A Nigerian national, Saheed Sunday Owolabi, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison in the United States for orchestrating a romance scam that defrauded victims of over $1.5 million.
According to a statement from the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Owolabi was found guilty of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. He reportedly posed as a woman online to build relationships with unsuspecting men, later deceiving them into sending money and sensitive personal information.
Authorities said Owolabi and his accomplices also used victims’ bank accounts to launder funds from other fraudulent activities. In one instance, more than $120,000 was stolen from a victim within the district.
During sentencing, the court determined that Owolabi played a leading role in a sophisticated fraud network that caused significant financial harm. Prosecutors presented evidence, including images from his phone, showing lavish spending of the stolen funds.
The scheme also involved gaining unauthorized access to information related to a home purchase and sending fake emails directing victims to transfer money into accounts controlled by the group.
US Attorney Ellis Boyle emphasized that individuals who defraud American citizens will be prosecuted, regardless of where they operate.