Nigerian Crime Cells' For Victims Of ID Theft
Nigerian Crime Cells
Global Development One Inc
Abstract
This brief analysis will review West African organized crime groups, primarily originating from the country of Nigeria; A brief historic inquiry of the origin of West African Organized crime; along with the current Nigerian crime organizations, and current criminal activity conducted by Nigerian crime cells; in the United States and abroad will be reviewed in this summary.
Nigerian Crime Cells
There is a wave of crime evolving, and this happens to not involve a car jacking at gunpoint in a low-income neighborhood, or a break in at a high-end residential location. It occurs in the way that you are drawn into it, and you are swindled out of your funds. And just as you realize you have been the victim of identity theft or fraud. The criminals have dissolved there cell and moved on to another victim; leaving you with many questions. Along with you bank conducting investigations that primarily leads to a dead end full of false leads. Not only have you become the victim of identity theft but its quite apparent that you may have been scammed by a Nigerian Crime cell ,or also know as the Nigerian Mafia ; a brief investigative inquiry on the Nigerian Mafia with information obtained from; Simcox David. The Social Contract Press Web Site (2007) stated, "The Nigerian mafia is well organized and sophisticated. Investigators have uncovered ''classes'' where earlier Nigerian settlers train newcomers to the United States in the subtle arts of credit cards, banking and Insurance fraud, and keep up to date on new techniques. Police have discovered phony Nigerian companies that exist only to reply to credit inquiries and provide references and employment confirmation. A network of cells of three to fifteen members each have been found. Each cell of ''boys'' usually has an identifiable leader who acts as recruiter and trainer of new members, most of whom are found on college campuses." In addition, it is important to note that Nigerian crime Cells; unlike traditional organized crime, Nigerian organizations make no territorial claims, are highly mobile, and display no clear hierarchy. This is what makes them extremely effective as they disappear like ghosts after the crime has been committed.
These are organized from family, tribal, or religious lines and their operations grow into other illegal activities. The expansion of the organizations has been facilitated in their ability to operate in the security of their home based in Nigeria. Also, the Nigerian Mafia, or organized crime structure is hard to understand, since it's not really a gang at all, it's more a loose affiliation on freelance criminals, who are involved in different scams, using the many different dialect which makes it impossible for the authorities to gain access their fraudulent mishaps.
The Nigerian criminals do not fit the mold of the traditional crime consortium. Although, they do have a structure in place within the networks, they do not seem to be as good as the Costa Nostra or the Mexican organized groups. The Nigerians criminals are flexible, shameless, and not afraid to try anything that brings in money.
History of Nigerian Crime Cells
In the region of West Africa, organized crime groups have apparently not taken on the hierarchical evolution, as those of most organized crime groups though out the world as they are based off the Family type of theoretical operations. Research conducted on the Historic formations of West African Organized Crime with information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "West African Organized Crime the region must take into account the specific historical context and socio-economic conditions that have given rise to it. The report traces the historical development of organized crime, examining the broad socio-economic and political context that has made the region particularly vulnerable. These include the difficult economic circumstances characteristic of the last decades, civil war, state weakness, as well as specific conditions conducive to corrupt practices. The degree to which some forms of organized criminal activity are simply accepted as normal "business" activities by their perpetrators is underscored." In addition, further investigative inquiry on the Historic evolution of Nigerian crime cells with information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005). Stated, " In Nigeria itself, at least one expert considers that elements of organized crime may be identified before 1975 in the form of organized groups involved in falsifying imports in order to transfer funds outside the country, normally in contravention of currency regulations. This specific procedure apparently involved over-invoicing, or importing sub-standard merchandise for distribution to specific Government departments, in return for kickbacks paid to Government officials". (p.5)
Hierarchical Structures of Nigerian Crime Cells
The operation of the Nigerians criminals cells is of global nature, they are worldwide .It is estimated that in 1989, the Nigerians criminal organization cost the U.S $1 billion. New York and Houston are considered the central area of activities, also with existing problems in Atlanta, Chicago, New Orleans, Los Angeles and the Washington-Baltimore areas. In 1998 4.5 tons of fraudulent correspondence was confiscated in Australia, 78,000 such letters in London. 5 million of such letter from the US, UK France, Germany, South Africa Gabon, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Liberia.
An investigative inquiry on the subject of Hierarchal Structures of Nigerian Crime Cells
With researched information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) stated, "Nigerian crime cell structures resemble those for small legal business operations in the region, built as they are on close family and community ties. Although press reports sometimes, refer to "drug barons" or "mafias" in the region there is no evidence of West African drug cartels in the sense of hierarchical, permanent and corporate-like structures." In addition, the Nigerian organizations have three different structures that they may be used.
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->The first is the traditional type of hierarchy. At the top, are the elite and the government officials, who gains from activities that they coordinate and finance. They exploit the poorly executed money laundering laws protecting the income arriving from abroad.
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Secondly, is the clan-type criminal activities based o family, tribal or friendship affinities. These clans operate within a larger network similar to the traditional mafia-like hierarchies in that they provide protection, they have political connections.
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Thirdly, these are the independent, self-contained cells, the freelancers; they run frauds that are usually small in profits.
Nigerian Crime Cells Modus Operandi
The 4-1-9 fraud
Nigeria has developed the largest network of criminal activity. One of the most active and ongoing criminal activity in Nigeria is financial fraud. A investigative inquiry in the history of this fraudulent practice with information cited from; Ultrascan Advanced investigative solutions Web Site (2007) advised, "The Nigerian 419 Advance Fee Fraud came to the attention of the public and regulators during the 1970s, over letters generally targeted at small businesses purporting to come from figures in the Nigerian Government; often the Central Bank, or Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation wanting help disposing of new oil wealth. Those letters were posted in Africa and Europe. In 2002, the United States Department of Justice gained a court order to open every item of mail from Nigeria passing through John F Kennedy airport in New York, with around 70% involving fraud offers. Russell Smith notes that between August and November 1998 Australia Post confiscated 4.5 tones of advance fee correspondence (1.8 million items) that had counterfeit postage. The 1980s and 1990s saw the scammers move from print to fax messaging followed by several explosions of email at the end of the millennium and in 2003, with the scammers spamming recipients in advanced economies primarily those in English-speaking nations. The addressing of that email was indiscriminate, encompassing organizations and personal addresses. Today a mix of all the following approaches is used by the fast growing Nigerian Crime rings based around the globe." In detail, the 4-1-9 fraud swindle is a very popular crime in Africa (Nigerian Scam, 2006). The 4-1-9 fraud is as follows: The fraud begins with a bulk-email or fax of a branch of identical letters to businesspersons, professionals, and other people who tend to be of greater-than-average wealth. There is always a sense of urgency. There is always a request for the individual to travel-to-travel to Nigeria or if the person is naive, they request a wire transfer. The scammer requests blank letterheads and account numbers from the participating party. The scammer always says that there are processing fees or bribes that have to be paid (or else the President of the bank will not release funds). "Last but not least," the scammer requests that the transaction be kept confidential. It is important to note that, the 4-1-9 swindle has killed several of the participants that have traveled to Nigeria to complete the transaction; a few cases have been reported missing (Nigerian Scam, 2006). The fraud may vary from time to time. Another case scenario an individual may receive an e-mail or fax stating that the individual family member left them money and the government has to bribe the government officials to get the money. There are so many ways to this fraud the list is very long. This is a swindle within itself. The scammers are getting the individuals in the fraud under false pretences of thinking that the government officials are being scammed but the individual is the only one being scammed. It is important to note that there are two ways of the outcome in this fraud if wire transfer pays the money:
..[if !supportLists]-->§ ..[endif]-->The money is lost and the individual will never see the money again.
..[if !supportLists]-->§ ..[endif]-->Or in a couple of days the individual will receive a phone call, or letter from the contact stating that something went wrong, and in order to clear it up and receive the funds the individual has to send a little more money.
..[if !supportLists]-->§ ..[endif]-->The 419 fraud has many different methods of operating.
In Summary, the 419 fraud can go on for weeks or months; until the person either runs out of finances, or figures out the swindle. In of 1995 the Unites States Secret Service, an American who was pursuing one of these frauds was found murdered in Lagos and several other individuals have been reported missing (Nigerian Scam, 2006).
The United States Postal Inspection Service has a most wanted list. This list entails many of the other crimes that are very common in Nigeria. There are many cases of criminal conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretences, official corruption, money laundering, social security violation, mail theft and aggravated identity theft. In addition, for further information on this type of fraud a list of other frauds, information may be located:
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Information on Fraud.
..[if !supportLists]-->o ..[endif]-->http://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Mail Fraud Link.
..[if !supportLists]-->o ..[endif]-->https://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/fraud/MailFraudComplaint.htm
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Identity theft report Link.
..[if !supportLists]-->o ..[endif]-->https://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/mailthft/idtheft.htm
Money Laundering, Drug Trafficking and Gunrunning
Nigerian Crime cells have also been involved in the practices of Money Laundering, Gambling, drug trafficking, and Gunrunning. Information reviewed on the Nigerian crime cell involvement in t international drug trafficking with information cited from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "Nigerian syndicates import smaller quantities but enjoy an exceptional range of contacts and an impressive flexibility of organization that enable them to exploit market niches that the major mafias cannot always reach. It is by these means that Nigerian drug traders have managed to gain a major stake in what is, literally, the world's most cutthroat market, yet without them using violence." One of the Nigerian Criminal practices of human trafficking appears to be quite common among West African organized crime syndicates; Information reviewed on the Nigerian crime cell involvement in Human trafficking with information cited from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised Human trafficking in the region takes place in a variety of ways. One form is that of agricultural slavery. In Côte d'Ivoire, it is reported that some of the immigrants from Burkina Faso who work on cocoa plantations in the west of the country are in effect slaves. Nigerian Crime cells are apparently very involved in money laundering activities, especially in the network of the international drug trade. Information reviewed on the Nigerian crime cell involvement in Money Laundering with information cited from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "The laundering of the proceeds of crime in West Africa appears to occur through a wide variety of methods. As noted, there are indications that some of the wealthiest individuals, including those who have gained wealth through massive corruption, such as the late Sani Abacha, may enjoy the complicity of major international companies to move their wealth to bank accounts outside Africa. Some of the world's largest banks are known to have been complicit in such schemes, including the notorious Bank of Credit and Commerce International, which had more branches in Africa than in any other continent, as well as some private banking operations.(p.29) In addition, before amending the Money Laundering Act in 2002 there were many ways to get around the law of money laundering. Money laundering was simply overlooked because the people involved who was supposed to uphold the laws would turn a blind. The money made from the sale of drugs, gambling and gunrunning could not be transported globally therefore it had to be into clean money. The money had to be converted into assets so that it could become legitimate or pass through a financial institution (such as banks, wire transfers). The officials didn't ask the proper questions to inquire how they obtain so much in their possession. Another reason suggested by a law lecturer from Lagos State University is that if officials supported the law and convicted these individuals they would be asking to convict themselves (Benson, 2005). According to Shofowura many of the people affiliated in money laundering are the Government or their cronies (Benson, 2005). Although the law is there it is going to very hard to enforce of the government is contributing to breaking the laws. It is lead by examples, the civilians see the lawmakers breaking the law they are to break the laws as well. Until then the sale of drugs, gambling and gunrunning is going to continue.
Immigration and Citizenship Fraud
Nigerian crime cells have mastered the efforts of penetrating the United States when in comes to Immigration and Citizenship fraud research conducted on the subject of Immigration and Citizenship Fraud with information obtained from; Simcox David. The Social Contract Press Web Site (2007) reflected that, "Immigration and Citizenship Fraud the most common ploy is providing false information to get a visa from the American consul in Nigeria. This may involve the purchase from a corrupt United States. College administrator of Form I-20, essential for admission to the U.S. as a student. Phony bank or employment records are used to prove the financial support required for the visa. Nigerians have frequently used sham marriages to U.S. citizens, claims of birth in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and counterfeit U.S. passports. Since Nigerian passports are issued with little documentary evidence of identity, many Nigerians have two or more passports under different aliases to facilitate fraud here. The Nigerian cells apparently attempt to specialize in crimes that are not readily detectable at the point of their commission. For example, crimes are often non-violet crimes; such as mail fraud, identity theft and drug and arms sales. The Nigerians present themselves as being sophisticated and clever entrepreneurs capitalizing on the needs of those who are not being addressed, or protected by society. Although Nigerian crime groups choose high-tech, non-violent criminal enterprises to engage in they do posses the ability to exert violence when necessary. Nigerian crime cells are functioning in most western countries and all African nations. These cells are most noted for their intricate complex identity theft schemes and import export mail fraud. One captured cell member stated during his trial the reason they chose to engage in high tech fraud and mail schemes is because it does not attract the attention that violence does and the victims are so plentiful, because there is a sucker born every minute.
Thesis Statement
"Is Nigerian Crime cells inadvertently supporting terrorist organizations; by their methods of Money laundering and fraud swindles."
International Terrorism
In summary, with all these previously mentioned criminal activities worldwide, it is evident that the Nigerians criminals are more involve an entrepreneurship of illegal activities, which have been most successful in penetrating the international markets in illegal drugs, and fraudulent activities. Consequently, there is a growing problem both locally and internationally, although, the Nigerian criminal cells are involving many illegal activities politically they are no solid known terrorist activities at this time. However, intense investigation into the Nigerian crime especially in the region of West Africa that harbor and protect terrorist networks, Research on the Illicit Diamond smuggling trade with information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "It has been reported that there is a connection between Al-Qaeda and the illicit diamond trade in West Africa. Agents of Al-Qaeda allegedly systematically bought diamonds from Sierra Leone as a way of laundering money, and there is substantial evidence that diamonds may be used for financing a variety of political or guerrilla movements in the Middle East."(p.27) In addition, it is a possibility that some of these types of activities may fund terrorism now or perhaps in the future. It is an area of investigation that should not be analyzed for possible risks to the United States National Security, and it citizens. For the past fifty years, some of the most aggressive and sophisticated organized crime groups have stemmed from the African continent or the area known as the Middle East. Of this area, the most complex and notorious gangs reign from the Nigerian region of Africa. One of the reasons this area has produced some of the most prolific organized crime groups functioning in the known world today is because of the extreme shortcomings and instability of the Nigerian Government. The Nigerian body politic has proven repeatedly to be both corrupt and unwilling to address the criminal enterprises of their organized crime groups due to tribal loyalties and selfish monetary interests.
The Nigerian Criminal networks flourish apparently for two specific reasons. The first reason is the extreme amounts of training their members have received from external Government entities attempting; to enhance the Nigerian military, for their own interests. After these members receive training and their military time is completed they apply their skills to enhance organized crime groups. The second reason the Nigerian gangs function so well is that the Nigerian Government and the surrounding governments are understaffed and lack the resources to successfully control the gangs' ability to function. The Nigerian gangs often recruit members from clan groups or family tribes. This practice insures cultural cohesiveness and loyalty. The recruitment patterns displayed by the Nigerian organized crime groups are consistent with those patterns displayed by their Asian and Western counterparts. The Nigerian crime families have displayed a consistent pattern of mimicking more established crime families of our time. The Nigerians have adopted a tactic known as cell fragmenting. Scotland Yard officials coined this term; in the 1980's, when they were confronting Nigerian crime groups functioning in their jurisdiction. One reason Scotland Yard identified the Nigerian crime cells, as being difficult to discern was they appeared to blend in and function in the academic and upper class sections of the societies they resided. The fact that the Nigerian cell members generally represented themselves as member of the business or academic communities they lived in presented law enforcement with a difficult task in identifying the crime cells. Another factor that contributed to the cells success was the point that they do not interact with non-Nigerians when engaging in criminal behavior.
In resolve of this study on West African organized crime groups, it is important to note that law enforcement has made tremendous strides with their efforts to offset the Nigerian crimes cells reign of terror over the world. One reason for law enforcements success in the efforts put forth by major nation law enforcement agencies to assist less supported agencies with information and technical assistance. Another technique that has enhanced law enforcement to address the Nigerian cell issues is diplomatic policies and the close working relationship with Nigerian law enforcement officials.
Reference
Abadinsky, H. (2003). "Organized crime." (7th ed.). ." Information obtained
From: Belmont, CA: Thomson/Wadsworth. ISBN: 0534551580
Benson, Dayo (2005)." Money Laundering Act is inconsistent with govt's foreign
Investments drive." Information retrieved on July 22, 2007 from: http://www.vanguardngr.com/articles/2002/business/october05/02102005/b10212005.htm
Most Wanted Scammers 419 Nigerian Advanced Fee Fraud (2007); Retrieved July 22,
2007 from http://www.nextwebsecurity.com/419MostWanted2.asp
Nigerian 4-1-9 Scam (2006. Information retrieved on July 22, 2007 from:
http://www.quatloos.com/scams/nigeria.htm
Simcox David. The Social Contract Press Web Site (2007) "The Nigerian Crime
Network." Online Periodical. The Social Contract (Spring 1993) Information
obtained on July 19, 2007 From: http://www.thesocialcontract.com/cgi-
bin/showarticle.pl?articleID=255
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) " Vienna Transnational Organized
Crime in the West African Region," Printed in Austria January 2005. Information
obtained on July 19, 2007 From: United Nation publication Sales No. E.05.XI.1
ISBN 92-1-148195-3
Ultrascan Advanced investigative solutions Web Site (2007) 419 Advance Fee Fraud The
Worlds Most Successful Scam Information obtained on July 19, 2007 from
http://www.ultrascan.nl/html/419_statistics.html
Global Development One Inc
Abstract
This brief analysis will review West African organized crime groups, primarily originating from the country of Nigeria; A brief historic inquiry of the origin of West African Organized crime; along with the current Nigerian crime organizations, and current criminal activity conducted by Nigerian crime cells; in the United States and abroad will be reviewed in this summary.
Nigerian Crime Cells
There is a wave of crime evolving, and this happens to not involve a car jacking at gunpoint in a low-income neighborhood, or a break in at a high-end residential location. It occurs in the way that you are drawn into it, and you are swindled out of your funds. And just as you realize you have been the victim of identity theft or fraud. The criminals have dissolved there cell and moved on to another victim; leaving you with many questions. Along with you bank conducting investigations that primarily leads to a dead end full of false leads. Not only have you become the victim of identity theft but its quite apparent that you may have been scammed by a Nigerian Crime cell ,or also know as the Nigerian Mafia ; a brief investigative inquiry on the Nigerian Mafia with information obtained from; Simcox David. The Social Contract Press Web Site (2007) stated, "The Nigerian mafia is well organized and sophisticated. Investigators have uncovered ''classes'' where earlier Nigerian settlers train newcomers to the United States in the subtle arts of credit cards, banking and Insurance fraud, and keep up to date on new techniques. Police have discovered phony Nigerian companies that exist only to reply to credit inquiries and provide references and employment confirmation. A network of cells of three to fifteen members each have been found. Each cell of ''boys'' usually has an identifiable leader who acts as recruiter and trainer of new members, most of whom are found on college campuses." In addition, it is important to note that Nigerian crime Cells; unlike traditional organized crime, Nigerian organizations make no territorial claims, are highly mobile, and display no clear hierarchy. This is what makes them extremely effective as they disappear like ghosts after the crime has been committed.
These are organized from family, tribal, or religious lines and their operations grow into other illegal activities. The expansion of the organizations has been facilitated in their ability to operate in the security of their home based in Nigeria. Also, the Nigerian Mafia, or organized crime structure is hard to understand, since it's not really a gang at all, it's more a loose affiliation on freelance criminals, who are involved in different scams, using the many different dialect which makes it impossible for the authorities to gain access their fraudulent mishaps.
The Nigerian criminals do not fit the mold of the traditional crime consortium. Although, they do have a structure in place within the networks, they do not seem to be as good as the Costa Nostra or the Mexican organized groups. The Nigerians criminals are flexible, shameless, and not afraid to try anything that brings in money.
History of Nigerian Crime Cells
In the region of West Africa, organized crime groups have apparently not taken on the hierarchical evolution, as those of most organized crime groups though out the world as they are based off the Family type of theoretical operations. Research conducted on the Historic formations of West African Organized Crime with information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "West African Organized Crime the region must take into account the specific historical context and socio-economic conditions that have given rise to it. The report traces the historical development of organized crime, examining the broad socio-economic and political context that has made the region particularly vulnerable. These include the difficult economic circumstances characteristic of the last decades, civil war, state weakness, as well as specific conditions conducive to corrupt practices. The degree to which some forms of organized criminal activity are simply accepted as normal "business" activities by their perpetrators is underscored." In addition, further investigative inquiry on the Historic evolution of Nigerian crime cells with information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005). Stated, " In Nigeria itself, at least one expert considers that elements of organized crime may be identified before 1975 in the form of organized groups involved in falsifying imports in order to transfer funds outside the country, normally in contravention of currency regulations. This specific procedure apparently involved over-invoicing, or importing sub-standard merchandise for distribution to specific Government departments, in return for kickbacks paid to Government officials". (p.5)
Hierarchical Structures of Nigerian Crime Cells
The operation of the Nigerians criminals cells is of global nature, they are worldwide .It is estimated that in 1989, the Nigerians criminal organization cost the U.S $1 billion. New York and Houston are considered the central area of activities, also with existing problems in Atlanta, Chicago, New Orleans, Los Angeles and the Washington-Baltimore areas. In 1998 4.5 tons of fraudulent correspondence was confiscated in Australia, 78,000 such letters in London. 5 million of such letter from the US, UK France, Germany, South Africa Gabon, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Liberia.
An investigative inquiry on the subject of Hierarchal Structures of Nigerian Crime Cells
With researched information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) stated, "Nigerian crime cell structures resemble those for small legal business operations in the region, built as they are on close family and community ties. Although press reports sometimes, refer to "drug barons" or "mafias" in the region there is no evidence of West African drug cartels in the sense of hierarchical, permanent and corporate-like structures." In addition, the Nigerian organizations have three different structures that they may be used.
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->The first is the traditional type of hierarchy. At the top, are the elite and the government officials, who gains from activities that they coordinate and finance. They exploit the poorly executed money laundering laws protecting the income arriving from abroad.
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Secondly, is the clan-type criminal activities based o family, tribal or friendship affinities. These clans operate within a larger network similar to the traditional mafia-like hierarchies in that they provide protection, they have political connections.
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Thirdly, these are the independent, self-contained cells, the freelancers; they run frauds that are usually small in profits.
Nigerian Crime Cells Modus Operandi
The 4-1-9 fraud
Nigeria has developed the largest network of criminal activity. One of the most active and ongoing criminal activity in Nigeria is financial fraud. A investigative inquiry in the history of this fraudulent practice with information cited from; Ultrascan Advanced investigative solutions Web Site (2007) advised, "The Nigerian 419 Advance Fee Fraud came to the attention of the public and regulators during the 1970s, over letters generally targeted at small businesses purporting to come from figures in the Nigerian Government; often the Central Bank, or Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation wanting help disposing of new oil wealth. Those letters were posted in Africa and Europe. In 2002, the United States Department of Justice gained a court order to open every item of mail from Nigeria passing through John F Kennedy airport in New York, with around 70% involving fraud offers. Russell Smith notes that between August and November 1998 Australia Post confiscated 4.5 tones of advance fee correspondence (1.8 million items) that had counterfeit postage. The 1980s and 1990s saw the scammers move from print to fax messaging followed by several explosions of email at the end of the millennium and in 2003, with the scammers spamming recipients in advanced economies primarily those in English-speaking nations. The addressing of that email was indiscriminate, encompassing organizations and personal addresses. Today a mix of all the following approaches is used by the fast growing Nigerian Crime rings based around the globe." In detail, the 4-1-9 fraud swindle is a very popular crime in Africa (Nigerian Scam, 2006). The 4-1-9 fraud is as follows: The fraud begins with a bulk-email or fax of a branch of identical letters to businesspersons, professionals, and other people who tend to be of greater-than-average wealth. There is always a sense of urgency. There is always a request for the individual to travel-to-travel to Nigeria or if the person is naive, they request a wire transfer. The scammer requests blank letterheads and account numbers from the participating party. The scammer always says that there are processing fees or bribes that have to be paid (or else the President of the bank will not release funds). "Last but not least," the scammer requests that the transaction be kept confidential. It is important to note that, the 4-1-9 swindle has killed several of the participants that have traveled to Nigeria to complete the transaction; a few cases have been reported missing (Nigerian Scam, 2006). The fraud may vary from time to time. Another case scenario an individual may receive an e-mail or fax stating that the individual family member left them money and the government has to bribe the government officials to get the money. There are so many ways to this fraud the list is very long. This is a swindle within itself. The scammers are getting the individuals in the fraud under false pretences of thinking that the government officials are being scammed but the individual is the only one being scammed. It is important to note that there are two ways of the outcome in this fraud if wire transfer pays the money:
..[if !supportLists]-->§ ..[endif]-->The money is lost and the individual will never see the money again.
..[if !supportLists]-->§ ..[endif]-->Or in a couple of days the individual will receive a phone call, or letter from the contact stating that something went wrong, and in order to clear it up and receive the funds the individual has to send a little more money.
..[if !supportLists]-->§ ..[endif]-->The 419 fraud has many different methods of operating.
In Summary, the 419 fraud can go on for weeks or months; until the person either runs out of finances, or figures out the swindle. In of 1995 the Unites States Secret Service, an American who was pursuing one of these frauds was found murdered in Lagos and several other individuals have been reported missing (Nigerian Scam, 2006).
The United States Postal Inspection Service has a most wanted list. This list entails many of the other crimes that are very common in Nigeria. There are many cases of criminal conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretences, official corruption, money laundering, social security violation, mail theft and aggravated identity theft. In addition, for further information on this type of fraud a list of other frauds, information may be located:
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Information on Fraud.
..[if !supportLists]-->o ..[endif]-->http://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Mail Fraud Link.
..[if !supportLists]-->o ..[endif]-->https://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/fraud/MailFraudComplaint.htm
..[if !supportLists]-->· ..[endif]-->Identity theft report Link.
..[if !supportLists]-->o ..[endif]-->https://www.usps.com/postalinspectors/mailthft/idtheft.htm
Money Laundering, Drug Trafficking and Gunrunning
Nigerian Crime cells have also been involved in the practices of Money Laundering, Gambling, drug trafficking, and Gunrunning. Information reviewed on the Nigerian crime cell involvement in t international drug trafficking with information cited from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "Nigerian syndicates import smaller quantities but enjoy an exceptional range of contacts and an impressive flexibility of organization that enable them to exploit market niches that the major mafias cannot always reach. It is by these means that Nigerian drug traders have managed to gain a major stake in what is, literally, the world's most cutthroat market, yet without them using violence." One of the Nigerian Criminal practices of human trafficking appears to be quite common among West African organized crime syndicates; Information reviewed on the Nigerian crime cell involvement in Human trafficking with information cited from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised Human trafficking in the region takes place in a variety of ways. One form is that of agricultural slavery. In Côte d'Ivoire, it is reported that some of the immigrants from Burkina Faso who work on cocoa plantations in the west of the country are in effect slaves. Nigerian Crime cells are apparently very involved in money laundering activities, especially in the network of the international drug trade. Information reviewed on the Nigerian crime cell involvement in Money Laundering with information cited from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "The laundering of the proceeds of crime in West Africa appears to occur through a wide variety of methods. As noted, there are indications that some of the wealthiest individuals, including those who have gained wealth through massive corruption, such as the late Sani Abacha, may enjoy the complicity of major international companies to move their wealth to bank accounts outside Africa. Some of the world's largest banks are known to have been complicit in such schemes, including the notorious Bank of Credit and Commerce International, which had more branches in Africa than in any other continent, as well as some private banking operations.(p.29) In addition, before amending the Money Laundering Act in 2002 there were many ways to get around the law of money laundering. Money laundering was simply overlooked because the people involved who was supposed to uphold the laws would turn a blind. The money made from the sale of drugs, gambling and gunrunning could not be transported globally therefore it had to be into clean money. The money had to be converted into assets so that it could become legitimate or pass through a financial institution (such as banks, wire transfers). The officials didn't ask the proper questions to inquire how they obtain so much in their possession. Another reason suggested by a law lecturer from Lagos State University is that if officials supported the law and convicted these individuals they would be asking to convict themselves (Benson, 2005). According to Shofowura many of the people affiliated in money laundering are the Government or their cronies (Benson, 2005). Although the law is there it is going to very hard to enforce of the government is contributing to breaking the laws. It is lead by examples, the civilians see the lawmakers breaking the law they are to break the laws as well. Until then the sale of drugs, gambling and gunrunning is going to continue.
Immigration and Citizenship Fraud
Nigerian crime cells have mastered the efforts of penetrating the United States when in comes to Immigration and Citizenship fraud research conducted on the subject of Immigration and Citizenship Fraud with information obtained from; Simcox David. The Social Contract Press Web Site (2007) reflected that, "Immigration and Citizenship Fraud the most common ploy is providing false information to get a visa from the American consul in Nigeria. This may involve the purchase from a corrupt United States. College administrator of Form I-20, essential for admission to the U.S. as a student. Phony bank or employment records are used to prove the financial support required for the visa. Nigerians have frequently used sham marriages to U.S. citizens, claims of birth in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and counterfeit U.S. passports. Since Nigerian passports are issued with little documentary evidence of identity, many Nigerians have two or more passports under different aliases to facilitate fraud here. The Nigerian cells apparently attempt to specialize in crimes that are not readily detectable at the point of their commission. For example, crimes are often non-violet crimes; such as mail fraud, identity theft and drug and arms sales. The Nigerians present themselves as being sophisticated and clever entrepreneurs capitalizing on the needs of those who are not being addressed, or protected by society. Although Nigerian crime groups choose high-tech, non-violent criminal enterprises to engage in they do posses the ability to exert violence when necessary. Nigerian crime cells are functioning in most western countries and all African nations. These cells are most noted for their intricate complex identity theft schemes and import export mail fraud. One captured cell member stated during his trial the reason they chose to engage in high tech fraud and mail schemes is because it does not attract the attention that violence does and the victims are so plentiful, because there is a sucker born every minute.
Thesis Statement
"Is Nigerian Crime cells inadvertently supporting terrorist organizations; by their methods of Money laundering and fraud swindles."
International Terrorism
In summary, with all these previously mentioned criminal activities worldwide, it is evident that the Nigerians criminals are more involve an entrepreneurship of illegal activities, which have been most successful in penetrating the international markets in illegal drugs, and fraudulent activities. Consequently, there is a growing problem both locally and internationally, although, the Nigerian criminal cells are involving many illegal activities politically they are no solid known terrorist activities at this time. However, intense investigation into the Nigerian crime especially in the region of West Africa that harbor and protect terrorist networks, Research on the Illicit Diamond smuggling trade with information obtained from; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) advised, "It has been reported that there is a connection between Al-Qaeda and the illicit diamond trade in West Africa. Agents of Al-Qaeda allegedly systematically bought diamonds from Sierra Leone as a way of laundering money, and there is substantial evidence that diamonds may be used for financing a variety of political or guerrilla movements in the Middle East."(p.27) In addition, it is a possibility that some of these types of activities may fund terrorism now or perhaps in the future. It is an area of investigation that should not be analyzed for possible risks to the United States National Security, and it citizens. For the past fifty years, some of the most aggressive and sophisticated organized crime groups have stemmed from the African continent or the area known as the Middle East. Of this area, the most complex and notorious gangs reign from the Nigerian region of Africa. One of the reasons this area has produced some of the most prolific organized crime groups functioning in the known world today is because of the extreme shortcomings and instability of the Nigerian Government. The Nigerian body politic has proven repeatedly to be both corrupt and unwilling to address the criminal enterprises of their organized crime groups due to tribal loyalties and selfish monetary interests.
The Nigerian Criminal networks flourish apparently for two specific reasons. The first reason is the extreme amounts of training their members have received from external Government entities attempting; to enhance the Nigerian military, for their own interests. After these members receive training and their military time is completed they apply their skills to enhance organized crime groups. The second reason the Nigerian gangs function so well is that the Nigerian Government and the surrounding governments are understaffed and lack the resources to successfully control the gangs' ability to function. The Nigerian gangs often recruit members from clan groups or family tribes. This practice insures cultural cohesiveness and loyalty. The recruitment patterns displayed by the Nigerian organized crime groups are consistent with those patterns displayed by their Asian and Western counterparts. The Nigerian crime families have displayed a consistent pattern of mimicking more established crime families of our time. The Nigerians have adopted a tactic known as cell fragmenting. Scotland Yard officials coined this term; in the 1980's, when they were confronting Nigerian crime groups functioning in their jurisdiction. One reason Scotland Yard identified the Nigerian crime cells, as being difficult to discern was they appeared to blend in and function in the academic and upper class sections of the societies they resided. The fact that the Nigerian cell members generally represented themselves as member of the business or academic communities they lived in presented law enforcement with a difficult task in identifying the crime cells. Another factor that contributed to the cells success was the point that they do not interact with non-Nigerians when engaging in criminal behavior.
In resolve of this study on West African organized crime groups, it is important to note that law enforcement has made tremendous strides with their efforts to offset the Nigerian crimes cells reign of terror over the world. One reason for law enforcements success in the efforts put forth by major nation law enforcement agencies to assist less supported agencies with information and technical assistance. Another technique that has enhanced law enforcement to address the Nigerian cell issues is diplomatic policies and the close working relationship with Nigerian law enforcement officials.
Reference
Abadinsky, H. (2003). "Organized crime." (7th ed.). ." Information obtained
From: Belmont, CA: Thomson/Wadsworth. ISBN: 0534551580
Benson, Dayo (2005)." Money Laundering Act is inconsistent with govt's foreign
Investments drive." Information retrieved on July 22, 2007 from: http://www.vanguardngr.com/articles/2002/business/october05/02102005/b10212005.htm
Most Wanted Scammers 419 Nigerian Advanced Fee Fraud (2007); Retrieved July 22,
2007 from http://www.nextwebsecurity.com/419MostWanted2.asp
Nigerian 4-1-9 Scam (2006. Information retrieved on July 22, 2007 from:
http://www.quatloos.com/scams/nigeria.htm
Simcox David. The Social Contract Press Web Site (2007) "The Nigerian Crime
Network." Online Periodical. The Social Contract (Spring 1993) Information
obtained on July 19, 2007 From: http://www.thesocialcontract.com/cgi-
bin/showarticle.pl?articleID=255
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2005) " Vienna Transnational Organized
Crime in the West African Region," Printed in Austria January 2005. Information
obtained on July 19, 2007 From: United Nation publication Sales No. E.05.XI.1
ISBN 92-1-148195-3
Ultrascan Advanced investigative solutions Web Site (2007) 419 Advance Fee Fraud The
Worlds Most Successful Scam Information obtained on July 19, 2007 from
http://www.ultrascan.nl/html/419_statistics.html
Add a Comment
Let's Get Growing
Diamond Member Posts
© 2009 StartUp | Report Spam and Scams |
You need to be a member of StartUp to add comments!
Join this social network