FBI Arrests First Individual from New “Most Wanted Scammers” List
The FBI has made its first arrest from a recently released “Most Wanted Scammers” list, apprehending former grocery store owner Saeed Abdullahi Eleg.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced the arrest of Eleg, 47, on Wednesday as part of a broader initiative to combat widespread fraud. This news was reported by various outlets.
“This is a historic moment. It’s the first arrest ever of someone on the Most Wanted Fraudsters list, which was unveiled last week by the White House Task Force,” Patel noted in his statement.
Eleg faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud itself, and money laundering. Interestingly, he reportedly turned himself into federal authorities after reaching out through his lawyer the day following the list’s announcement, expressing his intent to return to the U.S.
According to officials, Eleg has been wanted since 2024 for allegedly obtaining over $4.2 million fraudulently from federal child nutrition programs during the pandemic.
He was managing Everygreen Grocery and Deli in Minneapolis under the nonprofit Feeding Our Future, as noted by federal authorities.
Prosecutors claim Eleg falsely stated he was providing 3,000 meals twice daily to children in need while illegally securing government subsidies. Allegedly, he funneled the money through foreign bank accounts and used proceeds to fund a lavish lifestyle.
“Under the leadership of Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force on Combating Fraud, we established the notable ‘Most Wanted Fraud’ list to pursue those who have exploited American taxpayers,” Patel said.
Mr. Patel emphasized this is only the beginning. “It’s time to hold accountable those who have taken advantage of the system,” he stated.
“This historic outcome marks just the start. Consider this a warning to fraudsters: We will track you down,” Patel warned.
Reports indicate that Eleg’s wife, Nazimo Ahmen, who also worked for the company and received compensation directly from Feeding Our Future, pleaded guilty to money laundering last year and awaits sentencing later this month.
The arrest of Eleg aligns with the Justice Department’s recent establishment of the National Fraud Enforcement Office, led by Vice President J.D. Vance, in response to President Trump’s Anti-Fraud Task Force initiatives.
