LAKE CHARLES, La. (KLFY) — Two men have been arrested in connection with a string of thefts involving stolen EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards across various Louisiana cities, including Lake Charles, Lafayette, Shreveport, Denham Springs, and Kenner. The suspects, Ahmad Ibrahim, 33, and Dieudome Tamekeng, 39, were apprehended by Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s deputies.
Investigation Unfolds
The investigation began on Monday after authorities were alerted to one of the suspects attempting to use a stolen EBT card to make a purchase at a grocery store in Lake Charles. Further investigation revealed that Ibrahim and Tamekeng had been acquiring EBT card information through the use of skimming devices. They would then load the stolen card data onto gift cards to avoid detection while making fraudulent purchases.
Stolen Goods Seized
Authorities discovered that the suspects had purchased 60 five-gallon containers of cooking oil using the stolen EBT numbers. A search warrant executed on their vehicle led to the seizure of numerous items, including receipts, reprogrammed gift cards, a card reader, and a laptop. Additionally, deputies found 24 cases of Red Bull, 10 cases of Monster Energy drinks, and a case of Coca Cola, which were purchased the previous day using stolen EBT card numbers.
Charges and Immigration Alert
Both Ibrahim and Tamekeng were arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Parish Correctional Center. They face charges of unauthorized use of a food stamp card over $1,500 and theft from $1,000 to $5,000. During the investigation, it was discovered that Ibrahim was in the U.S. on an expired work visa, prompting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to be notified. Tamekeng is in the U.S. as an asylum seeker and has a pending court date for his hearing.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities believe that the suspects may not have acted alone and are continuing to investigate the matter. Additional individuals may be involved in the scheme, and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is working to identify any others connected to the fraudulent activities.
As the investigation continues, deputies are urging anyone with information about the thefts to come forward.
