Managing Director of Ontario Oil and Gas Limited, Walter Wagbatsoma, has been extradited to the United Kingdom from Germany to face charges bordering on money laundering.
The Nigerian oil and gas big boy was reportedly extradited to the UK on Thursday and was charged with conspiracy to money laundering.
He was detained in June 2016 in Germany after Lincolnshire Police issued a European Arrest Warrant on him.
According to a UK-based newspaper, Lincolnshire Echo, Wagbatsoma, 46, appeared before Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
The Economic Crime Unit of Lincolnshire Police said it had been conducting a major investigation with the National Health Service involving offences of fraud and money laundering in excess of £12 million.
According to the agency on its website, “Since such time the investigation has linked 20 other offences where the victims include other NHS Trusts, the States of Guernsey Government and other public bodies.
“In September 2015, as a result of this investigation, 15 suspects were charged with offences of conspiracy to defraud, money laundering and conspiracy to money launder and all have since been indicted to stand trial.
“On Monday, June 6, 2016, a further suspect was detained in Germany following the issue of a European Arrest Warrant by Lincolnshire Police.”
Wagbatsoma, who is facing a nine-count charge bordering on fraud involving N1.9 billion oil subsidy scam, has been remanded in custody and is expected to appear before Lincoln Crown Court in August.
