Love Scam: Victim narrates losing £130,000 to “Yahoo Boy” in ongoing EFCC trial

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) continued the trial of Wilson Daphey (also known as Jefrey Guiseppe) on Friday, October 6, 2023, before Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Daphey faces nine-count charges related to obtaining money under false pretenses and money laundering.

Daphey, along with his accomplices Evans Nnamdi Aguh, Christopher Chinedu Ajufo, Ifeanyi Enuma, and Ojinanaka Kingsley Chukwuma (who remain at large), allegedly manipulated and obtained £130,000 (One Hundred and Thirty Thousand Euros) from Ms. Petra Goschenhofer, a German national.

During the trial, Ms. Petra Goschenhofer, the victim, shared her experience before the court, revealing how she had initially believed she was interacting with a white man who later turned out to be a Nigerian. The fraudulent relationship began in 2008 when a man contacted her on Instagram using the identity Jeffrey Guiseppe, claiming to be a bitcoin trader and offering a business partnership, which she declined.

However, their conversations evolved, with Guiseppe posing as a building engineer based in the United States with roots in Italy. He claimed to have extensive building projects worldwide and presented himself as a single father of two. The relationship developed, and Guiseppe eventually asked for money, falsely stating that his equipment was held in Dubai and required funds for clearance.

Goschenhofer fell victim to the scam, making several payments totaling £130,000. She eventually discovered the deception and reported the matter to the authorities, leading to the EFCC’s investigation and prosecution.

All relevant evidence, including pictures, passports, work permits, and receipts, was presented and admitted in court. The trial is set to continue on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, for cross-examination.