First Major Trial Against Nigerian Mafia Begins in Germany

Twelve alleged members of the 'Black Axe,' including the suspected German leader, face charges of organized crime, with proceedings expected to last until December.

• 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.

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