Interpol, US burst South Africa-based Nigerian accused of $12m fraud

James Aliyu, a Nigerian based in South Africa has been arrested for alleged $12 million fraud.

He was arrested in a luxury Sandton Estate and taken to the Randburg Magistrate’s Court.

The suspect is accused of involvement in a romance scam and Business Email compromise (BEC) fraud.

Aliyu, sometimes seen with his girlfriend, gained prominence for lavish spending, luxury lifestyle and holidays at different locations.

He owned expensive vehicles such as Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes C220d and Mercedes-Benz G63 allegedly purchased with proceeds of crime.

Aliyu is believed to be part of an international syndicate, whose members have been convicted in America.

The alleged fraudster had been on the radar of investigators for about six years.

His arrest was the climax of a multi-agency investigation collaboration between Interpol, the US Homeland Security investigations and the US Secret Service.