Nigerian Arrested in U.S. Over Major Fraud Scheme
A 33-year-old Nigerian man, Edikan Adiakpan, has been arrested in the United States for allegedly orchestrating a massive business email compromise (BEC) and money laundering scheme that defrauded several organizations across eight U.S. states.
The fraud, which investigators say began in 2021, targeted various institutions including a California-based medical research center dedicated to developing treatments for U.S. military veterans.
How the Scam Worked
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Adiakpan and his co-conspirators sent spoofed emails that impersonated legitimate vendors or business partners. These fraudulent communications tricked victims into wiring large sums of money into accounts controlled by the syndicate.
The funds were then funneled through multiple bank accounts, converted into cashier’s checks, and partially kept by Adiakpan as “commission.”
Other Suspects Involved
Another Nigerian national, Ayobami Omoniyi, 26, has also been indicted in connection with the same scheme. Omoniyi has already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and is awaiting sentencing.
Charges & Possible Sentencing
Adiakpan faces the following federal charges:
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud – up to 20 years in prison
Conspiracy to commit money laundering – up to 20 years in prison
Conspiracy to operate an illegal money-transmitting business – up to 5 years
Each count also carries a fine of up to $250,000.
Ongoing Investigation
The case is being handled by the FBI Houston Division and IRS Criminal Investigation, with U.S. attorneys Belinda Beek and Christine Lu prosecuting. Adiakpan made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter Bray in Houston, Texas.
If convicted on all charges, he could face 45 years in prison and $750,000 in fines.
What This Means
The arrest of Edikan Adiakpan highlights ongoing concerns around cyber fraud and international money laundering operations. U.S. authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to tracking down and prosecuting cybercriminals, regardless of where they originate.
