FBI Partners with EFCC to Track Down Nigerian Duo in $13 Million Healthcare Fraud

FBI Seeks EFCC’s Help in Arresting Two Nigerians for $13 Million Healthcare Scam.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has requested the assistance of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in apprehending two Nigerian nationals, Babatunde Shodiya and Yinka Jamiu, accused of orchestrating a $13 million business email scam targeting healthcare providers in Minnesota.

Shodiya, 43, and Jamiu, 31, were indicted by a U.S. grand jury on September 25 for their alleged roles in the scheme, which defrauded several healthcare companies between October 2020 and 2024. According to U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger, the duo created a fake internet domain mimicking Fairview Health, deceiving employees into redirecting payments to fraudulent accounts.

The Scam:

– Fake Domain: (http://fairviewhospitals.org/)
– Targeted Payment System: Optum Pay
– Impersonated Officials: CEO, Executive Vice President, and Business Analyst
– Fraudulent Emails: Phishing emails sent to Fairview Health employees

The EFCC has confirmed that American officials have reached out regarding the suspects, believed to be hiding in Nigeria. An EFCC officer stated, “We have a duty to honor this request in line with our long-standing collaboration with the U.S. in addressing cross-border crimes”.

Shodiya faces additional charges of aggravated identity theft, alongside wire fraud charges. The EFCC’s cooperation is crucial in bringing the suspects to justice and combating international cybercrime.