme targeted elderly individuals between April 2020 and September 2021, with fraudsters posing as romantic partners to extract funds.

Case Overview

The U.S. Department of Justice announced the conviction of a Nigerian national for money laundering involving funds obtained from romance fraud victims. On August 6, 2026, the defendant was found guilty of two counts of conspiracy to commit money laundering and 16 counts of transactional money laundering following an eight-day trial.

How Romance Scams Work

This scheme operated between April 2020 and September 2021, targeting elderly victims online. The scammers would build relationships under false pretenses, posing as friends, business associates, or romantic partners. Once trust was established, they would request money using fabricated reasons such as:

Business equipment purchases
Medical expenses
Injury treatment costs
Claims of imprisonment or legal troubles

Victims were persuaded to send substantial sums from their retirement savings and personal income.

Money Laundering Methods Used

The convicted individual and his co-conspirators employed several tactics to conceal the origin of fraudulently obtained funds:

Victims wired money directly to business accounts associated with the co-defendant
Funds were then disguised as legitimate automobile sales payments
Money was subsequently transferred to overseas accounts in China, Hong Kong, Nigeria, and other locations
Funds were quickly withdrawn or transferred again shortly after receipt

Over 17 months, more than $2.7 million was moved through this network.

Warning Signs of Romance Scams

Protect yourself by recognizing these red flags:

Suspicious Behavioral Patterns:

An online acquaintance rapidly escalates emotional intimacy
Consistently avoids meeting in person or makes excuses to delay
Refuses video calls or provides poor quality images and outdated photos
Gives vague answers about personal details like full name, occupation, or residence
Requests money only after establishing emotional trust

Money Request Characteristics:

Requests for international wire transfers
Pressure to send money urgently
Instructions to keep the arrangement confidential
Repeated requests for additional funds over time

Prevention Tips

If an online contact requests money, consult a trusted family member or friend before responding
Request official identification verification from anyone asking for funds
Avoid sending money to people you have only met online
Insist on meeting in person before considering any financial commitment
Be especially cautious if international transfers are requested

Where to Report

If you suspect you are a victim of romance fraud:

Contact your local police department
Report to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov
Call adult protective services if the victim is elderly
Contact your financial institution immediately

Early reporting can help prevent further losses and protect other potential victims.