Mario Nawfal faces FBI and SEC scrutiny over alleged wrongdoings

Federal authorities are currently examining complaints against entrepreneur Mario Nawfal, a rising Twitter audio personality. The complaints have been made by Chet Long, a retired U.S. Air Force analyst, and Sigmund Holtz, a former contractor for Nawfal. These individuals report that they have recently spoken with officials from the FBI and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding their concerns.

Complainants claim embezzlement and tax evasion discussions with Nawfal

Long, who served as an adviser to Nawfal, reported him to various authorities in December. He alleged that Nawfal had embezzled funds from a company where he previously held the position of CEO. Long also claimed that Nawfal openly discussed tax evasion during their conversations. The FBI instructed Long to preserve his cellphone as potential evidence following his initial report. Additionally, Long stated that International Blockchain Consulting, a company in which Nawfal is the majority shareholder, owes him $27,000.

Nawfal, in response to these allegations, denied any outstanding debt to Long and stated that this accusation was the first of its kind. He mentioned having maintained a positive relationship with Long and did not directly address Long's recent tweets alleging emotional harm to his family.

Holtz, when asked for comment, confirmed that he had been contacted by SEC employees who requested specific information about Nawfal.

Nawfal denies legal issues and lack of legitimate investigation grounds

As of now, Nawfal has not publicly addressed the SEC or FBI reports. However, in a WhatsApp message, he claimed to have an impeccable legal record over his decade-long business career. He stated that he has never been contacted by law enforcement agencies due to a lack of legitimate grounds for investigation. Both the SEC and FBI declined to comment.

Nawfal gains online fame with Twitter Spaces discussions, endorsed by Elon Musk

Nawfal has risen to online fame for hosting large Twitter Spaces discussions, often joined by notable figures like Elon Musk. Musk has endorsed Nawfal's content on multiple occasions.

Legal proceedings initiated against Heijdenrijk over alleged breaches

Nonetheless, Nawfal has faced increased scrutiny, including accusations of fraud and business misconduct from former employees, contractors, and clients. Frank Heijdenrijk, a former chief marketing officer of Nawfal's company, tweeted that Nawfal owed him $60,000 in back pay and accused him of embezzlement and inflating his audience with low-quality, paid accounts.

Nawfal stated that he is initiating legal proceedings against Heijdenrijk and claimed that the allegations lack factual accuracy and evidence. He also shared screenshots of messages between himself and Heijdenrijk in which payment demands were made, although direct threats were not apparent.

Heijdenrijk reported receiving an arbitration request from Nawfal's company in December, alleging that he breached a nondisclosure agreement. After NBC News inquired about the situation, Heijdenrijk received notice that the arbitration hearing had been initiated by the arbitration service and International Blockchain Consulting Group, the company led by Nawfal.

Nawfal described Long and Heijdenrijk as "disgruntled" and outliers in his otherwise harmonious professional journey.

These developments come after YouTube personality Chris Zakrzewski initially reported on fraud allegations against Nawfal. In response, Nawfal threatened to sue Zakrzewski, though no formal lawsuit has been located in court records.

Nawfal accused Zakrzewski's videos of being based on assumptions derived from false or incomplete information and indicated his consideration of possible legal action.