Eight Nigerians Face Extradition From SA to US In R279 Million Fraud Case

The Western Cape High Court has dismissed an appeal by six Nigerian nationals seeking to stop their extradition to the United States over a multi-million rand fraud case.

Although eight men initially filed notices of appeal, the court heard that two of them later withdrew from the process.

The ruling clears the way for the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development to make a final decision on whether the group will be handed over to US authorities.

Nigerian Accused to Remain Behind Bars Pending Decision

The eight men — Perry Osagiede, Enorense Izevbigie, Franklyn Edosa Osagiede, Osariemen Eric Clement, Collins Otughwor, Musa Mudashiru, Toriseju Gabriel Otubu and Prince Ibeabuchi Mark — will remain in custody while authorities consider the next step.

Their appeal challenged an earlier ruling delivered on 19 February 2024, which found them liable for extradition.

That decision followed previous rulings handed down on 6 July 2023 and 25 January 2024. The appeal was argued in August and September 2025, with judgment delivered on 7 April 2026.

R279 Million Fraud, Identity Theft and Money Laundering Allegations

According to court papers, the accused are alleged to have been part of an international criminal network operating between 2011 and 2021.

They allegedly carried out schemes involving wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and money laundering, targeting victims in the United States as well as corporate and government entities globally.

Authorities claim the group defrauded victims of at least $17 million (approximately R279.2 million), using false identities and elaborate online personas.

Some of the alleged schemes include “romance scams”, where victims were manipulated into believing they were in relationships and persuaded to send large sums of money.

Funds were allegedly moved through various bank accounts, entities and international channels to conceal their origin.

Court Finds South African Laws Apply to Alleged Crimes

At the centre of the appeal was the principle of double criminality — whether the alleged offences are recognised under both US and South African law.

The court ruled that even though South Africa does not have identical statutory offences such as “wire fraud”, the conduct described would still amount to crimes under local legislation.

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“The fact that SA does not have statutory offences of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft is immaterial,” said Judge Mark Sher and acting judge Ajay Bhoopchand.

The judges found that the alleged actions would constitute fraud, cybercrime-related offences under the Cybercrimes Act, and violations of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.

With the appeal dismissed, the matter now rests with the Justice Minister, who must decide whether the accused will be extradited to stand trial in the United States.

The suspects will remain in custody until that decision is made.