Baltimore, MD – Wilson Che Fonguh, 41, of Bowie, Maryland, received a 63-month federal prison sentence yesterday for a brazen operation that saw dozens of firearms illegally shipped to Nigeria, some with serial numbers deliberately erased. Judge Richard D. Bennett of the U.S. District Court also slapped Fonguh with a $25,000 fine, following a two-week trial that exposed a sophisticated smuggling ring.
Fonguh wasn’t working alone. He was convicted alongside Eric Fru Nji, 42, of Fort Washington, Maryland, and Wilson Nuyila Tita, 47, of Owings Mills, Maryland. Roger Akem, 52, of Woodbury, Minnesota, received a two-year sentence on May 22nd for his role in the scheme. The investigation, led by the ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, revealed a conspiracy stretching back to at least November 2017.
The evidence presented at trial painted a disturbing picture. Fonguh and his crew weren’t just moving handguns; they were shipping a cache of serious firepower – sniper rifles, SKS assault rifles (some equipped with bayonets), and other rifles. A total of 38 firearms, 28 with obliterated serial numbers, were crammed into a shipping container and sent from the Port of Baltimore in January 2019. The haul also included 44 high-capacity magazines, two rifle scopes, and a staggering 35,000+ rounds of ammunition.
Prosecutors proved the firearms weren’t destined for legitimate sporting purposes. The weapons, ammunition, and related materials were intended for separatists engaged in conflict against the Government of Cameroon. Co-conspirators Tamufor St. Michael, Roger Akem, and others reportedly pooled funds to purchase the equipment, both online and in person. They then meticulously concealed the weapons within duffle bags and heavily wrapped packages inside sealed compressor units before loading them into the shipping container.
Communication was key, and the group attempted to evade detection by utilizing an encrypted messaging app and coded language to discuss their illicit activities. Several other co-conspirators have already pleaded guilty, receiving sentences ranging from two to 46 months in federal prison. One additional co-conspirator is still awaiting sentencing. U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron praised the collaborative effort of HSI, ATF, and DCIS, highlighting the complex nature of the investigation.
This case underscores the growing threat of illegal firearms trafficking and its potential to fuel conflicts abroad. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with assisting agencies like the Department of Commerce and State, are committed to dismantling these networks and holding those responsible accountable. The investigation remains ongoing, and further charges are possible as authorities continue to untangle the full scope of the smuggling operation.
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