Otumun Nicholas

Under the direction of the Oldenburg Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Delmenhorst/Oldenburg-Land/Wesermarsch police inspectorate is investigating 13 individuals on charges of membership in a foreign criminal organization, large-scale fraud, money laundering, forced labour, and human trafficking.

The suspects, aged 40 to 62, from Delmenhorst and Bremen, allegedly committed numerous crimes over the years, amassing over one million euros through internet fraud. They primarily engaged in romance scams—gaining victims’ trust via dating platforms and social media before fabricating emergencies to solicit large sums of money. Additionally, they are accused of sending fraudulent invoices to exploit unsuspecting recipients.

Several suspects are believed to be members of the Confraternity Black Axe, also known as the Neo Black Movement of Africa, allegedly using their network to facilitate and profit from criminal activities. As a result, the Oldenburg Public Prosecutor’s Office is also investigating them for organized crime involvement.

Some of the accused are also suspected of employing undocumented workers and withholding their salaries entirely.

On Wednesday, 12 March 2025, German and Austrian police executed three arrest warrants and searched 12 residential properties in Lower Saxony and Bremen, as well as a workplace linked to the accused. The raids led to the seizure of key evidence, including a significant five-figure sum in cash.

Following the initial review of confiscated materials, authorities confirmed strong suspicion against an additional suspect, for whom pre-trial detention has been requested. A court decision is pending.

The extensive investigation, ongoing since July 2024, is being supported by multiple agencies, including Bavarian authorities, Eurojust, and international law enforcement partners.