Fraud, drugs, money laundering: US lists 24 Nigerians arrested by immigration officers

Twenty-four Nigerians have been named by the United States Department of Homeland Security following arrests by immigration officers over alleged offences including fraud, money laundering, drug related crimes and identity theft.

The names and photographs were published on Sunday as the US government continued its immigration enforcement and deportation campaign.

A report by TheCable said the arrests took place in different locations across the United States, with the suspects linked to a range of alleged offences.

Among those listed are Emmanuel Omowaiye, arrested in Texas over alleged mail fraud; Olusegun Shonekan, arrested in New Jersey over alleged wire fraud; Shedrack Umukoro, listed in a money laundering case in Mississippi; and Justin Akubueze, arrested in Utah over alleged money laundering.

The list also features individuals arrested over alleged drug offences, including Olusegun Olaseni in Indiana and Alameen Adetunji Tokosi in Illinois.

Michael Orji was listed over multiple alleged offences, including weapons violations, identity theft, fraud, false citizenship and money laundering. Other cases involve alleged conspiracy, forgery, assault, larceny, child cruelty and concealment of stolen property.

DHS described the individuals as part of its effort to publicise arrests involving non US citizens with criminal records. The agency said immigration officers were continuing operations aimed at removing individuals it considers priorities for deportation.

But the publication of names and allegations should not be mistaken for proof that every person listed has been convicted. The legal status of each case must be considered individually.

The announcement has placed renewed attention on Nigerians facing criminal allegations and immigration enforcement proceedings in the United States.