A 43-year-old Nigerian businessman and social influencer named Femi Quadri has been arrested and is currently being held by the United States government. He is facing serious allegations involving the misuse of the identities of approximately 91 American citizens. These alleged crimes are linked to fraudulent claims for COVID-19 relief and disability benefits.
National Daily gathered that Quadri was taken into custody around 9:30 in the morning on September 20. His arrest came just a few hours before he was supposed to board a one-way flight to Dubai, which is located in the United Arab Emirates.
A criminal complaint was submitted to the United States District Court for the Central District of California on September 19. This document outlined in detail the alleged fraudulent activities that Mr. Quadri is accused of carrying out. Specifically, it reveals how he reportedly stole Personal Identifying Information, or PII, such as Social Security Numbers from around 91 American citizens. He is accused of using this stolen information to submit false claims for various types of benefits, including disability benefits, unemployment payments, and COVID-19 emergency relief funds, all of which took place between the years 2020 and 2024.
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The California Employment Development Department which is often known by its abbreviation EDD plays a crucial role in assisting people who find themselves without jobs or who are living with disabilities. This government agency is tasked with offering financial support to those who qualify, primarily through the distribution of debit cards that contain these benefits. Recently there have been serious allegations against Mr. Quadri who is claimed to have taken advantage of this very system. Reports suggest that he improperly applied for these benefits using the names and personal information of innocent individuals who were completely unaware of his actions.
In an effort to make his fraudulent applications appear legitimate, he allegedly went so far as to forge official documents and certifications from actual medical doctors. How he obtained the names and details of these professionals is still under investigation, but it is believed that he used dishonest and questionable tactics to gain access to this sensitive information. Mr. Quadri’s actions have not only harmed the victims whose identities he allegedly stole but also undermined the integrity of a support system that helps many vulnerable people in California.