FBI hunts Nigerian fugitive, dangles $10,000 bounty

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a fresh manhunt for a Nigerian, Olumide Adebiyi Adediran, accused of masterminding bank and identity fraud schemes in the United States.

The Bureau announced a $10,000 reward for any information leading to his arrest and conviction.

Adediran, 56, is wanted for a string of offences, including bank fraud, identity-document fraud, and credit-card fraud linked to incidents in Illinois dating back to 2001.

Investigators said he operated under several aliases, such as Kevin Olumide Adediran, Eric O. Williams, Maxo Alexandre, Olumide Adkins and Edward N. Anderson. He allegedly cashed bogus checks and used stolen personal data of US citizens to open fraudulent accounts.

He reportedly fled Illinois in December 2001, days before his trial was to begin. A federal judge later issued a warrant on January 2, 2002, for violation of bail conditions.

The FBI believes the fugitive may still have connections in South Florida.

Described as 5 feet 11 inches tall, 200 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, Adediran remains on the FBI’s wanted list.

The Bureau urged anyone with credible leads to contact the nearest FBI office, US embassy or consulate.