The U.S. Secret Service has seized approximately $1.5 million in cryptocurrency from a Binance account linked to Nigerian national Avwerosuo Omokri, following an investigation into allegations of wire fraud and money laundering.
Investigation Unveils Fraudulent Investment Scheme
The investigation began in March 2024 when a Massachusetts resident reported losing 1.33272285 BTC (Bitcoin) after investing through a Facebook group named “Financial Independence Forum.” The group, administered by an individual using the alias “Tom Sheldon Haley,” promoted a platform called Trade Propel, purportedly offering high returns on cryptocurrency investments. After transferring funds, the victim was unable to withdraw her investment and was asked to pay additional “taxes,” a tactic commonly employed by fraudsters.
Tracing the Illicit Funds
Special Agent Katrina Caulfield of the U.S. Secret Service traced the victim’s Bitcoin through a series of intermediary wallets designed to obscure the funds’ origin. The investigation ultimately linked the cryptocurrency to a Binance account registered to Avwerosuo Omokri, a Nigerian passport holder. Further analysis revealed that multiple victims had transferred funds to wallets associated with Omokri, indicating a broader pattern of fraudulent activity.
Asset Seizure and Legal Proceedings
In October 2024, approximately $1.5 million in various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Avalanche (AVAX), Tether (USDT), Shiba Inu (SHIB), and Pepe (PEPE), were seized from Omokri’s Binance account. The U.S. government has initiated a civil forfeiture action in the District of Massachusetts, seeking to permanently confiscate these assets as proceeds of wire fraud and money laundering.
Implications for Cryptocurrency Platforms
This case underscores the challenges faced by cryptocurrency platforms in preventing illicit activities. It also highlights the importance of regulatory compliance and the need for robust anti-fraud measures within the rapidly evolving digital asset landscape.
Public Awareness and Caution
The U.S. Secret Service advises individuals to exercise caution when approached with investment opportunities, especially those promising high returns with minimal risk. Potential investors are encouraged to conduct thorough due diligence and consult with financial professionals before engaging in cryptocurrency investments.
The investigation into Omokri’s activities is ongoing, and authorities urge any additional victims to come forward.
