South Africa extradites six Nigerians to the United States over an alleged $6.2 million romance scam. The suspects allegedly defrauded more than 100 American women through online relationships.
The suspects were handed over to officials from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Secret Service at Cape Town International Airport on Friday, September 11, following coordination between South African authorities and Interpol.
South Africa Extradites Six Nigerians to US
South African police said the Hawks arrested the six men in Cape Town in 2021 during an operation by the country’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
Authorities allege that the suspects had links to the Black Axe organised crime network. They reportedly built online relationships with victims before obtaining money from them.
The suspects allegedly targeted more than 100 women in the United States, including pensioners and businesspeople. The alleged financial losses exceeded R100 million, estimated at about $6.2 million.
Suspects Face Fraud and Money Laundering Charges in US
US authorities are seeking the six Nigerians over allegations of wire fraud and money laundering. The six Nigerians will now face the US justice system over the allegations.
The South Africa extradites six Nigerians case also highlights stronger cooperation between international law enforcement agencies. The agencies are working to tackle financial crimes that cross borders.
The extradition comes as international agencies step up efforts against organised crime. These efforts include tackling romance scams, investment fraud and other cyber-enabled crimes.
“The suspects face the allegations and await trial in the United States. They will have the opportunity to defend themselves in the US legal process.
The case has drawn attention to the international nature of romance scams, which often involve suspects and victims in different countries. Investigators in several countries have increased cooperation to track suspects, trace financial transactions and bring alleged offenders before the courts. The latest extradition allows US authorities to pursue the case against the six Nigerians under American law.
