Nigerian man nabbed in US for alleged fraud, set for deportation

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested a 49-year-old Nigerian man, Etinosa Osahon, in Los Angeles over alleged criminal offences involving theft, fraud, and identity-related crimes.

In a statement posted on X, ICE Los Angeles confirmed that Osahon was taken into custody on May 21 and is currently being held pending removal (deportation) proceedings.

According to the agency, Osahon has a criminal record that includes alleged offences such as theft, possession of stolen mail, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft.

“ICE Los Angeles arrested Etinosa Osahon, 49, of Nigeria, May 21,” the agency stated. “Osahon’s criminal record includes stealing and being in possession of stolen mail, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. He is in ICE custody pending removal.”

Authorities said the arrest forms part of ongoing enforcement operations targeting foreign nationals with criminal records residing illegally or remaining in the United States following conviction.

The case adds to a growing list of recent ICE enforcement actions involving Nigerian nationals. In April, the agency also arrested another Nigerian, Olatunde Olusanjo, on allegations related to sexual offences. He was detained by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) unit and placed in custody pending deportation proceedings.

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US immigration authorities have intensified enforcement activities in recent months, focusing on individuals with alleged criminal histories linked to fraud, financial crimes, and other offences.

Officials say such operations are aimed at strengthening public safety and ensuring compliance with US immigration laws, particularly in cases involving non-citizens with pending or confirmed criminal records.

The latest arrest comes amid broader immigration enforcement efforts across the United States, with increased scrutiny of foreign nationals with prior convictions as part of ongoing federal immigration policy implementation.