Black Axe Leaders Extradited to US for Romance Scams

• •Five leaders of Black Axe extradited to the US for romance scams.
• •The group defrauded over 100 victims, primarily targeting US citizens.
• •Charges include wire fraud and money laundering, with potential sentences of up to 20 years.

Five alleged leaders of the Black Axe cybercriminal organization were extradited from South Africa to the United States on September 11, 2026, to face charges of wire fraud and money laundering. The group is accused of running extensive romance scams targeting over 100 victims in the US from 2011 to 2021, defrauding them of substantial amounts of money. The extradited individuals, all Nigerian nationals, include Perry Osagiede, the founder of the Cape Town chapter. They allegedly used social media and dating sites to manipulate victims into sending money, often threatening to release sensitive photos if they hesitated. The extradition follows a significant international law enforcement effort against Black Axe, which has been linked to various cybercrimes globally. The defendants are expected to make their initial court appearances in Trenton, New Jersey, where they face serious charges that could lead to lengthy prison sentences if convicted.