As against the claims circulating on social media in Nigeria, convicted fraudster Ramon Abbas, popularly known as Hushpuppi, has not been released.
Hushpuppi, once a prominent Instagram figure in Nigeria, gained fame for flaunting his extravagant lifestyle.
However, in 2020, he was apprehended in Dubai and subsequently sentenced in 2022 by a US court to over 11 years in prison for his involvement in a conspiracy to launder tens of millions of dollars from online fraud.
Following his arrest, Hushpuppi’s Instagram account was deactivated two years
Claims have recently surfaced suggesting his release, accompanied by screenshots of tweets asserting that he has completed his sentence. Many users have responded positively to this supposed development, offering congratulations.
A particular post states: “Hushpuppi has finally been released!!!”
This post includes a screenshot of a tweet asserting that Abbas has served his sentence. Numerous users responded favorably to this alleged update, offering congratulations.
The same claim appeared on Facebook here, here, here and here.
However, upon investigation, there is no evidence to support the assertion of Hushpuppi’s release. His initial arrest, trial, and sentencing were extensively covered by both local and international media.
If he had been released, it would have been widely reported by credible news outlets, but no such reports have been found.
Africa Check
