By Peace Erewunmi

Two Nigerians and an accomplice have been sentenced to prison in the United Kingdom for orchestrating a sophisticated cryptocurrency fraud that defrauded eight victims of more than £4 million (about ₦7.4 billion) through fake police websites and an elaborate money laundering scheme.

The convicts were identified as Anthony Ikenwe (29), Hamza Bashir (23) and Kevin Nwamma (25). They were convicted at Southwark Crown Court on charges including conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering after investigators established their roles in the large-scale cybercrime operation.

According to the Metropolitan Police, the group impersonated police officers and directed victims to convincing fake police websites, where they were deceived into transferring their cryptocurrency holdings. The stolen digital assets were subsequently moved through a network of accounts to conceal their origin.

Investigators said the fraud targeted cryptocurrency investors, with the gang exploiting victims’ trust in law enforcement to gain access to their digital wallets. Authorities described the operation as highly organised and noted that the stolen funds were laundered through multiple financial channels before the suspects were apprehended.

The convictions were welcomed by UK law enforcement authorities, who said the case demonstrates their determination to combat cybercrime and financial fraud. They also urged the public to verify the authenticity of websites and communications claiming to originate from police or other government agencies before disclosing sensitive information or transferring funds.