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A non-exhaustive list (63 cases) of Ireland's diverse money fraudsters, launderers & scammers.
Only a very tiny percentage of these people got to see the inside of a jail cell.
"naive" "reckless" "foolish"...a common motif.
A non-exhaustive list (63 cases) of Ireland's diverse money fraudsters, launderers & scammers.
Only a very tiny percentage of these people got to see the inside of a jail cell.
"naive" "reckless" "foolish"...a common motif.
1/63
Hungarian national Mercedes Koltai (24) was charged with 11 counts of theft by deception of elderly men in a Tralee court.
Koltai, living in Inch, is alleged to have dishonestly induced the men to hand over sums amounting to just over €20000 on dates in Feb & March 2023.
Hungarian national Mercedes Koltai (24) was charged with 11 counts of theft by deception of elderly men in a Tralee court.
Koltai, living in Inch, is alleged to have dishonestly induced the men to hand over sums amounting to just over €20000 on dates in Feb & March 2023.
2/63
In 14/03/2023 in a facebook group titled "Helping hands for Ukrainians In Ireland" a Ukrainian seeks advice on whether a relative of theirs, that already has safe refuge in Poland, should try to move to Ireland where they will be given benefits, housing and social payments.
In 14/03/2023 in a facebook group titled "Helping hands for Ukrainians In Ireland" a Ukrainian seeks advice on whether a relative of theirs, that already has safe refuge in Poland, should try to move to Ireland where they will be given benefits, housing and social payments.
3/63
Sherazaan Lunat (26) was charged with letting fraudsters use her bank account to transfer €5,000 in scam proceeds on 11/11/2021.
She was spared a criminal record in Dublin district court by Judge Bryan Smyth after she made a €1,000 charity donation.
She was "naive".
Sherazaan Lunat (26) was charged with letting fraudsters use her bank account to transfer €5,000 in scam proceeds on 11/11/2021.
She was spared a criminal record in Dublin district court by Judge Bryan Smyth after she made a €1,000 charity donation.
She was "naive".
4/63
A Taxi cab scam has cleaned out €300,000 from the bank accounts of 100 victims.
"The (Dublin based) gang has deployed a modus operandi not previously seen in Ireland"
Reported 19/12/2022.
A Taxi cab scam has cleaned out €300,000 from the bank accounts of 100 victims.
"The (Dublin based) gang has deployed a modus operandi not previously seen in Ireland"
Reported 19/12/2022.
5/63
African Nosakhare Ehrunmwunse (21) fraudulently claimed Pandemic Unemployment Payments totalling €2,800 & was arrested and charged with deception.
African Nosakhare Ehrunmwunse (21) fraudulently claimed Pandemic Unemployment Payments totalling €2,800 & was arrested and charged with deception.
https://twitter.com/DiversityinIre1/status/1639694987242754051
6/63
Nigerian man Lateef Tiamiyu (38), who was caught with six false passports, a machine used to clone ATM cards and 17 magnetic strips at his home in Dublin on 28/05/2021, has been jailed for two years by Judge Martin Nolan.
Nigerian man Lateef Tiamiyu (38), who was caught with six false passports, a machine used to clone ATM cards and 17 magnetic strips at his home in Dublin on 28/05/2021, has been jailed for two years by Judge Martin Nolan.
7/63
African man Andrew Edward (60) was given a nine-month suspended sentence by Judge Martin Nolan for his role in a ‘classic invoice redirection fraud' on 04/03/2021.
€19,095 was transferred into an account owned & controlled by Edward. It was flagged as suspicious.
"foolish"
African man Andrew Edward (60) was given a nine-month suspended sentence by Judge Martin Nolan for his role in a ‘classic invoice redirection fraud' on 04/03/2021.
€19,095 was transferred into an account owned & controlled by Edward. It was flagged as suspicious.
"foolish"
8/63
Nigerians Oluwagbewikeke Lewis (36) Bashiru Aderibigbe (45) came upon a routine traffic stop in Midleton, Co. Cork.
Gardai searched their car after they were observed acting nervously.
Evidence of a massive Black Axe gang pandemic unemployment payment fraud was discovered.
Nigerians Oluwagbewikeke Lewis (36) Bashiru Aderibigbe (45) came upon a routine traffic stop in Midleton, Co. Cork.
Gardai searched their car after they were observed acting nervously.
Evidence of a massive Black Axe gang pandemic unemployment payment fraud was discovered.
More info:
Both men pleaded guilty.
They were in direct contact with the leader of the criminal organisation.
The gang had planned to secure up to €1m using harvested emails of HSE staff but only managed to get €183,000.
They were jailed for 3 years and 2.5 respectively.
Both men pleaded guilty.
They were in direct contact with the leader of the criminal organisation.
The gang had planned to secure up to €1m using harvested emails of HSE staff but only managed to get €183,000.
They were jailed for 3 years and 2.5 respectively.
9/63
A UK care worker, Mahissat Anastacia Correia Djaura (24), pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to evasion of excise duty on €40,000 worth of cigarettes found in her baggage at Dublin Airport on 13/09/2021.
Judge Melanie Greally gave her a 3 month sentence.
A UK care worker, Mahissat Anastacia Correia Djaura (24), pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to evasion of excise duty on €40,000 worth of cigarettes found in her baggage at Dublin Airport on 13/09/2021.
Judge Melanie Greally gave her a 3 month sentence.
10/63
African men Joel Kialunda (20) and Emmanuel Esuku (23) were given a one year suspended sentence by Judge Martin Nolan for being involved in laundering money defrauded from a trade union on dates 22-23/04/2020.
Kialunda received over €27,000 into his bank account.
African men Joel Kialunda (20) and Emmanuel Esuku (23) were given a one year suspended sentence by Judge Martin Nolan for being involved in laundering money defrauded from a trade union on dates 22-23/04/2020.
Kialunda received over €27,000 into his bank account.
11/63
Ugandan-born "international conwoman" Farah Damji (55) fled to Dublin using false documents during her trial at Southwark Crown Court, UK in 02/2020.
The court convicted Damji in her absence and she was arrested by Gardaí in 08/2020.
Ugandan-born "international conwoman" Farah Damji (55) fled to Dublin using false documents during her trial at Southwark Crown Court, UK in 02/2020.
The court convicted Damji in her absence and she was arrested by Gardaí in 08/2020.
More info:
Damji, the daughter of a deceased South African-born property tycoon, has a criminal record for fraud & theft stretching back to the 90's.
While in Ireland, she used a false name when opening a bank account and to rent an apartment on Bachelor's Walk in Dublin city.
Damji, the daughter of a deceased South African-born property tycoon, has a criminal record for fraud & theft stretching back to the 90's.
While in Ireland, she used a false name when opening a bank account and to rent an apartment on Bachelor's Walk in Dublin city.
12/63
From 30/10/2020, Polish man Pawel Piechocki falsely claimed €8,750 in Pandemic Unemployment Payments (PUP) while being employed at the time in Letterkenny.
He was caught when a Social Welfare inspector carried out a routine review in 04/2021.
He is paying back €20 a week.
From 30/10/2020, Polish man Pawel Piechocki falsely claimed €8,750 in Pandemic Unemployment Payments (PUP) while being employed at the time in Letterkenny.
He was caught when a Social Welfare inspector carried out a routine review in 04/2021.
He is paying back €20 a week.
13/63
Nigerian "Kildare student" Akeem Ahmed (19) was charged as part of a major gangland money-laundering investigation.
From 01/02/2020 to 19/06/2020 money from victims of a "smishing" fraud totalled €92,988.
Ahmed faces charges for possessing stolen money totalling €22,000.
Nigerian "Kildare student" Akeem Ahmed (19) was charged as part of a major gangland money-laundering investigation.
From 01/02/2020 to 19/06/2020 money from victims of a "smishing" fraud totalled €92,988.
Ahmed faces charges for possessing stolen money totalling €22,000.
14/63
A Nigerian man (27) and a woman (25) were arrested in Dublin as part of an investigation into a €1.1m invoice redirect fraud involving a Dutch shipping company.
The raids were part of Operation Skein, an international investigation into invoice re-direct fraud.
2020.
A Nigerian man (27) and a woman (25) were arrested in Dublin as part of an investigation into a €1.1m invoice redirect fraud involving a Dutch shipping company.
The raids were part of Operation Skein, an international investigation into invoice re-direct fraud.
2020.
More info:
In total €31 million stolen in the scams has been laundered through Irish banks accounts.
Internationally:
700 suspects identified.
203 people arrested.
98 people charged.
Of those, local Gardaí have arrested 149 for money laundering and other offences.
In total €31 million stolen in the scams has been laundered through Irish banks accounts.
Internationally:
700 suspects identified.
203 people arrested.
98 people charged.
Of those, local Gardaí have arrested 149 for money laundering and other offences.
15/63
Shortly after arriving, Indian man Vishang Mehta (24) let scammers use his bank acc for money laundering purposes to transfer the proceeds gained from a rental scam that took place between July/Nov 2020.
“A naive person who has just come into the country” his lawyer said.
Shortly after arriving, Indian man Vishang Mehta (24) let scammers use his bank acc for money laundering purposes to transfer the proceeds gained from a rental scam that took place between July/Nov 2020.
“A naive person who has just come into the country” his lawyer said.
16/63
African "Donegal man" Ami Enabulele (27) who was behind a €205,000 fraud of AIB customers:
African "Donegal man" Ami Enabulele (27) who was behind a €205,000 fraud of AIB customers:
https://twitter.com/DiversityinIre1/status/1639694271535099906
17/63
Iraqi sisters Hala Salman Alaabsali (39) & Raghad Salaman Alaabsali (29), while being EU citizens, used their Iraqi national status to fraudulently get €10k in Direct Provision payments:
Iraqi sisters Hala Salman Alaabsali (39) & Raghad Salaman Alaabsali (29), while being EU citizens, used their Iraqi national status to fraudulently get €10k in Direct Provision payments:
https://twitter.com/DiversityinIre1/status/1640398237227008011
18/63
A Polish national mother of 3 and gambling addict, Justyna Jozwiak, fraudulently claimed €35,700 in emergency social welfare payments for accommodation in spite of having been given a place to live in Doneraile, Co Cork from August 2019 onwards.
A Polish national mother of 3 and gambling addict, Justyna Jozwiak, fraudulently claimed €35,700 in emergency social welfare payments for accommodation in spite of having been given a place to live in Doneraile, Co Cork from August 2019 onwards.
More info:
Judge Sean O’Donnabhain is considering her sentence.
The offence involved her presenting forged invoices & came to attention when the local authority realised she was on paper living at 2 different homes.
She admitted creating fraudulent invoices & receiving cheques.
Judge Sean O’Donnabhain is considering her sentence.
The offence involved her presenting forged invoices & came to attention when the local authority realised she was on paper living at 2 different homes.
She admitted creating fraudulent invoices & receiving cheques.
19/63
African man Joyce Sulambi (24) defrauded 2 Irish transport companies by diverting an invoice of €50,000 into his bank acc on 15/04/2019.
Judge Pauline Codd sentenced him to 2 years fully suspended.
2 prev convictions for violent disorder/possession of a weapon in 06/2019.
African man Joyce Sulambi (24) defrauded 2 Irish transport companies by diverting an invoice of €50,000 into his bank acc on 15/04/2019.
Judge Pauline Codd sentenced him to 2 years fully suspended.
2 prev convictions for violent disorder/possession of a weapon in 06/2019.
20/63
African man Andrew Edward (60) avoided a jail term for his 04/03/2021 role in what Judge Martin Nolan called a “classic invoice redirection fraud.”
He pleaded guilty to money laundering after a €19,095 payment into his acc was flagged as suspicious.
9 month susp sentence.
African man Andrew Edward (60) avoided a jail term for his 04/03/2021 role in what Judge Martin Nolan called a “classic invoice redirection fraud.”
He pleaded guilty to money laundering after a €19,095 payment into his acc was flagged as suspicious.
9 month susp sentence.
21/63
Nigerian man Proffitt Bob Chiaka (38) was "naive" when he let a fraudster use his account to launder €4,500 from an invoice redirect scam.
On 10/10/2019 at Dublin District Court, Judge Bryan Smyth said he would give Chiaka a suspended sentence if he paid full compensation.
Nigerian man Proffitt Bob Chiaka (38) was "naive" when he let a fraudster use his account to launder €4,500 from an invoice redirect scam.
On 10/10/2019 at Dublin District Court, Judge Bryan Smyth said he would give Chiaka a suspended sentence if he paid full compensation.
22/63
Indian Kasim Muchhala (34) pled guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to money laundering.
He allowed his friend (who stole €1.2 mil from the company they both worked for) to use his bank acc from 01/2019 to 10/2019 to launder €72k.
Judge Nolan: 18-month sus sentence.
Indian Kasim Muchhala (34) pled guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to money laundering.
He allowed his friend (who stole €1.2 mil from the company they both worked for) to use his bank acc from 01/2019 to 10/2019 to launder €72k.
Judge Nolan: 18-month sus sentence.
23/63
Nigerian nationals Omowale Owolabi (31), Raak Sami Sadu (32), Samson Ajayi (33) pleaded guilty to theft, conspiracy to commit fraud & 3 counts of money laundering after using "romance fraud" to extract over €254,000 in life savings (+€50k she borrowed) from a woman (60's)
Nigerian nationals Omowale Owolabi (31), Raak Sami Sadu (32), Samson Ajayi (33) pleaded guilty to theft, conspiracy to commit fraud & 3 counts of money laundering after using "romance fraud" to extract over €254,000 in life savings (+€50k she borrowed) from a woman (60's)
More info:
24/63
Italian national Giuseppe Diviccaro (46), living in Glasnevin, Dublin, pleaded guilty to knowingly contributing to the activities of a criminal organisation and offences of money laundering within the State on dates 21/06/2018 to 17/07/2020.
Judge Melanie Greally: 3 ½ years
Italian national Giuseppe Diviccaro (46), living in Glasnevin, Dublin, pleaded guilty to knowingly contributing to the activities of a criminal organisation and offences of money laundering within the State on dates 21/06/2018 to 17/07/2020.
Judge Melanie Greally: 3 ½ years
25/63
Polish man Jan Kuczynski (50) sought €60,000 in damages for personal injuries against a former employer in Dublin after he hit his head in a toilet cubicle in May 2018.
Judge James McCourt dismissed the claim after Kuczynski admitted it was most likely his own fault.
Polish man Jan Kuczynski (50) sought €60,000 in damages for personal injuries against a former employer in Dublin after he hit his head in a toilet cubicle in May 2018.
Judge James McCourt dismissed the claim after Kuczynski admitted it was most likely his own fault.
26/63
Latvian national Olga Dresmane (49), a Dublin Airport security officer, had her €60,000 workplace claim for a knee injury in 04/2018 dismissed by Judge John Martin after evidence of her running a 10km mini-marathon (11 weeks later) came to light.
She was out of work 4 yrs
Latvian national Olga Dresmane (49), a Dublin Airport security officer, had her €60,000 workplace claim for a knee injury in 04/2018 dismissed by Judge John Martin after evidence of her running a 10km mini-marathon (11 weeks later) came to light.
She was out of work 4 yrs
27/63
Christian Carluccio & Leonid Iliev had personal injury claims (a lorry “grazed” their car on 15/11/2018) dismissed for giving misleading evidence & failing to disclose details of 4 prev accidents (Carluccio) and 1 prev accident (Iliev).
Judge Mary O’Malley: Waterford Court.
Christian Carluccio & Leonid Iliev had personal injury claims (a lorry “grazed” their car on 15/11/2018) dismissed for giving misleading evidence & failing to disclose details of 4 prev accidents (Carluccio) and 1 prev accident (Iliev).
Judge Mary O’Malley: Waterford Court.
28/63
Pakistani man Zahid Ahmed Begum (49) has been charged with allegedly laundering €447,000 from an invoice fraud scheme on dates 19/10/2017 and 03/11/2017 in Co. Tipperary.
He was extradited to Dublin from Britain on 28/12/2022 to face a total of 53 charges.
Pakistani man Zahid Ahmed Begum (49) has been charged with allegedly laundering €447,000 from an invoice fraud scheme on dates 19/10/2017 and 03/11/2017 in Co. Tipperary.
He was extradited to Dublin from Britain on 28/12/2022 to face a total of 53 charges.
29/63
Judge James McCourt threw out a €60,000 claim by Polish man Kamil Losik (37), stating a rear-ending car accident in 02/2017 was 'staged'.
His friends Artur Kozlowski, Bartlomiej Wawrzyniak and Tomasz Szczepanski (also seeking damages €180,000) withdrew their claims.
Judge James McCourt threw out a €60,000 claim by Polish man Kamil Losik (37), stating a rear-ending car accident in 02/2017 was 'staged'.
His friends Artur Kozlowski, Bartlomiej Wawrzyniak and Tomasz Szczepanski (also seeking damages €180,000) withdrew their claims.
30/63
Nigerian woman Blessing Agbo (50) had a €60,000 personal injuries claim, for falling down wet steps at Trinity College, Dublin on 21/02/2017, dismissed by Judge John Martin after video evidence and an ever evolving story given to doctors shed new light on her claims.
Nigerian woman Blessing Agbo (50) had a €60,000 personal injuries claim, for falling down wet steps at Trinity College, Dublin on 21/02/2017, dismissed by Judge John Martin after video evidence and an ever evolving story given to doctors shed new light on her claims.
31/63
A woman (40) living in Clondalkin, Dublin, considered a key figure in the Black Axe crime group, has been arrested on 27/03/2023.
A total of around €10m in fraud-related cash is believed to have passed through several bank accounts she controlled between 2017 and 2019.
A woman (40) living in Clondalkin, Dublin, considered a key figure in the Black Axe crime group, has been arrested on 27/03/2023.
A total of around €10m in fraud-related cash is believed to have passed through several bank accounts she controlled between 2017 and 2019.
32/63
"Dublin mum" Aurelia Nosaci (54) unsuccessfully sought €60,000 damages for injuries due to a rear-ending accident in 05/2017
Nosaci claimed she had been “in pain all over my body” and suffered a fractured finger.
Investigating Gardai concluded the cars never made contact.
"Dublin mum" Aurelia Nosaci (54) unsuccessfully sought €60,000 damages for injuries due to a rear-ending accident in 05/2017
Nosaci claimed she had been “in pain all over my body” and suffered a fractured finger.
Investigating Gardai concluded the cars never made contact.
33/63
Six factory workers (Keelings in Dublin), who helped launder hundreds of thousands of euro on dates between 2016 and 2017 in an operation being carried out by a West African gang, have avoided jail.
Judge Martin Nolan handed down suspended sentences to all six.
Six factory workers (Keelings in Dublin), who helped launder hundreds of thousands of euro on dates between 2016 and 2017 in an operation being carried out by a West African gang, have avoided jail.
Judge Martin Nolan handed down suspended sentences to all six.
More info:
Albert Joseph (38): 2 counts €34,236 & €25,575 in (06/2016) total €109,000 - 3 ½ years suspended.
Josip Vlahovic (33): 1 count €79,000 in (06/2016) - 2½ years suspended.
Toni Kudro (33): 1 count €8869 in 09/2017 just under €36,000 in full - 2½ years suspended.
Albert Joseph (38): 2 counts €34,236 & €25,575 in (06/2016) total €109,000 - 3 ½ years suspended.
Josip Vlahovic (33): 1 count €79,000 in (06/2016) - 2½ years suspended.
Toni Kudro (33): 1 count €8869 in 09/2017 just under €36,000 in full - 2½ years suspended.
More info:
Mate Vlahovic (41): 1 count €6760 in 09/2017 - 18 months suspended.
Krisztina Baradlai (29): 1 count €5900 on 18/09/2017 - 18 months suspended.
Claudia Onofrieciuc (39): 1 count €4592 on 20/03/2017 - 18 months suspended.
Mate Vlahovic (41): 1 count €6760 in 09/2017 - 18 months suspended.
Krisztina Baradlai (29): 1 count €5900 on 18/09/2017 - 18 months suspended.
Claudia Onofrieciuc (39): 1 count €4592 on 20/03/2017 - 18 months suspended.
34/63
Romanian bodybuilder Relu Gauca (37) withdrew his €60,000 claim (following a car crash on 30/01/2016 where he was sued a motorist) after video evidence showed him working out in a gym since the crash & participating in bodybuilding shows.
Justice Raymond Groarke in Dublin
Romanian bodybuilder Relu Gauca (37) withdrew his €60,000 claim (following a car crash on 30/01/2016 where he was sued a motorist) after video evidence showed him working out in a gym since the crash & participating in bodybuilding shows.
Justice Raymond Groarke in Dublin
35/63
Polish man Ireneusz Larus (50) was awarded €12,500 by Justice Raymond Groarke after he sued his wife Barita Larus for €60k following a road traffic injury.
An hour later, in a different court, his €60,000 damages claim for ANOTHER traffic accident was dismissed.
12/2016.
Polish man Ireneusz Larus (50) was awarded €12,500 by Justice Raymond Groarke after he sued his wife Barita Larus for €60k following a road traffic injury.
An hour later, in a different court, his €60,000 damages claim for ANOTHER traffic accident was dismissed.
12/2016.
36/63
John Sankeni (40) was squatting at an asylum centre while sitting on €500,000 in his bank acc.
He faced 2 charges of theft of €4,500 and €1,500 from a Greek Shipping company at a bank in Dublin on 07/07/2016.
Further charges for money laundering were due to be brought.
John Sankeni (40) was squatting at an asylum centre while sitting on €500,000 in his bank acc.
He faced 2 charges of theft of €4,500 and €1,500 from a Greek Shipping company at a bank in Dublin on 07/07/2016.
Further charges for money laundering were due to be brought.
37/63
Romanian conman Constantin Iosca (40), who sued the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland after he was involved in an accident with an unknown vehicle in 06/2016, which left him needing a wheelchair, withdrew this €60,000 claim after video evidence emerged of him jogging.
Romanian conman Constantin Iosca (40), who sued the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland after he was involved in an accident with an unknown vehicle in 06/2016, which left him needing a wheelchair, withdrew this €60,000 claim after video evidence emerged of him jogging.
More info:
"Neighbour from hell" and convicted thief Iosca, who has at least 14 previous convictions, was later arrested by Gardai for conspiracy to defraud at his home in Lusk, north Co Dublin, on 09/07/2020.
"Neighbour from hell" and convicted thief Iosca, who has at least 14 previous convictions, was later arrested by Gardai for conspiracy to defraud at his home in Lusk, north Co Dublin, on 09/07/2020.
38/63
Romanian Gheorghe Gherge (35) pleaded guilty to 2 counts of using a false instrument and 2 counts of money laundering within the State on dates between 06/2016 - 04/2019.
He opened 17 different bank accounts using fake IDs.
Has 2 prev convictions in UK for similar offences
Romanian Gheorghe Gherge (35) pleaded guilty to 2 counts of using a false instrument and 2 counts of money laundering within the State on dates between 06/2016 - 04/2019.
He opened 17 different bank accounts using fake IDs.
Has 2 prev convictions in UK for similar offences
More info:
A total of €670,000 was laundered out of the accounts connected to Gherghe.
Judge Dara Hayes imposed a sentence of 6 ½ years but suspended the final 3 on condition that he be of good behaviour for 7 years upon his release from custody & leave Ireland once out of jail.
A total of €670,000 was laundered out of the accounts connected to Gherghe.
Judge Dara Hayes imposed a sentence of 6 ½ years but suspended the final 3 on condition that he be of good behaviour for 7 years upon his release from custody & leave Ireland once out of jail.
39/63
Indian man Ravinder Pal Singh (39) had his 5th personal injury claim (€60,000) thrown out by Judge James O’Donohue in Dublin.
Singh had settlements totalling €68,651 in 3 prev. claims but had failed to reveal to the court a fourth claim for another "accident" in 10/2016.
Indian man Ravinder Pal Singh (39) had his 5th personal injury claim (€60,000) thrown out by Judge James O’Donohue in Dublin.
Singh had settlements totalling €68,651 in 3 prev. claims but had failed to reveal to the court a fourth claim for another "accident" in 10/2016.
40/63
Romanian Romano Suciu (25) moved back to Romania from Midleton, Co Cork but flew back to Ireland regularly, from 12/2015 to 02/2017, for the purpose of collecting a social welfare payment and did not stop until she was arrested for stealing more than €10,000 in payments.
Romanian Romano Suciu (25) moved back to Romania from Midleton, Co Cork but flew back to Ireland regularly, from 12/2015 to 02/2017, for the purpose of collecting a social welfare payment and did not stop until she was arrested for stealing more than €10,000 in payments.
41/63
Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Romanians
Vasile Bizau (24) to 3½ years & Ioan Bizau (31) to 4½ years (final year suspended on condition they leave the country) for possession of stolen ATM cards and scamming ATM's in Stillorgan, Dundrum & Rathmines in Oct/Nov 2014.
Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Romanians
Vasile Bizau (24) to 3½ years & Ioan Bizau (31) to 4½ years (final year suspended on condition they leave the country) for possession of stolen ATM cards and scamming ATM's in Stillorgan, Dundrum & Rathmines in Oct/Nov 2014.
42/63
Nigerian Esther Lamidi (35) had her €60,000 injury claim (following a car crash in Dublin city centre) thrown out by Mr Justice Raymond Groarke after she was videoed jogging across a road the same day she told a consultant about her multiple leg/back injuries.
Nigerian Esther Lamidi (35) had her €60,000 injury claim (following a car crash in Dublin city centre) thrown out by Mr Justice Raymond Groarke after she was videoed jogging across a road the same day she told a consultant about her multiple leg/back injuries.
More info:
Lamidi has failed her driving test multiple times, has a provisional licence 19 years and still illegally drives her car unaccompanied which was known to court.
Lamidi said despite the judge saying she was telling “blatant lies” she felt he believed her.
Lamidi has failed her driving test multiple times, has a provisional licence 19 years and still illegally drives her car unaccompanied which was known to court.
Lamidi said despite the judge saying she was telling “blatant lies” she felt he believed her.
43/63
Russian Alexander Afanaschenko (45)
Ukrainian Mikhail Yegorov (38)
Latvian Elena Olenik (44) have been charged over a €6m “ghost broker” motor insurance fraud.
From 01/2013 to 09/2018,
2,500 policies, valued at €6m, were fraudulently obtained from 10 insurance companies.
Russian Alexander Afanaschenko (45)
Ukrainian Mikhail Yegorov (38)
Latvian Elena Olenik (44) have been charged over a €6m “ghost broker” motor insurance fraud.
From 01/2013 to 09/2018,
2,500 policies, valued at €6m, were fraudulently obtained from 10 insurance companies.
More info:
Afanaschenko (owns Irish, Moldovan, Russian passports) faces 210 charges for fraudulent trading, deception, money laundering, false documentation.
Yegorov faces 21 charges for money laundering.
Olenik faces 15 charges for money laundering & 20 for forgery of documents
Afanaschenko (owns Irish, Moldovan, Russian passports) faces 210 charges for fraudulent trading, deception, money laundering, false documentation.
Yegorov faces 21 charges for money laundering.
Olenik faces 15 charges for money laundering & 20 for forgery of documents
44/63
Cameroon man Paul Afumbom (27) withdrew a €60,000 claim (2013 accident) against the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland after the court heard he had neglected to inform his solicitor about a previous conviction for stealing €22035 from his local Bank Of Ireland in 2014.
Cameroon man Paul Afumbom (27) withdrew a €60,000 claim (2013 accident) against the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland after the court heard he had neglected to inform his solicitor about a previous conviction for stealing €22035 from his local Bank Of Ireland in 2014.
45/63
Kosovar refugee Marije Nika (49) was spared a jail sentence for unlawfully getting almost €30,000 in disability allowance payments while she lived in Australia from 2012 until 2014.
Judge John Brennan recorded a conviction but did not proceed to impose a fine/sentence.
Kosovar refugee Marije Nika (49) was spared a jail sentence for unlawfully getting almost €30,000 in disability allowance payments while she lived in Australia from 2012 until 2014.
Judge John Brennan recorded a conviction but did not proceed to impose a fine/sentence.
46/63
After a vast amount of research by Aviva Insurance, a liaison between Irish traveller & Roma communities to set up staged accidents & claims to defraud was discovered in Galway.
Romanian Neagu Alexandru & traveller brothers Martin and John Gerard Corcoran were named.
2012.
After a vast amount of research by Aviva Insurance, a liaison between Irish traveller & Roma communities to set up staged accidents & claims to defraud was discovered in Galway.
Romanian Neagu Alexandru & traveller brothers Martin and John Gerard Corcoran were named.
2012.
47/63
Congolese man Jean Tamfutu (40) obtained €20,000 in dole payments while he secretly earned a living working under another identity (his friend left Ireland) from 2011 to 2013.
Judge John O'Neill sought a probation report and adjourned sentencing Tamfutu until a later date.
Congolese man Jean Tamfutu (40) obtained €20,000 in dole payments while he secretly earned a living working under another identity (his friend left Ireland) from 2011 to 2013.
Judge John O'Neill sought a probation report and adjourned sentencing Tamfutu until a later date.
48/63
Senegalese asylum-seeker Samba Sow (55) arrived in Ireland in 2007.
He paid €900 for a French passport with the name "Moussa Sow" which allowed him to work & acquire a PPS number.
He became redundant during the recession and claimed €50,006 in social welfare payments.
Senegalese asylum-seeker Samba Sow (55) arrived in Ireland in 2007.
He paid €900 for a French passport with the name "Moussa Sow" which allowed him to work & acquire a PPS number.
He became redundant during the recession and claimed €50,006 in social welfare payments.
More info:
He claimed these from 2011 to 2014.
In 2015, when Sow was granted permission to remain in the state, he brought his false claim to an end & made a legitimate claim in his real name.
His deception was flagged by the Department of Social Protection's facial recognition.
He claimed these from 2011 to 2014.
In 2015, when Sow was granted permission to remain in the state, he brought his false claim to an end & made a legitimate claim in his real name.
His deception was flagged by the Department of Social Protection's facial recognition.
49/63
Gardaí broke up a major criminal network that had been using forged cheques/credit cards to defraud businesses and charities.
€160,000 was recovered & attempts to steal up to €1.3 million were thwarted.
3 Zimbabwean nationals were arrested in Drogheda/Galway on 13/10/2010
Gardaí broke up a major criminal network that had been using forged cheques/credit cards to defraud businesses and charities.
€160,000 was recovered & attempts to steal up to €1.3 million were thwarted.
3 Zimbabwean nationals were arrested in Drogheda/Galway on 13/10/2010
50/63
Congolese woman Nadege Kibamba (39) claimed €21,377 in Jobseeker's Allowance while she was working at Penneys in Blanchardstown using a different PRSI number on dates from 2010 to 2011 and from 01/2014 to 02/2015.
Last checked the case was still going through the courts.
Congolese woman Nadege Kibamba (39) claimed €21,377 in Jobseeker's Allowance while she was working at Penneys in Blanchardstown using a different PRSI number on dates from 2010 to 2011 and from 01/2014 to 02/2015.
Last checked the case was still going through the courts.
51/63
Cameroon man Charles Eyombo (40), and FORMER member of the Garda Reserve, fraudulently claimed €37,000 in welfare payments from Aug 2009 but avoided jail provided he repaid the balance of money.
He resigned from the reserve in 2011 following a separate disciplinary inquiry
Cameroon man Charles Eyombo (40), and FORMER member of the Garda Reserve, fraudulently claimed €37,000 in welfare payments from Aug 2009 but avoided jail provided he repaid the balance of money.
He resigned from the reserve in 2011 following a separate disciplinary inquiry
52/63
Romanian man Stefan Onofrei (34) stole €85,000 from the State by claiming social welfare (from 09/01/2009 to 10/02/2015) under a false name by using a Lithuanian passport he purchased for €200 which he had used to get a PPS number.
Judge Martin Nolan gave him 3 years.
Romanian man Stefan Onofrei (34) stole €85,000 from the State by claiming social welfare (from 09/01/2009 to 10/02/2015) under a false name by using a Lithuanian passport he purchased for €200 which he had used to get a PPS number.
Judge Martin Nolan gave him 3 years.
53/63
Iraqi Mohammed Hamad (37), who fraudulently claimed over €65,000 in social welfare payments (from May 2009 to October 2013) and was finally detected using facial-imaging technology, was given a 3½ year suspended sentence by Judge Martin Nolan.
Iraqi Mohammed Hamad (37), who fraudulently claimed over €65,000 in social welfare payments (from May 2009 to October 2013) and was finally detected using facial-imaging technology, was given a 3½ year suspended sentence by Judge Martin Nolan.
More info:
Hamad initially sought asylum in England before moving on to Ireland where he was refused asylum.
He left again but returned to Ireland in 2009 under the false identity which he later claimed the welfare payments under.
Hamad initially sought asylum in England before moving on to Ireland where he was refused asylum.
He left again but returned to Ireland in 2009 under the false identity which he later claimed the welfare payments under.
54/63
Czech national "Clare man" Ladislav Klier (39) defrauded Active Tool Hire in Tallaght out of goods valued at nearly €5,000 on 01/06/2008.
He has 38 prev. convictions.
Judge Tony Hunt imposed a two year sentence with the present custody balance suspended for three years.
Czech national "Clare man" Ladislav Klier (39) defrauded Active Tool Hire in Tallaght out of goods valued at nearly €5,000 on 01/06/2008.
He has 38 prev. convictions.
Judge Tony Hunt imposed a two year sentence with the present custody balance suspended for three years.
55/63
Moldovan man Ivan Zaporojan (49) claimed over €30,000 in job seekers allowance under a false identity (a fake Lithuanian alias) from 12/2008 to 09/2015.
Caught by imaging software 2015.
No money was paid back.
Judge Michael O’Shea handed down an 18 month sentence.
Moldovan man Ivan Zaporojan (49) claimed over €30,000 in job seekers allowance under a false identity (a fake Lithuanian alias) from 12/2008 to 09/2015.
Caught by imaging software 2015.
No money was paid back.
Judge Michael O’Shea handed down an 18 month sentence.
56/63
Ukrainian national Viktor Voloshin (51) obtained false Lithuanian documentation for 2 separate aliases which he used to claim Jobseeker's Allowance & Rent Supplement totalling €95,744 between 2008 and 2016.
Judge Codd sentenced Voloshin to 5 years but suspended 2½ years.
Ukrainian national Viktor Voloshin (51) obtained false Lithuanian documentation for 2 separate aliases which he used to claim Jobseeker's Allowance & Rent Supplement totalling €95,744 between 2008 and 2016.
Judge Codd sentenced Voloshin to 5 years but suspended 2½ years.
57/63
In Longford, Ukrainian Viktor Mshar was charged with claiming over €6,000 from social welfare from 2007 to 2020.
Judge Bernadette Owens fined him €200 with 6 months to pay it back.
“On a separate note, I am pleased for him that his family has arrived safely in Ireland,”
In Longford, Ukrainian Viktor Mshar was charged with claiming over €6,000 from social welfare from 2007 to 2020.
Judge Bernadette Owens fined him €200 with 6 months to pay it back.
“On a separate note, I am pleased for him that his family has arrived safely in Ireland,”
58/63
A muslim woman Naila Zaffer (38) working as a senior claims manager, defrauded her employer out of €220,000 from 04/2007 to 08/2012 so she could pay off a spiralling drug debt, received a 2½ year susp. sentence from Judge Terence O'Sullivan in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
A muslim woman Naila Zaffer (38) working as a senior claims manager, defrauded her employer out of €220,000 from 04/2007 to 08/2012 so she could pay off a spiralling drug debt, received a 2½ year susp. sentence from Judge Terence O'Sullivan in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
59/63
Somali national asylum seeker Elmuatasim Mohammed (45) stole €112,000 in jobseeker's benefits and rent allowance from 2007 to 2012.
Mohammed had addresses in Cork, Waterford and Antrim and also obtained a false Dutch identity.
Judge Sean O'Donnabhain gave him 3 years.
Somali national asylum seeker Elmuatasim Mohammed (45) stole €112,000 in jobseeker's benefits and rent allowance from 2007 to 2012.
Mohammed had addresses in Cork, Waterford and Antrim and also obtained a false Dutch identity.
Judge Sean O'Donnabhain gave him 3 years.
60/63
Nigerian couple Kenneth Gboboh (36) & his wife Franca (41) were sentenced over 'one of largest welfare fraud cases in the State', the combined fraud totalled over €400,000 and took place over a period of more than eight years.
They arrived in Ireland from Nigeria in 2006.
Nigerian couple Kenneth Gboboh (36) & his wife Franca (41) were sentenced over 'one of largest welfare fraud cases in the State', the combined fraud totalled over €400,000 and took place over a period of more than eight years.
They arrived in Ireland from Nigeria in 2006.
More info:
In 2006, both applied for and began to receive unemployment benefit.
2008: Gboboh established a 2nd identity under the name Patrick Akim & worked as an IT project manager while taking out a €240,000 mortgage from EBS.
In 2006, both applied for and began to receive unemployment benefit.
2008: Gboboh established a 2nd identity under the name Patrick Akim & worked as an IT project manager while taking out a €240,000 mortgage from EBS.
More info:
Franca Gboboh:
Jobseeker’s allowance: €132,000
Rent allowance: €49,000.
Kenneth Gboboh:
Jobseeker’s allowance: €4,000
Fraudulent mortgage: €240,000
Since the State stopped paying, the couple who have four children, have run up €40,000 in arrears on the mortgage.
Franca Gboboh:
Jobseeker’s allowance: €132,000
Rent allowance: €49,000.
Kenneth Gboboh:
Jobseeker’s allowance: €4,000
Fraudulent mortgage: €240,000
Since the State stopped paying, the couple who have four children, have run up €40,000 in arrears on the mortgage.
More info:
Judge Michael O’Shea sentenced Kenneth Gboboh to 3 years with the last 12 months suspended and Franca Gboboh to 3 years and suspended all 3 years.
Judge Michael O’Shea sentenced Kenneth Gboboh to 3 years with the last 12 months suspended and Franca Gboboh to 3 years and suspended all 3 years.
62/63
Nigerian native and mother of four, Janet Agbontaen (55), who fraudulently claimed more than €100,000 in child welfare and single parent benefits from 2002 to 2008 has been jailed for two years.
For 8 years she lived here under two identities, one of which was fake.
Nigerian native and mother of four, Janet Agbontaen (55), who fraudulently claimed more than €100,000 in child welfare and single parent benefits from 2002 to 2008 has been jailed for two years.
For 8 years she lived here under two identities, one of which was fake.
More info:
Agbontaen arrived in Dublin airport in 04/2001 heavily pregnant & under a false identity and claimed to be from Sierra Leone seeking asylum.
5 months later she made a 2nd claim of asylum under her real identity & claimed she had arrived a day before.
Judge Martin Nolan
Agbontaen arrived in Dublin airport in 04/2001 heavily pregnant & under a false identity and claimed to be from Sierra Leone seeking asylum.
5 months later she made a 2nd claim of asylum under her real identity & claimed she had arrived a day before.
Judge Martin Nolan
63/63
Romanian man Adrian Vaduva (44) defrauded the State for 17 years when he used two identities to accumulate over €280,000 in social welfare payments between 1999 and 2015.
Judge Barry Hickson gave him a 3 year prison sentence with the last nine months suspended.
Romanian man Adrian Vaduva (44) defrauded the State for 17 years when he used two identities to accumulate over €280,000 in social welfare payments between 1999 and 2015.
Judge Barry Hickson gave him a 3 year prison sentence with the last nine months suspended.
More info:
Vaduva first arrived in Ireland in 1998 and was refused asylum but returned the following year, under the assumed name of Eduard Preda, and granted asylum. He then began collecting social welfare using this false identity.
Caught by Facial Imaging Software in 2015.
Vaduva first arrived in Ireland in 1998 and was refused asylum but returned the following year, under the assumed name of Eduard Preda, and granted asylum. He then began collecting social welfare using this false identity.
Caught by Facial Imaging Software in 2015.
And that concludes Diversity in Ireland's frausters, launderers and scammer's thread!
If someone out there wants to check what we're owed, you're more than welcome to add up the bill!
If someone out there wants to check what we're owed, you're more than welcome to add up the bill!
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