Nigerien National in Frederick Faces Federal Charges in Sophisticated Romance Fraud Operation

A federal grand jury in the District of Maryland has indicted a Nigerien national residing in Frederick, Maryland, on multiple charges related to his alleged involvement in a romance fraud scheme. Ali Habou Maman, 58, faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, and wire fraud. The indictment alleges that Maman and his co-conspirators created fictitious identities to establish fake romantic relationships with victims, ultimately defrauding them of money and property.

According to information released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, the alleged scheme began in October 2022. Maman and his associates are accused of working together to defraud individuals for personal financial gain through various fraudulent schemes, including romance, investment, and other deceptive practices. Communications, including those via WhatsApp, reportedly occurred between Maman and his co-conspirators discussing the establishment of U.S. bank accounts to receive funds from unsuspecting victims.

In furtherance of the scheme, Maman reportedly registered DDK Logistics LLC with the Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation on January 5, 2023. He identified himself as the sole authorized person and resident agent, using his Frederick, Maryland, home address as the company’s business address. Subsequently, Maman opened 13 bank accounts for DDK Logistics LLC across multiple financial institutions. He represented himself as the company’s owner and chief executive officer, claiming 100 percent ownership. When questioned by financial institutions, Maman allegedly claimed DDK Logistics LLC was involved in providing computer chips for vehicles and trading automotive parts. However, investigators found that the company lacked significant physical operations, legitimate business activities, substantial revenue, or reported employees.

The indictment details how Maman and his co-conspirators utilized the DDK Logistics LLC bank accounts to receive money from victims. Victims were allegedly induced to part with their funds through communications via email, phone, and messaging applications. The perpetrators, posing as romantic partners, would fabricate personal crises requiring urgent financial assistance. Other ruses, such as false investment and business opportunities, were also reportedly employed to solicit funds. To support these fabricated claims, Maman and his associates allegedly created fictitious documents and websites. Victims were instructed to send money, including personal checks, cashier’s checks, and wire transfers, to Maman through the DDK accounts. After receiving these funds, Maman allegedly wired money from the DDK accounts to third-party bank accounts in several countries, including the United States, China, India, and Indonesia, while retaining a portion as a fee.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative, which aims to combat criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The HSTF integrates personnel from various federal agencies to address evolving threats to public safety and national security.

If convicted, Maman faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for each of the charges he faces. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district judge after considering federal sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland

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