Nigerian, Oluseun Omole Residing In Texas Convicted In Online Fraud Scheme

[Esther ogunseemi]

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced the conviction of Oluseun Omole, a Nigerian residing in Texas, for his involvement in an elaborate online fraud scheme targeting American citizens.

According to a statement released by the US Attorney’s Office of the Southern District, Omole was found guilty of conspiracy to defraud American citizens, particularly through consumer electronics scams, resulting in losses exceeding $12 million.

Omole faced one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment.

Williams detailed Omole’s role within a criminal syndicate known as “Enterprise,” primarily based in Nigeria, which specialized in various online scams. The group’s tactics ranged from online marketplace fraud to romance scams and fake employment opportunities.

The indictment outlined how Omole and his cohorts deceived victims into believing they were purchasing legitimate consumer electronics or engaging in romantic relationships, only to exploit their trust and affection for financial gain.

Utilizing his business corporation, “Tobylink Impressions,” Omole orchestrated the receipt and redistribution of fraudulently obtained goods, shipping them to associates in Nigeria for profit.

During the trial, Omole pleaded guilty before Judge Katharine Parker, admitting his involvement in the fraudulent activities spanning from February 2018 to March 2023.

Williams emphasized the extensive impact of Omole’s crimes, affecting thousands of victims who believed they were interacting with genuine buyers, lovers, or potential employers. Instead, their possessions were funneled directly to Omole and his associates overseas.

As part of his plea agreement, Omole agreed to pay restitution and forfeit seized assets, including currency and consumer electronics, pending court orders.

Omole is set to be sentenced by US District Judge Jesse Furman on July 30, 2024. Williams reiterated that individuals involved in such fraudulent schemes would face significant prison sentences, emphasizing the severity of the consequences for their actions.