United States Places $25,000 Bounty on Nigerian Fugitive Facing Murder Trial

The United States has announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian fugitive wanted for allegedly murdering his three-month-old son in Rhode Island. The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) added Olawusi to its “15 Most Wanted” list, intensifying the search for the fugitive believed to be hiding in Nigeria. Supervisory Deputy United States. Marshal Don Freeman expressed the urgency of the case, highlighting Olawusi’s potential threat to children and the broader public.

Olawusi’s case has garnered significant public attention due to the severity of the charges against him, including first-degree murder and inflicting bodily harm on a child. Freeman emphasized that the United States Marshals are committed to deploying all available resources to ensure Olawusi’s capture and accountability, describing the pursuit of justice as critical for the family and community affected by the alleged crime.

Shocking Details of the Child’s Death Revealed

The disturbing events leading to Olawusi’s charges began on April 3, 2017, when police and fire personnel in Providence, Rhode Island, responded to an emergency at Olawusi’s residence, finding his son in critical condition. The infant, discovered with severe bleeding from his mouth and nose, was rushed to the hospital where medical staff fought to resuscitate him. After regaining a pulse, doctors conducted a thorough examination, uncovering 18 separate injuries in various stages of healing. These included skull fractures, brain injuries, and fractures in the child’s ribs, clavicle, arms, and legs.

Hospital staff immediately flagged the injuries as signs of long-term abuse, leading to Olawusi’s initial arrest. However, despite the overwhelming evidence, Olawusi was released the same day of his arraignment on April 20, 2017, pending trial. Tragically, the child remained on life support until he passed away six months later on October 31, 2017, prompting authorities to add a murder charge to Olawusi’s case.

Fugitive Flees to Nigeria, Evades Capture

Shortly after his release, Olawusi reportedly fled the United States, with investigators discovering that he left the country on June 20, 2017. United States authorities believe he sought assistance from family members in Nigeria to facilitate his escape. Despite repeated efforts to locate and bring him back to the United States to face trial, Olawusi has evaded capture for over seven years, prompting the United States Marshals to increase the reward for any information leading to his apprehension.

Freeman highlighted the importance of public cooperation, especially in Nigeria, where Olawusi is suspected to be hiding. The U.S. government has reached out to its international law enforcement partners and urged the public to assist in tracking down the fugitive, stressing that Olawusi’s actions pose a direct danger to society.

Public Appeal: Description and Contact Information for Tips

The United States Marshals have issued a detailed description of Olawusi, urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward. According to the statement, Olawusi, who may also use the alias “Olekun Olawusi,” is approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing around 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Authorities are especially concerned about his potential threat level and have included him in their most critical category of fugitives.

Freeman explained that Olawusi’s placement on the “15 Most Wanted” list was not only a measure of the seriousness of his alleged crimes but also a reflection of the danger he poses. Any individual with knowledge of his location is encouraged to report tips directly to the U.S. Marshals or local law enforcement agencies. The public can contact the U.S. Marshals Service or report tips anonymously through their official website, with the assurance that all credible information will be carefully investigated.

U.S. Marshals’ Commitment to Justice

The case underscores the U.S. Marshals’ dedication to apprehending fugitives charged with violent crimes. The agency’s focus on bringing Olawusi to justice extends beyond national boundaries, reflecting a commitment to international cooperation in cases involving child abuse and murder. Freeman reiterated that “Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child and has fled the country to avoid justice.”

The U.S. Marshals Service remains committed to its mission to protect the public and seek justice for victims. This case, Freeman noted, serves as a testament to the agency’s resolve in tracking down fugitives and ensuring they face the full weight of the law, regardless of where they may hide. The $25,000 reward symbolizes the Marshals’ ongoing efforts to bring closure to a family and community still grappling with the impact of Olawusi’s alleged actions.