US Marshals Offer $25,000 Reward for Fugitive Nigerian Murder Suspect

The U.S. Marshals Service has announced a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the capture of Nigerian national Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, who faces charges in connection with the alleged abuse and murder of his infant son. Authorities are appealing to the public for any tips that might assist in locating Olawusi, who has been added to the U.S. Marshals’ 15 Most Wanted Fugitives list.

According to a statement from Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman, Olawusi was charged with first-degree murder after his three-month-old son was found with severe injuries on April 3, 2017. Emergency personnel discovered the infant bleeding and in cardiac arrest, with injuries that indicated prolonged abuse. Medical examination revealed multiple fractures and brain injuries, prompting a child abuse charge that later escalated to murder following the child’s death in October 2017.

Freeman explained that Olawusi was initially charged on April 20, 2017, but was released pending trial and fled the U.S. shortly thereafter. Investigations show he may be receiving support from relatives in Nigeria. “Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child and has fled the country to avoid justice,” Freeman stated. “We have placed Mr. Olawusi on our 15 Most Wanted list due to the heinous crimes he’s committed and the threat he continues to pose to the public.”

Authorities describe Olawusi, who may also go by the alias Olekun Olawusi, as standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing around 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. The U.S. Marshals urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to call 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or to submit tips via the USMS Tips App.