The $20 million bank fraud allegations against Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema have been supplemented by new charges in the U.S. authorities’ stepped-up case against him. For five years, the Nigerian businessman has avoided going to trial in an American court.
As the founder and chairman of Air Peace, Onyema is currently charged with obstructing justice in a superseding indictment. The charges state that he purposefully tried to stop an ongoing investigation into bank fraud and money laundering by submitting fictitious documents to the authorities.
The extent of the suspected conspiracy is highlighted by the similar charges brought against Ejiroghene Eghagha, the airline’s Chief of Administration and Finance.
On October 11, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan gave an overview of the case in a statement. It has been reported that Onyema and his co-defendant committed more fraud in an effort to thwart our investigation. Initially, they concealed bank system fraud behind the airline.
“We are able to hold our federal partners accountable for this aggravated conduct because of their diligence in uncovering their alleged obstruction attempt.”
Numerous law enforcement agencies have expressed interest in the case. The goal of the DEA Atlanta Division Special Agent in Charge, Robert J. Murphy, was to make people responsible for money laundering and fraud that jeopardizes the integrity of financial systems.
IRS Criminal Investigation Atlanta Field Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Lisa Fontanette added more commentary to the chorus of law enforcement voices.
Statement by Air Peace
