US ICE Arrests Nigerian Man Over Alleged Identity Theft, Bank Fraud

Los Angeles - 24 May, 2026

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Los Angeles has arrested a Nigerian national identified as Etinosa Osahon over alleged involvement in identity theft, bank fraud, and possession of stolen mail.

According to information released by U.S. authorities, the suspect was apprehended during a multi-agency operation targeting organised financial crimes and identity theft networks operating across several counties in California. The operation was carried out with support from the California Department of Justice, local law enforcement agencies, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), a division of ICE. 

Investigators alleged that the fraud syndicate used stolen identities to apply for store credit cards and financial accounts, which were then used to purchase expensive merchandise without repayment. Authorities said the criminal activities spanned multiple counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Alameda, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties. 

Officials further disclosed that the suspects fraudulently obtained merchandise valued at more than $100,000 from luxury retail outlets and other stores between March and July during the investigation period. Prosecutors reportedly filed multiple felony charges connected to organised retail theft, grand theft, identity theft, bank fraud, and stolen mail offences. 

Speaking on the operation, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Assistant Special Agent in Charge Christopher Bracken praised the collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, stressing that authorities would continue efforts to dismantle fraud and identity theft networks operating in the United States. 

The suspect is currently facing immigration removal proceedings alongside possible criminal prosecution in the United States. Under U.S. law, individuals charged with crimes remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.