A former footballer who impersonated Chelsea youngster Gael Kakuta has been sentenced to four years.
Medi Abalimba, himself a former player for Derby County, Fulham, Crystal Palace, Oldham Athletic and Southend United, was found guilty of multiple fraud offences totalling £53,000.
Abalimba masqueraded as Kakuta, a France U21 international on loan from Chelsea with Spanish side Rayo Vallecano.
Abalimba used his assumed identity, credit cards and more to gain VIP treatment at nightclubs, eat at expensive restaurants, stay in hotels, order clothes, travel everywhere in limousines and attract women.
Sergeant Adam Cronshaw told reporters: “Having spoken with many of the victims in this case it appears that Abalimba is a charming and charismatic individual who was able to call on his previous football experience and the fact he bears some resemblance to the real Gael Kakuta to deceive them.
“He was able to trick most people he came across and grew in confidence the longer the charade continued. He became so skilled in lies and deceit that his character went from being plausible to unquestionable.
“I’m glad we were able to catch him and prevent further loss to other potential victims as he showed no signs of halting his activity. I hope more businesses are now aware of this scam and have the necessary security measures in place to prevent similar occurrences.”
