A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has sentenced 14 Chinese nationals to one year in prison for cyber-terrorism and Internet fraud. The suspects were part of a cybercrime syndicate that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) dismantled during a sting operation in December 2024.
According to a post on the EFCC’s official X account, the 14 were among 792 suspects arrested. They allegedly ran cryptocurrency investment scams and romance fraud schemes, targeting Nigerians and international victims.
The suspects faced separate charges before Justice Daniel Osiagor. One charge accused Su Zong Gen of accessing a computer system in Lagos to destabilize Nigeria’s economy and social structure. Notably, all 14 defendants initially pleaded not guilty.
However, during Friday’s court session, they changed their pleas to guilty. Consequently, prosecutors T.J. Banjo and M.S. Owede asked the court to convict them. The defense team raised no objection, making it easier for the court to proceed with sentencing.
As a result, Justice Osiagor handed each convict a one-year prison term with an option of a ₦1 million fine. Additionally, he ordered the Nigeria Immigration Service to deport them to China within seven days after completing the sentence or paying the fine.
Moreover, the judge ruled that all items recovered from the convicts during the arrest be forfeited to the Federal Government. These items include digital devices and documents linked to the cybercrime activities.
The convicted individuals include: Su Zong Gen, Li Zhong Chang, Chen Gui Ping, Li Xiang Long, San Feng Zhang, Jia Yang, Jia Zhi Hao, Liu Chuang, Yu Hai Ging, Zhao Xiao Liang, Dai Li, Tao Kun, Mao Bu Yi, and Zhao Zi Cheng.
The EFCC described the verdict as a major win in the fight against transnational cybercrime. Furthermore, the agency emphasized that any group or individual targeting Nigeria’s digital systems will face strict legal consequences.
Legal analysts have called the case a landmark. According to them, it proves Nigeria’s justice system can handle complex cybercrime cases efficiently. Additionally, the ruling demonstrates a growing resolve to clamp down on foreign-led digital fraud networks.
Importantly, the conviction of these Chinese nationals jailed for cyber-terrorism reinforces the need for international cooperation. Security experts urge countries to work together more closely to track cybercriminals across borders and stop global fraud networks.
Going forward, the EFCC plans to intensify its efforts. The agency said it will continue to pursue and prosecute anyone involved in cyber-related offenses. With more surveillance tools and stronger laws, Nigerian authorities aim to secure the nation’s cyberspace.
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