PROVIDENCE – Six individuals have been indicted for money laundering schemes tied to Nigerian scammers, who preyed on elderly U.S. citizens with fraud totaling millions of dollars.
According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), the accused used online social media and dating sites to befriend victims before convincing them to part with their money under various pretexts, including false business ventures, sweepstake winnings, fictitious property rental deals, and fraudulent shipping costs.
‘Elder fraud is an international crime,’ said U.S. Attorney Aaron L. Weisman. ‘Federal, state, and local law enforcement is committed to tracking down and holding accountable those who target our most vulnerable populations.’
The FBI and the US Postal Inspection Service led a multi-agency investigation that resulted in the arrest of five suspects: Adetunji Abudu, Olabode Shaba, Dotun Olawale Alonge, Oladipupu Shodipo, and Samson Ikotun. Oluwaseyi Akintola remains at large.
Victims were instructed to wire money or send cash or money orders to addresses controlled by scammers in Rhode Island. The proceeds were allegedly moved through banks and businesses in multiple states before being sent to Nigeria. Ill-gotten gains were also used to purchase vehicles shipped abroad.
Adetunji Abudu, Olabode Shaba, Dotun Olawale Alonge, and Samson Ikotun are charged with money laundering conspiracy and money laundering. Oladipupu Shodipo was arrested this morning and released on unsecured bond. Samson Ikotun is detained in federal custody, awaiting trial on September 9, 2020, while Olabode Shaba remains on home detention, scheduled for arraignment on September 2, 2020.
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Key Facts
- State: Rhode Island
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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