Nigerian Citizen Pleads Guilty in $1.7 Million Bank Fraud and Money Laundering Scheme

David Daniyan, a 60-year-old man from Brooklyn, NY, has pled guilty to his role in a massive bank fraud and money laundering conspiracy that caused over $1.7 million in losses. Daniyan, who also used aliases such as Bamikole Laniyan and David Enfield, admitted his involvement in a complex operation led by Oluwaseun Adekoya, a 39-year-old Nigerian national from Cliffside Park, NJ.

The Scheme

Daniyan, along with Adekoya, used stolen personal identifying information from victims across the United States. The conspirators recruited others to impersonate these victims, using fake driver’s licenses to fraudulently access cash, checks, loans, and even merchandise from high-end retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue. The operation involved money laundering tactics, including purchasing additional fake IDs and funneling stolen funds into accounts controlled by the group.

The crime spree spanned the Northern District of New York and various states across the country. Daniyan’s actions, carried out in coordination with Adekoya and a network of accomplices, amassed over $1.7 million in fraudulent proceeds.

The Defendants

In addition to Daniyan, several others have been charged, including Adekoya, who faces multiple counts related to bank fraud, money laundering, and aggravated identity theft. Other defendants such as Kani Bassie, Davon Hunter, and Jermon Brooks are also facing charges for their roles in the scheme.

The Investigation

The investigation began after Daniyan’s arrest in May 2022 by Cohoes Police for attempting to commit fraud in the Capital Region. The operation led by the FBI-Albany and U.S. Attorneys resulted in the indictment of multiple co-conspirators, many of whom have already pled guilty.

The Sentence

Daniyan is set to be sentenced on July 10, 2025. He faces a maximum of 30 years in prison for bank fraud, along with additional sentences for money laundering and aggravated identity theft. Daniyan will also be ordered to pay restitution of over $1.7 million and forfeit nearly $100,000 in fraud proceeds. Following his prison term, Daniyan will face immigration removal proceedings.

This case highlights the continued efforts by federal authorities to combat sophisticated financial crimes, with law enforcement agencies across the country contributing to the investigation.