Allen Onyema, the CEO of Air Peace, and his associate, Ejiroghene Eghagha, are facing serious allegations of fraud and money laundering in the United States. A recent superseding indictment has led the U.S. government to seek the forfeiture of approximately $14 million in assets from Onyema. The indictment outlines multiple counts against the defendants, including conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, credit application fraud, and money laundering.
Allegations Against Onyema and Eghagha
The allegations against Onyema and Eghagha are severe. They are accused of using false documents to purchase aircraft and laundering over $16 million in proceeds. Onyema also faces new charges for allegedly obstructing justice by submitting false documents to the government to shut down the investigation. Eghagha is implicated in the obstruction scheme and faces additional charges related to the initial bank fraud counts.
Complex Financial Scheme
U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan revealed that Onyema has been linked to a complex financial scheme. Onyema, the founder of Air Peace, frequently visited Atlanta between 2010 and 2018, where he opened multiple personal and business bank accounts. Over $44.9 million was allegedly transferred into these accounts from international sources.
Forfeiture of Assets
The U.S. government seeks forfeiture of
$4,017,852.51 from a JP Morgan Chase Bank account held by Springfield Aviation Inc.
$4,393,842.05 from a Bank of Montreal account associated with Springfield Aviation Inc.
$5,634,842.04 from another Bank of Montreal account linked to Blue Stream Aero Services, Inc.
If convicted, the defendants will be required to forfeit any property derived from the alleged criminal activities.
In response, Air Peace Limited has stated that its legal team is involved in the matter and working to ensure justice is served. Onyema is cooperating with U.S. authorities regarding the fresh fraud charges.
The investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Commerce, and Department of Treasury.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett L. Bradford and Christopher J. Huber are prosecuting the case.
This case highlights the commitment of U.S. authorities to combat financial crimes and hold individuals accountable for their actions.