Five Nigerians Sentenced to Nearly 160 Years for $17 Million Global Fraud Scheme
A U.S. federal court has sentenced five Nigerian nationals to nearly 160 years in prison for their roles in a transnational fraud scheme that defrauded victims of approximately $17 million. The sentencing, which took place on June 16, 2025, was announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas following a lengthy investigation under Operation Take Back America.
The fraud network targeted over 100 victims, including individuals, corporations, and government entities across the globe. According to court documents, the scheme operated from 2017 until the defendants’ arrests and employed tactics such as online romance scams, business email compromise, and investor and unemployment insurance fraud. Many victims, including elderly individuals, were left financially devastated.
The convicted individuals include Damilola Kumapayi, 39, sentenced to over 9 years; Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen, 50, sentenced to over 30 years; Edgal Iribhogbe, 51; Chidindu Okeke, 32; and Chiagoziem Okeke, 32 — each sentenced to 40 years. The sentences were handed down by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant III in Sherman, Texas.
“This syndicate preyed on the vulnerable and exploited trust through elaborate lies,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “Their actions robbed victims of life savings.” IRS Criminal Investigation also played a significant role in the probe, with Special Agent Christopher J. Altemus Jr. calling the sentences “a testament to the unwavering resolve” of law enforcement.
The operation involved extensive collaboration between several federal agencies, including the FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, among others. Their work uncovered a money laundering network that funneled stolen funds through U.S. banks and transferred proceeds to accounts in Africa and Asia.
Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs condemned the crimes as “despicable” and vowed continued pursuit of international fraudsters. “These convictions send a clear message: the U.S. justice system will hold accountable those who defraud and exploit,” he said.
