Extradition of Nigerian Nationals for Romance Scam Crimes

Six Nigerian nationals, connected to a criminal network, are set to be extradited to the United States for alleged involvement in online romance scams. South African police announced the extradition, aimed at addressing fraudulent activities that have swindled over $6 million from American women.

These individuals were arrested in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2021. This week, they will be transferred into the custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). They face charges of wire fraud and money laundering.

The men are part of a criminal organization known as the Black Axe, which is recognized by Interpol for its substantial role in cyber-enabled financial fraud worldwide. This network engages in scams involving romance, cryptocurrency, and other fraudulent activities.

Police reports suggest that the group orchestrated scams targeting over 100 women in the U.S., using deceptive online relationships. Victims included retirees and business people, manipulated through sophisticated online interactions.

South African police spokesperson Katlego Mogale confirmed the coordination with Interpol South Africa. The extradition involves transporting them from a correctional facility in Cape Town to Cape Town International Airport, where they’ll be handed to FBI officials and the United States Secret Service.

Recently, Interpol’s operation to dismantle West African organized crime groups resulted in 58 arrests and identified 263 suspects linked to similar scams. The operation aimed at disrupting money laundering and prosecuting offenders.

In a significant raid in Johannesburg, tied to this syndicate’s activities, authorities apprehended 39 individuals, seized $2.67 million, and froze over 250 bank accounts.

Romance scams have increasingly impacted Americans. In 2023, over 64,000 U.S. citizens were deceived, losing more than $1 billion, according to the Federal Trade Commission. This figure doubled from four years prior.

A CBS News investigation highlighted a substantial romance scam operation in Ghana in 2024, revealing tactics targeting Americans due to perceived vulnerability.