Richard Ginika Izuora
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is tracking some Nigerian-based cyber-criminals with link to Ray Hushpuppi.
The agency describes Hushpuppi as one of Nigeria’s most-wanted hackers, as the instagram celebrity has considerable cases of cyber-crimes against him.
Spokesman of the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, in a statement on Thursday revealed that Hushpuppi, who was recently arrested by the International Police (Interpol); as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), had a case to answer.
Hushpuppi, whose real name is Ramoni Igbalode, was recently nabbed in Dubai. The alleged fraudster, who is known for flaunting exotic cars and other evidences of his massive wealth; was allegedly indicted in a major fraud case which saw the diversion of millions of dollars meant for the purchase of ventilators for COVID-19 patients.
Oyewale added that the Commission was familiar with the grisly details of his money laundering transactions. This, he noted, involved many high-profile cyber criminals facing trial in Nigeria.
“The Commission is engaging with the FBI in tracing victims of his fraudulent transactions and other fraudsters; having direct involvement with him. Local cyber criminals with money laundering networks with him are also being investigated,” he said.
Hushpuppi was arrested on June 10 in United Arab Emirates in connection with a $35 million ventilator scam.
The flamboyant Hushpuppi, a popular Nigerian socialite and philanthropist, was born on June 14mand raised in Lagos state.
However, he relocated to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, UAE where he gained mainstream popularity and is best known for the luxurious lifestyle he flaunts on his social media pages.