Federal authorities have charged three men in Southern California with orchestrating a large-scale fraud scheme that swindled elderly victims out of millions of dollars.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office identified the suspects as:
- Lovert Che, 44, of Lomita
- Sylas Nyuydzene Verdzekov, 38, of Chino Hills
- Mustapha Nkachiwouo Selly Yamie, 29, of Inglewood
Che and Verdzekov were taken into custody on Thursday, while Yamie remains at large.
Prosecutors say the trio defrauded at least 100 victims, stealing approximately $10 million through elaborate scams. According to court documents, the suspects and their associates began their operation in November 2021, producing fraudulent identification documents—including fake passports and driver’s licenses—to carry out their crimes.
Using these falsified identities, they established at least 36 shell companies across California, which were then used to facilitate fraudulent transactions. They also opened 145 bank accounts and secured 32 private mailboxes to aid in their schemes.
One method involved tricking elderly victims through phone calls and email pop-ups. Posing as law enforcement officers or representatives from well-known companies, they convinced victims their financial accounts had been compromised. Under the guise of “helping” to secure the funds, they persuaded victims to transfer money to accounts controlled by the suspects. These transactions were carried out using electronic bank transfers, money orders, cashier’s checks, or personal checks. The stolen funds were then allegedly used for personal expenses, including rent payments.
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Another scheme involved real estate fraud. The suspects reportedly impersonated property owners, using forged documents to convince buyers to wire money or send checks for fraudulent property sales.
Authorities say the fraudulent activity led to millions being laundered through various accounts.
“Financial fraud schemes targeting elderly victims are fueling organized crime networks,” said John Pasciucco, Acting Special Agent in Charge for HSI Los Angeles. “We are committed to protecting vulnerable individuals and educating the public on the warning signs of these scams.”
“These criminals not only took their victims’ money but also shattered their sense of security and trust,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “Let this be a warning—those who exploit the elderly will face the full force of the law.”
Each defendant has been charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering. Che and Verdzekov are scheduled to appear in federal court in downtown Los Angeles, while Yamie remains a fugitive.
Authorities urge anyone who may have fallen victim to financial fraud to immediately contact their bank or financial institution to attempt a reversal of the transaction. Victims should also report the crime to law enforcement and file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
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