Ghanaian man sentenced in US for online fraud scheme

On November 26, 2024, U.S. District Judge Thomas A. Varlan in Knoxville, Tennessee, handed down a 63-month prison sentence to the 34-year-old.

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A Ghanaian national, Wigbert Bandie, has been sentenced to more than five years in prison for his involvement in an international wire fraud scheme that defrauded elderly victims of over $2 million.

On November 26, 2024, U.S. District Judge Thomas A. Varlan in Knoxville, Tennessee, handed down a 63-month prison sentence to the 34-year-old. 

After serving his prison term, Bandie will face three years of supervised release and is required to repay $2.18 million in restitution to 11 victims.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Bandie and his associates used fake profiles on social media, dating platforms, and other websites to establish online relationships with their victims, many of whom were seniors. 

They exploited these connections to solicit financial assistance under false pretenses or to lure victims into investing in fictitious ventures.

Once a victim was drawn into the scheme, scammers would request urgent financial help or convince them to participate in fraudulent investment opportunities. One victim in East Tennessee lost over $280,000, while others across the country lost varying amounts ranging from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands.

The operation relied on co-conspirators, often referred to as "money mules," who helped transfer the stolen funds from the United States to foreign accounts using wire transfers or mail services.

U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III praised the dedication of law enforcement officials, particularly the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in bringing the perpetrators to justice. The investigation was led by Special Agent Matthew R. Short.

This case highlights the dangers of online scams targeting vulnerable populations and emphasizes the importance of vigilance against such fraudulent schemes. U.S. authorities continue their efforts to protect individuals from romance and investment scams, urging the public to exercise caution in online interactions.