Overview
- The trial at the Munich I Regional Court marks the first major legal action against the Nigerian mafia in Germany, targeting the 'Black Axe' group.
- Twelve defendants, aged 33 to 54, are accused of forming a criminal organization involved in love scamming, money laundering, and human trafficking for sexual exploitation.
- One high-profile case involves a victim who was defrauded of 235,000 euros through a love scamming scheme orchestrated by the group.
- Authorities estimate the 'Black Axe' has 30,000 members worldwide, with a few hundred active in Germany, particularly in Bavaria, a key hub for their operations.
- The trial is expected to be lengthy, with a verdict anticipated by December 19, 2025, as most defendants remain silent or deny the charges through legal representation.