By Cyber-terrorism and fraud
Nine Chinese nationals jailed in Nigeria
Summary
- EFCC’s “Eagle Flush” operation leads to conviction of nine foreign suspects
- Offenders sentenced after guilty plea and fined ₦1 million each
- Court orders deportation and seizure of digital equipment used in crimes
Lagos, Nigeria — A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has sentenced nine Chinese nationals to one year in prison each for their roles in a cyber-terrorism and internet fraud syndicate. The convictions followed a plea bargain deal with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The convicts, Li Dong, Deng Wei Qiang, Huang Bo, Xiong Zhen, Lai Rui Feng, Zhao Xiao Hui, Lui Hai Rong, Lui Gang, and Du Ji Feng, were among 792 individuals arrested during “Eagle Flush,” a sweeping EFCC operation on December 19, 2024, targeting cryptocurrency investment and romance scams in Lagos.
According to the EFCC, the group recruited Nigerian youths to impersonate foreign nationals and defraud individuals and institutions using social engineering and advanced technology. Their actions violated Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act.
Initially pleading not guilty in February 2025, the defendants reversed their stance and admitted guilt on June 5.
Justice Daniel Osiagor sentenced each to one year in prison, imposed a ₦1 million fine (approximately $640), and ordered their deportation to China within seven days of completing their jail terms. All seized items, including laptops and other digital tools, were forfeited to the Nigerian government.
The EFCC hailed the crackdown as its biggest single-day cybercrime operation, noting that 158 foreign nationals were among those arrested at a building on Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island.
In response, China’s ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, expressed regret over the involvement of Chinese citizens and reaffirmed China’s dedication to fighting cybercrime. He suggested forming a joint working group to assist Nigerian authorities in further investigations.
