A 47-year-old Nigerian national, Darlington Akporugo, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy charges in connection with a sophisticated romance scam that defrauded victims across the United States of over $3 million.
According to U.S. authorities, Akporugo operated from Houston, Texas, working with accomplices to lure victims—many of them elderly—into fake online relationships. Using false identities on social media, he gained their trust and convinced them to send money for fraudulent investments and fabricated personal emergencies. Some victims even opened credit lines in his name or purchased luxury items for him.
The scheme affected over 25 victims from various states, including Illinois and Kentucky. Prosecutors say the funds were often funneled into overseas accounts.
Akporugo, who was residing illegally in the U.S., is set for sentencing on June 6. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.
Authorities revealed that Akporugo, arrested just a month before his wedding, used fake identities to contact victims on social media, build trust, and then manipulate them into sending funds for fictitious business ventures or fabricated personal emergencies
Authorities have warned against the rising trend of online romance scams and urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudsters who prey on vulnerable individuals.
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