United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has confirmed the arrest of Etinosa Osahon, a 49-year-old Nigerian national, in Los Angeles. He faces allegations related to theft and fraud, including bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Details of the Arrest
In a statement posted on social media platform X, ICE Los Angeles announced that Osahon was taken into custody on May 21. The agency stated, "ICE Los Angeles arrested Etinosa Osahon, 49, of Nigeria, May 21. Osahon’s criminal record includes stealing and being in possession of stolen mail, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. He is in ICE custody pending removal."
Criminal Record
According to ICE, Osahon’s criminal history encompasses stealing, possession of stolen mail, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. These offenses form the basis of the charges leading to his arrest and detention.
Broader Enforcement Context
Osahon’s arrest is part of a series of enforcement actions by U.S. authorities targeting foreign nationals with criminal records. In April, ICE arrested another Nigerian, Olatunde Olusanjo, on allegations of sexual offenses. Olusanjo was apprehended by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) unit and placed in custody pending deportation.
Intensified Immigration Enforcement
U.S. authorities have recently intensified immigration enforcement against foreign nationals with criminal records. The Trump administration has targeted Nigeria and other nations with anti-immigrant policies affecting their nationals. ICE, a federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security, was created in 2003 after the September 11 attacks. It enforces immigration laws, investigates transnational crime, and protects national security. ICE operates through two main divisions: Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
ICE was formed by merging the investigative functions of the former Immigration and Naturalization Service with the U.S. Customs Service. The agency employs over 20,000 personnel across more than 400 offices worldwide and has an annual budget exceeding $8 billion. HSI focuses on dismantling criminal organizations involved in smuggling, fraud, and terrorism, while ERO manages arrests, detention, and deportation of individuals who violate immigration laws.
Previous Arrest of Nigerian in LA
In a related incident, Legit.ng reported that Olatunde Abiodun Olusanjo, a 53-year-old Nigerian, was arrested in Los Angeles by ICE on April 21, 2026. He remains in detention facing deportation proceedings. Olusanjo’s arrest was connected to previous legal troubles including child molestation, sexual battery, and soliciting lewd conduct.
