Darlington Akporugo, a 47-year-old man, has admitted to wire fraud and conspiracy for romance scam, defrauding victims across the United States, many of whom were elderly. Nicholas J. Ganjei, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas, confirmed that Akporugo pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy in connection with the scheme.
Akporugo, who was arrested just a month before his wedding, played a key role in a long-running online fraud operation, working with accomplices to manipulate victims into transferring money to accounts under his control. Using fake identities, the fraudsters built trust through social media platforms like Facebook, convincing victims to invest in non-existent businesses or provide financial assistance for fabricated emergencies.
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Investigators found that Akporugo directed funds to his own accounts as well as those of his associates, often moving the money overseas. In some cases, he persuaded victims to open lines of credit in his name or even purchase luxury vehicles for his personal use.
Authorities uncovered over 25 victims, primarily retirees and elderly individuals, during the multi-year investigation. The scam led to losses exceeding $3 million.
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