How a Former US Researcher Ended Up in Nigeria for Money Laundering and Tax EvasionHow a Former US Researcher Ended Up in Nigeria for Money Laundering and Tax Evasion A former researcher at a prestigious US university found himself in the unfamiliar territory of Nigeria, facing charges of money laundering and tax evasion. This is the story of how Dr. Michael Bento, a highly respected scientist, embarked on a path that would lead to his downfall. Dr. Bento started his academic career at Stanford University, where he earned his doctorate in economics. After graduating, he embarked on a promising research career at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he published widely and gained international recognition. However, in 2010, Dr. Bento’s path took an unexpected turn. He left his academic position and established a consulting company based in Las Vegas. This marked the beginning of his involvement in the murky world of finance. Through his consulting work, Dr. Bento came into contact with individuals involved in fraudulent schemes. He allegedly assisted in money laundering operations, helping individuals move illicit funds into and out of the United States. He also allegedly evaded taxes by concealing his income and assets. As Dr. Bento’s financial dealings became more complex, he sought to move his wealth offshore. He chose Nigeria, a country with a lax financial regulatory environment, as his destination. In 2017, Dr. Bento transferred millions of dollars to Nigeria through various shell companies. He allegedly used these funds to purchase properties and establish businesses in the West African country. His efforts to conceal his assets were, however, short-lived. In 2019, US authorities became aware of Dr. Bento’s activities in Nigeria. They launched an investigation that uncovered his alleged involvement in money laundering and tax evasion. A warrant for his arrest was issued. Dr. Bento, sensing the impending doom, fled the United States and sought refuge in Nigeria. However, the Nigerian authorities, under pressure from the US government, arrested him in 2020. He has been in custody in Nigeria ever since, awaiting extradition to the United States. The case of Dr. Michael Bento serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the consequences of crossing the line from legitimate financial activities to criminal behavior. It highlights the lengths to which individuals will go to conceal their illicit gains and evade justice.
How a former US researcher ended up in Nigeria for money laundering and tax evasionthe1a.org
