US offers $25,000 reward for Nigerian wanted for murder
A Nigerian man wanted by Rhode Island authorities on charges of murder, child abuse, and fleeing prosecution has been added to the U.S. Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” list. The Marshals are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to his capture.
Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, 48, was charged with first-degree murder and two counts of causing serious bodily harm to a child after emergency responders in Providence found his 3-month-old son severely injured at a residence on April 3, 2017.
The infant was rushed to the hospital in cardiac arrest and required resuscitation to regain a pulse.
A medical examination at the hospital revealed 18 injuries in various stages of healing, indicating prolonged abuse. These injuries included a skull fracture, subdural hematoma, severe brain damage, and fractures to the ribs, clavicle, legs, and arms. Despite being placed on life support, the child tragically passed away six months later.
Providence Police initially arrested Olawusi on April 20, 2017, charging him with first-degree child abuse. He was released the same day but later fled the area. After the child’s death on October 31, 2017, the charge was upgraded to murder.
In November 2017, the Providence Police Department and the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office requested the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in locating Olawusi. Investigations revealed that Olawusi had left the United States on June 20, 2017, departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York using his Nigerian passport.
Authorities believe Olawusi may be receiving support from relatives in Nigeria and have raised concerns that he could pose a continued threat to other children.
“Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child, and he fled the country to evade justice,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald L. Davis. “We have placed him on our 15 Most Wanted list because of the horrific crimes he has committed and the ongoing danger he represents to the public. The USMS will dedicate all necessary resources to ensure he is held accountable, for the sake of his victim’s family and the safety of the community.”
Olawusi, also known as Olekun Olawusi, is approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighs around 185 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes.
Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or through the USMS Tips App.
The “15 Most Wanted” fugitive program, established in 1983, highlights some of the most dangerous and high-profile fugitives in the United States. These individuals often have extensive criminal histories and pose significant threats to public safety.
The list includes individuals considered the “worst of the worst,” such as murderers, sex offenders, major drug traffickers, organized crime figures, and high-profile financial criminals. Since its inception, the program has resulted in the capture of over 250 fugitives.
The U.S. Marshals Service has a long-standing role in assisting other law enforcement agencies with fugitive investigations. In partnership with federal, state, tribal, and local authorities, USMS-led fugitive task forces apprehended more than 73,000 fugitives and resolved nearly 86,000 warrants in fiscal year 2023.
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at NeptunePrime.
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