MINNEAPOLIS – In a shocking turn of events, Ahmednaji Maalim Aftin Sheikh, 28, a Kenyan national, has been indicted for Conspiracy to Commit International Money Laundering in the colossal Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.
Sheikh is the 74th defendant charged in what is now recognized as the largest Covid fraud scheme in the country. “The outrage of my fellow Minnesotans at seeing money meant for hungry children converted into fortunes abroad knows no bounds,” Thompson said. “This indictment is a stark reminder of the breadth of fraud that has infiltrated our state, but it also serves as a call to action. We must unite and demand an end to such crimes now.”
Sheikh played a pivotal role in laundering and sending millions of dollars abroad for his brother, Abdiaziz Farah, the leader of the “Empire” group. Last month, Abdiaziz Farah was sentenced to 28 years in prison for his part in the fraud scheme. He is also awaiting sentencing on juror bribery charges.
The scheme defrauded over $40 million from federal child nutrition programs intended to provide meals for children in need. Sheikh, a citizen and resident of Kenya, helped Abdiaziz Farah by investing the proceeds in Kenyan real estate and bulk cash smuggling. They exchanged texts detailing their wealth and sent photos of cash transfers.
For instance, on July 3, 2021, Abdiaziz Farah texted Sheikh, “You are gonna be the richest 25-year-old InshaAllah.” And on December 27, 2021, Sheikh reported receiving $1,287,000 from his brother. The indictment outlines a series of transactions and investments in Kenyan real estate, including a 20 percent stake in a company and purchases in Nairobi and Mandera Town.
As Thompson stated, “We cannot afford to shrink from this crisis. We must come together as Minnesotans to protect our children and state’s future.”
Related Federal Cases
- Five Bribed Juror in Feeding Our Future Case · Minnesota
- Bryan Reichel Convicted in $25M PureChoice Fraud Scheme · Minnesota
- Hammerschmidts Sentenced in $2M Tax Fraud Scheme · Minnesota
- David Blaine Welliver Sentenced in $1.7M Fraud Scheme · Minnesota
- Kirschman, Bloom Indicted in $75K Public Assistance Fraud · Minnesota
Key Facts
- State: Minnesota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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