MARION, Ind. (WISH) — A $2,000 online scam that began on Facebook and ended with money transferred to Nigeria has led to charges against two suspects in the U.S. and abroad, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office announced.
The case originated in September 2024 when a Grant County resident reported being scammed by someone posing as a trusted friend on Facebook. The impersonator promoted what appeared to be a legitimate investment opportunity, prompting the victim to send money through PayPal and Apple gift cards.
After receiving the funds, the scammer disappeared, leaving the victim without recourse.
Investigators traced the transactions to Angel Roberts, of Princess Anne, Maryland. According to authorities, Roberts converted the funds into Bitcoin before transferring them to Eniola Faruq Abolanle in Lagos, Nigeria.
Roberts has been charged with money laundering, while Abolanle faces a charge of fraud. Both are Level 6 felonies under Indiana law. Arrest warrants have been issued for both suspects.
The Grant County Sheriff’s Office worked in coordination with the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office in Maryland to uncover the digital money trail and identify those responsible.
“This case shows how scammers use social media to prey on individuals’ trust and steal their money,” said Sheriff Del Garcia. “Thanks to the hard work of our investigators and strong partnerships with other agencies, we were able to follow the money and bring charges.”
Authorities are reminding the public to be cautious when approached with investment offers online, especially from contacts who suddenly change tone or request unusual forms of payment.
