Two Men of Cameroonian Origin Arrested in $10 Million Money Laundering Scheme in USA

Authorities arrested two men of Cameroonian origin living in Southern California on Thursday February 27, 2025, for allegedly orchestrating an intricate money laundering scheme that defrauded over 100 victims, many of whom were older citizens, out of more than $10 million.

Federal authorities took Sylas Nyuydzene Verdzekov, 38, of Chino Hills, and Lovert Che, 44, of Lomita, into custody. Authorities continue to search for a third suspect, Mustapha Nkachiwouo Selly Yamie, 29, of Inglewood. Each defendant confronts one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Authorities will arraign Verdzekov and Che on Thursday afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

Elaborate Scheme Preyed on Older Persons

“As the indictment alleges, these defendants built a sophisticated fraud and money laundering scheme that targeted and preyed on our most vulnerable citizens. They not only stole the victims’ money, but robbed them of their security and trust,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “Let this serve as a clear message: If you defraud members of our community, especially the eld8rly, we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

The indictment details a far-reaching scheme dating back to at least November 2021. Verdzekov, Yamie, and Che, along with their co-conspirators, allegedly created fraudulent identification documents, including passports and driver’s licenses, under fictitious names. They established at least 36 shell companies across California using these fake identities. These companies had no legitimate business operations and solely facilitated their crimes.

To further their illicit operations, the group opened at least 145 bank accounts and 32 private mailboxes throughout Southern California. The suspects allegedly targeted older persons as victims through deceptive phone calls and email pop-ups, posing as law enforcement officials or employees from well-known companies. They claimed that the victims’ bank accounts had been compromised and needed immediate action to secure their funds.

Utilizing fake badges and job titles, the defendants convinced victims to transfer money into fraudulent accounts, falsely assuring them that their assets would remain protected. Victims typically moved funds via electronic bank transfers, money orders, cashier’s checks, or personal checks—only to have them funneled into accounts controlled by the fraudsters.

Fake Real Estate Transactions and Large Cash Withdrawals

In addition to elder fraud schemes, the defendants allegedly posed as legitimate property owners selling real estate. They used fake credentials to deceive victims into wiring payments to fraudulent accounts, further fueling their multi-million-dollar scheme.

Once the illicit funds were deposited, the defendants would rapidly withdraw large sums of cash, using the money for personal expenses, including rental payments. In total, Verdzekov, Yamie, Che, and their co-conspirators laundered at least $10 million through these fraudulent activities.

Law Enforcement’s Warning and Ongoing Investigation

“Financial fraud against our elder population has unfortunately lined the pockets of several transnational criminal organizations,” said HSI Los Angeles Acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “HSI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting our most vulnerable and ensuring the public is informed of the red flag indicators of elder fraud.”

An indictment serves as an allegation, and the law presumes all defendants innocent until the court proves guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Each defendant could receive a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years in federal prison if convicted.

Homeland Security Investigations’ Document Benefit Fraud Task Force, the FBI’s Honolulu Field Office, the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating the case. Authorities encourage potential victims to step forward as the investigation continues.

If you believe you fell victim to this fraud scheme, contact law enforcement officials.

Mimi Mefo Info