Nigerian Man’s $3.3 Million Scam Uncovered Through Online Romance Schemes

Gavel, books, and handcuffs on a table.

Nigerian national Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo has been arrested for orchestrating a romance scam that defrauded unwitting victims of $3.3 million.

At a Glance

  • Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo used the alias “Giovanni” to scam victims on dating sites.
  • He defrauded women, mainly older, widowed, or divorced, of over $3 million.
  • Nwadialo was arrested in Texas, now facing up to 20 years for wire fraud.
  • The scheme highlights the dangers present in online dating.

Twisted Romance Deceit

Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo, a Nigerian national, impersonated a deployed soldier on popular dating platforms to defraud victims of over $3 million. His fabricated persona enabled him to establish connections with unsuspecting victims, whom he targeted with promises of fictitious investment returns, fabricated emergencies, and other deceitful tactics. Nwadialo’s sophisticated scheme spanned several online dating forums, including Match, Zoosk, and Christian Café. By alleging military deployment, he successfully avoided in-person meetings with his victims.

The operation occurred between December 2019 and December 2023, primarily victimizing older, widowed, or divorced women. One victim, identified only as J.C., was manipulated into parting with $2.4 million, believing she was supporting a romantic partner. J.C. reportedly sold her home and liquidated her deceased husband’s retirement account, believing the funds were meant for military fines, funeral costs, and other fictitious needs. Such stories serve as a sobering reminder of the human toll these scams exact on their victims.

The Arrest and Prosecution

Nwadialo was arrested in Texas after traveling from Nigeria and now faces 14 counts of wire fraud, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. His apprehension underscores the vigilance of law enforcement agencies in tackling international romance scams, which are notoriously difficult to prosecute due to their international nature. As U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman stated, “I congratulate investigators who are alert to any opportunity to arrest such defendants and hold them accountable.”

The FBI is currently investigating Nwadialo’s crimes, and the case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sok Jiang. Nwadialo used multiple aliases throughout his scheme, further complicating efforts to track his activities. His arrest at a Texas airport signals a significant victory in the fight against romance scams. As authorities proceed with legal action, they aim to hold Nwadialo accountable for his deceit.

Preventing Future Scams

This case highlights the inherent risks associated with online dating and the pressing need for increased awareness and protective measures. Prospective daters should remain vigilant, particularly when contacted by individuals claiming military affiliations. Careful scrutiny of online interactions can help prevent falling victim to similar scams.

“All too often the defendants in these romance scams are overseas and unreachable by U.S. law enforcement” – U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman

Individuals are encouraged to report suspicious behavior and maintain skepticism when approached by potentially fraudulent profiles. Sharing information about these scams can play a critical role in safeguarding others from the emotional and financial ruin these deceitful operations cause.

Sources:

  1. Romance scammer ‘Giovanni’ poses as deployed soldier on dating sites and dupes women out of millions: Feds
  2. Nigerian national arrested on arrival in U.S. on indictment for multi-million-dollar romance fraud

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