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U.S. Court Sentences Tunde Ayeni to 10 Years for Internet Fraud, Orders $20 Million Restitution

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U.S. Court Sentences Tunde Ayeni to 10 Years for Internet Fraud, Orders $20 Million Restitution

U.S. Court Sentences Tunde Ayeni to 10 Years for Internet Fraud, Orders $20 Million Restitution

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Alabama has sentenced Babatunde Ayeni, a Nigerian internet fraudster, to 10 years in prison and ordered him to pay nearly $20 million in restitution to his victims.

Mr. Ayeni pleaded guilty to charges of fraud, leading to his 120-month sentence. According to court filings obtained by Peoples Gazette, Judge Terry Moorer delivered the verdict on October 31.

The court found that Mr. Ayeni, along with his co-conspirators Feyisayo Oyindola Oginsanwo and Yusuf Olasunkanmi Lasisi, was responsible for defrauding multiple individuals and entities of $19,599,969. Although Mr. Ayeni ceased his fraudulent activities in April 2019, he was held accountable for his past actions.

Acknowledging Mr. Ayeni’s financial inability to pay, the court waived interest on the restitution. However, he remains obligated to repay the amount in full alongside his accomplices.

Upon completion of his sentence, the U.S. immigration authorities will decide whether Mr. Ayeni will face deportation or remain in the United States under three years of supervised release with strict conditions.

Mr. Ayeni’s conviction adds to the growing list of Nigerians prosecuted for internet fraud in the United States. High-profile cases include Abidemi Rufai, an associate of Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was recently released, and others like Ray Hushpuppi and Mr. Woodberry, who have faced similar charges.

The U.S. continues to crack down on cybercrime, emphasizing its commitment to protecting citizens and businesses from online fraud.

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INTERPOL Declares 14 Nigerians Wanted for Global Crimes: Human Trafficking, Drug Smuggling, Robbery, and More”

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INTERPOL Declares 14 Nigerians Wanted for Global Crimes: Human Trafficking, Drug Smuggling, Robbery, and More"

INTERPOL Declares 14 Nigerians Wanted for Global Crimes: Human Trafficking, Drug Smuggling, Robbery, and More”

In a shocking international development, the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) has issued Red Notices for 14 Nigerians linked to serious crimes across multiple countries. The wanted individuals face charges ranging from human trafficking to drug smuggling and organized crime, with their alleged actions sending ripples across the global criminal justice community.

INTERPOL’s website revealed the names of 14 Nigerians sought by law enforcement agencies from countries around the world. The charges include disturbing crimes such as the exploitation of minors for prostitution, drug trafficking, robbery, sexual assault, and even criminal conspiracy.

Among the most prominent figures is Felix Omoregie, who stands accused of leading a criminal network in Belgium that exploited minors for prostitution. The Belgian authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Omoregie on charges of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and organized crime. His age is listed as 47 years old, and he remains a key target for international law enforcement.

Jessica Edosomwan, another wanted individual, is under investigation by French authorities for her involvement in human trafficking. According to the INTERPOL notice, Edosomwan is implicated in trafficking multiple victims for sexual exploitation and laundering the proceeds of her crimes through organized gangs.

Other Nigerians are implicated in a wide range of illicit activities across the globe. Uche Egbue and Jude Uzoma are wanted by Argentina and Brazil, respectively, for their alleged roles in large-scale drug trafficking operations. Chinedu Ezeunara faces similar charges in Uruguay, while Benedict Okoro is being sought by Nicaragua for involvement in organized crime.

In Angola, Ikechukwu Obidiozor, Alachi Stanley, and Akachi Vitus are wanted for a chilling series of crimes, including kidnapping, robbery, and the illegal possession of firearms. Meanwhile, Bouhari Salif is wanted by China for drug smuggling, and Timloh Nkem is being sought by Canada for sexual assault and failure to comply with legal requirements.

As the web of international crime continues to unfold, Austine Costa and Okromi Festus are under investigation by Indian authorities for serious charges, including criminal conspiracy, forgery, and cheating.

These startling revelations have sent shockwaves throughout the global law enforcement community, with INTERPOL urging the public to remain vigilant. While the Red Notices serve as a warning to those who may have information on the whereabouts of these criminals, questions have been raised about the level of coordination required to apprehend such dangerous individuals.

Could this be the tip of the iceberg for a larger network of international crime syndicates operating with impunity across borders? As law enforcement agencies work tirelessly to track down these fugitives, one thing is clear: the fight against global crime is far from over.

INTERPOL emphasized that the Red Notices are not international arrest warrants, but rather calls to law enforcement agencies worldwide to assist in the identification, arrest, and extradition of these criminals. Public cooperation is now more critical than ever. Anyone with information is urged to contact local authorities and help bring these criminals to justice.

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10-Year-Old Boy Brutally Murdered by Kidnappers in Plateau State

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10-Year-Old Boy Brutally Murdered by Kidnappers in Plateau State After Partial Ransom Payment

10-Year-Old Boy Brutally Murdered by Kidnappers in Plateau State After Partial Ransom Payment

The Rikkos community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State was thrown into mourning after the tragic murder of 10-year-old Tasi’u Abdullahi by his kidnappers, despite a partial ransom payment made by his family.

Tasi’u was abducted on Monday, December 16, near his family’s residence. According to his uncle, Aliyu Muhammad, the boy was lured away by unidentified individuals in front of their home. Days later, the abductors contacted the family, demanding N50,000 for the child’s feeding and a ransom of N1 million for his release.

Following rounds of negotiations, the family managed to convince the kidnappers to accept N300,000. An initial payment of N150,000 was transferred to the abductors as instructed. However, the tragic turn of events left the family and the community in shock and grief.

Despite the family’s efforts to secure the boy’s freedom, his lifeless body was discovered in a sack near their home on Friday. A woman reportedly called the family the day after the ransom payment to inform them of the boy’s death.

“Upon examining the body of the deceased, we observed that our son had been strangled, with blood coming out of his nose and mouth,” Mr. Muhammad revealed during an emotional briefing with newsmen on Tuesday.

Local authorities confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with the gruesome crime. The suspects are currently in custody as the investigation continues. Security agencies have vowed to bring all those involved in the heinous act to justice.

The incident has sparked outrage and grief within the Rikkos community and beyond. Residents are calling on the government and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to curb the growing menace of kidnappings and ensure the safety of children in the region.

Tasi’u’s family is demanding justice for their son, urging authorities to make an example of the culprits to deter future occurrences. “We need justice for our son. He was innocent and did not deserve such a cruel end,” Mr. Muhammad said, his voice heavy with emotion.

The tragic death of Tasi’u Abdullahi underscores the alarming insecurity in parts of Nigeria, where kidnappings and violent crimes continue to plague communities. As investigations unfold, the Rikkos community hopes for swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace to the area.

 

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AANI EXTENDS YULETIDE GREETINGS AND COMMENDS NIGERIANS FOR THEIR RESILIENCE

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AANI EXTENDS YULETIDE GREETINGS AND COMMENDS NIGERIANS FOR THEIR RESILIENCE

AANI EXTENDS YULETIDE GREETINGS AND COMMENDS NIGERIANS FOR THEIR RESILIENCE

 

On behalf of the National Executive Council and the National Executive Committee of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), I extend heartfelt greetings to all members of the association and the entire Nigerians on the joyous occasion of Christmas and the dawn of a prosperous New Year, 2025. As we celebrate this season of peace, love, and renewal, AANI acknowledges the commendable support, resilience, and perseverance of its members in the collective mission of advancing the progress and unity of our great nation. Your steadfastness and dedication continue to illuminate the values of the association towards a better society, and for this, we express our deepest gratitude.

This period of goodwill also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of our nation despite the numerous challenges we collectively face. Therefore, I would like to extend our profound appreciation to all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora for their patience, understanding, remarkable resilience, and unwavering spirit in the face of the daunting security and socio-economic challenges that have tested our collective strength. Your enduring hope and faith in a brighter tomorrow inspire optimism for a better Nigeria.

I convey our profound gratitude to the valiant men and women of our Armed Forces, Police, and other security agencies for their commitment to safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and residents of this great country. Your dedication, courage, and sacrifices in the face of daunting challenges deserve our utmost respect and appreciation. However, we urge you to remain steadfast and resolute in your noble duty to protect our sovereignty and maintain peace. Please bear in mind that our nation appreciates you all.

AANI calls on the government at all levels to prioritise and enhance the socio-economic well-being of the citizens, addressing the root causes of conflicts and pressing needs of our people and fostering a society built on justice, equity, and inclusiveness. At the same time, we enjoin our vibrant youth to eschew all acts inimical to peace and security and to channel their energy toward constructive endeavours that contribute to national development. Shun acts of violence, extremism, and any behaviour that undermines the fabric of our society. Embrace education, innovation, and entrepreneurship as catalysts for positive change and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of our beloved nation.

As an association committed to the ideals of nation-building, AANI reaffirms its dedication to contributing to Nigeria’s national development through sound advice, policy advocacy, and initiatives that foster a better, more united society. Together, we can overcome our challenges and build a future defined by shared prosperity and harmony.

I would like to reiterate that in this season of reflection and renewal, let us all recommit to the values of love, tolerance, and selflessness that Christmas represents and embrace the New Year with hope and determination. On behalf of the entire Alumni Association of the National Institute, I wish you a joyful Christmas celebration and a fulfilling New Year. May 2025 bring peace, progress, and prosperity to us all, amen.

AANI EXTENDS YULETIDE GREETINGS AND COMMENDS NIGERIANS FOR THEIR RESILIENCE

Thank you.

Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor mni
AANI President
24th December 2024

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