Six Nigerian nationals have been extradited from South Africa to the United States to face federal charges linked to alleged internet-based fraud schemes, including romance scams.

The suspects were extradited to Gulfport, Mississippi, where they are expected to face a nine-count federal indictment in the Southern District of Mississippi.

According to information from U.S. authorities, the case involves allegations of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, identity theft, unauthorised use of account-access devices, theft of U.S. government funds and money laundering.

The six Nigerians were identified as Oladimeji Seun Ayelotan, Rasaq Aderoju Raheem, Olusegun Seyi Shonekan, Taofeeq Olamilekan Oyelade, Olufemi Obaro Omoraka and Anuoluwapo Segun Adegbemigun.

Authorities allege that the wider group operated several internet-based fraud schemes, including romance scams, re-shipping scams, fraudulent cheque schemes and work-from-home scams, alongside bank and credit-card account takeovers.

In the alleged romance scams, suspects reportedly used online dating platforms to establish relationships with victims before attempting to obtain money or involve them in other fraudulent activities.

The U.S. authorities said the investigation involved several agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from South African law-enforcement and justice authorities.

The extradition forms part of a broader international effort to investigate and prosecute cross-border financial and cyber-enabled fraud.