Four Nigerians have been sentenced in the UK for their involvement in a major forgery scheme that helped individuals live in the country illegally. The defendants, Abraham Alade Olarotimi Onifade, Abayomi Aderinsoye Shodipo, Nosimot Mojisola Gbadamosi, and Adekunle Kabir, were sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on August 27, 2024, for their roles in creating over 2,000 fraudulent marriage certificates.
Between March 2019 and May 2023, the four individuals were part of an organized crime group that manufactured fake EU Settlement Scheme applications. They provided false Nigerian Customary Marriage Certificates and other fraudulent documents to assist Nigerian nationals in unlawfully remaining in the UK. An investigation by the UK Home Office, along with efforts from Lagos authorities, uncovered the extensive operation, which involved creating thousands of fake documents.
Sentences Imposed
• Abraham Alade Olarotimi Onifade (41) from Gravesend, Kent, and Abayomi Aderinsoye Shodipo (38) from Manchester, were both convicted of conspiracy to facilitate illegal entry into the UK and conspiracy to provide articles used in fraud. Onifade received a six-year prison sentence, while Shodipo was sentenced to five years.
• Nosimot Mojisola Gbadamosi (31) from Bolton, was found guilty of obtaining leave to remain by deception and fraud by false representation. She was sentenced to six years in prison.
• Adekunle Kabir (54) from London, was convicted of possessing an identity document with improper intent but was acquitted of obtaining leave to remain by deception. Kabir was sentenced to nine months in prison.
Paul Moran, Chief Immigration Officer at the Home Office, expressed strong disapproval of the gang’s actions. He stated, “This group was absolutely prolific in their desire to abuse our borders and have rightly been brought to justice. Their sole priority was financial gain. I am delighted that my team was able to intercept their operation, and I hope these convictions will serve as a warning to unscrupulous gangs who exploit people’s desperation to remain in the UK.”
Moran assured that the Home Office will continue to work diligently to secure the UK’s borders and take action against those who exploit vulnerable individuals for financial gain.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to combat immigration fraud and underscores the serious consequences for those involved in such illegal activities.
