UK Gang Nabbed in $Millions Inheritance Scam Targeting Elderly
Three Nigerians behind a ruthless inheritance fraud preying on vulnerable victims have been locked up for over 21 years. Jonathan Iheanyichukwu Abraham, Emmanuel Samuel, and Jerry Chucks Ozor, all in their 40s, were busted by the National Crime Agency (NCA) in south London in April 2022.
International Crime Spree Uncovered
The sophisticated scam stretched across borders, fleecing victims out of millions. The trio worked with US partners, the Crown Prosecution Service, and the Home Office. With the NCA’s Complex Financial Crime Team leading, they were extradited to the US earlier this year.
Meanwhile, other suspects were arrested in Madrid by Spanish police, with related crackdowns in Portugal. This multinational effort involved the US Department of Justice, the US Postal Inspection Service, and European law enforcement teaming up to dismantle the fraud ring.
The Scam: Fake Inheritances and Hidden Fees
The crooks sent bogus messages claiming the targets had a deceased distant relative leaving them a fortune. Once tricked, victims were pressured into paying fake fees supposedly needed to claim the inheritance — but the money vanished.
Thousands fell for the con, mostly in the US, racking up losses of millions. Gary Cathcart, Head of Financial Investigation at the NCA, said:
“This was a transnational, high harm fraud, where a dispersed network of ruthless criminals worked together to identify and target victims, inflicting life changing damage to vulnerable people. International cooperation is essential to tackle such criminals; by working with our partners, we can disrupt fraud and better protect the public.”
Stay Alert—How to Protect Yourself
With scams like this soaring worldwide, police warn to be wary of unsolicited messages demanding money or personal details. Anyone who suspects fraud should report it immediately:
- In England and Wales: Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040
- In Scotland: Contact Police Scotland on 101
If you’re scammed, notify your bank straight away to start an investigation and secure your accounts.
