Nigerian Fraud Suspect Extradited to the U.S. from the UK

A 41-year-old Nigerian national, Ehis Lawrence Akhimie, has been extradited from the United Kingdom to the United States to face charges related to an international fraud scheme. According to U.S. authorities, Akhimie was involved in a criminal network that targeted elderly consumers in fraudulent financial scams.

The extradition, coordinated between the U.S., UK, and international law enforcement agencies, highlights ongoing efforts to combat transnational fraud. The U.S. Department of Justice stated that Akhimie and his associates allegedly lured victims with false promises of inheritance payments, convincing them to send money to secure nonexistent funds.

This development follows a growing crackdown on Nigerian-led fraud networks operating abroad. In December 2024, INTERPOL issued Red Notices for 14 Nigerian nationals wanted for crimes including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and financial fraud.

Authorities in the U.S. have vowed to continue pursuing international fraudsters, emphasizing that individuals who exploit vulnerable people for financial gain will face prosecution. Akhimie is expected to appear in a U.S. court in the coming days, where he could face multiple charges related to wire fraud, conspiracy, and identity theft.