St. Louis, MO—Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents arrested Mercy Ojedeji, a Nigerian national, last week following an extensive probe into fraudulent activities.
Authorities linked the 24-year-old to forging academic records to enroll in a University of Missouri chemistry PhD program and orchestrating romance scams targeting unsuspecting individuals.
Investigators revealed Ojedeji fabricated transcripts, resumes, recommendation letters, and an English proficiency certificate to secure admission for Fall 2023.
His deception earned him a tuition waiver worth $49,000, stipends, and additional benefits.
Despite these gains, he skipped classes, ignored assistantship duties, and avoided research commitments, prompting his expulsion in February 2024.
Consequently, immigration authorities revoked his student visa.
Meanwhile, the FBI began investigating Nigerian Mercy Ojedeji after victims of romance scams filed complaints tracing back to his girlfriend’s address.
Agents discovered the location served as a hub for receiving cash and gift cards tied to fraudulent schemes.
During a two-week surveillance period ending January 4, 2024, officials tracked 35 Express Mail packages to the residence.
A subsequent search warrant uncovered 193 parcels delivered via multiple carriers throughout Ojedeji’s relationship with the woman.
On Thursday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office confirmed Ojedeji pleaded guilty to wire fraud and using forged immigration documents in St. Louis’ federal court.
Prosecutors emphasized his schemes aimed to defraud victims of over $1 million, highlighting the case’s gravity.
He now faces up to 20 years in prison, a penalty reflecting the extensive harm caused.
This case underscores the critical need for academic institutions to strengthen verification processes for international applicants.
Additionally, it spotlights law enforcement’s relentless efforts to dismantle fraud networks exploiting vulnerable individuals.
Romance scams, in particular, prey on emotional trust, leaving lasting financial and psychological scars.
For universities, the incident signals urgency in adopting advanced document authentication tools and cross-checking references rigorously.
Similarly, the public must remain cautious when forming online relationships involving monetary requests.
Authorities urge victims to report suspicious activities promptly to curb further exploitation.
Ultimately, Ojedeji’s downfall serves as a stark reminder that systemic vigilance protects both institutional integrity and individual security.
As fraud tactics evolve, collaborative efforts between educators, law enforcement, and communities remain essential to safeguarding justice and trust.