US Investigator Uncovers Shocking Findings on Nigerian Sextortion Scammers

Former United States prosecutor Erin West traveled to Nigeria to investigate online fraudsters known as “Yahoo boys” who run sextortion schemes that target American teenagers. During the mission she and her team confronted suspects, observed alleged “Yahoo Plus” rituals involving charms and juju, and obtained phone numbers, bank‑account details and location data linking the scammers to at least 60 teen suicides reported in the United States.

West reported that she handed the compiled evidence to Nigerian authorities, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Ministry of Justice, but no arrests have been made so far. A video of her findings has sparked widespread discussion in Nigeria about the country’s image, economic pressures and the need for stronger enforcement against transnational cyber‑crime.

The investigation highlights the ongoing challenge of dismantling a broader scam network that continues to exploit vulnerable youths across borders.