Software security

Five Alleged Black Axe Members Extradited to Face US Charges

Nigerian nationals extradited from South Africa appeared in a Trenton federal court on September 14, accused of romance scams and advance-fee fraud.

By Content Team

Sep 15, 2026

ON THIS PAGE

Five alleged leaders of Black Axe's South African operations were extradited to the United States on September 11 to face charges tied to romance scams and advance-fee fraud between 2011 and 2021. All five are Nigerian nationals, aged 38 to 57, arrested in South Africa in 2021.

The men appeared before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton, New Jersey, on September 14. Perry Osagiede, 57, is named in the indictment as founder and zonal head of Black Axe's Cape Town Zone. Prosecutors say the group used fake identities to trick victims into sending money, and sometimes threatened to release sensitive photos when targets refused.

Maximum penalties reach 62 years, but only for the two defendants charged on all four counts. Wire fraud, wire fraud conspiracy, and money laundering conspiracy each carry up to 20 years, and aggravated identity theft adds a mandatory two. The Justice Department stresses that the indictment contains accusations only and that all five are presumed innocent.

Source: CyberScoop

Have questions about protecting your software?

Our escrow experts are standing by to help.

Book a free demo

Want more insights like this?