Yesterday, Nigerian authorities began deporting 42 convicted cyber terrorists from China and the Philippines as part of a crackdown on international fraud networks.
The deportation is the first wave out of 192 foreigners nabbed for cyber terrorism and Ponzi scheme offences, following a major December 2024 raid in Victoria Island, Lagos. The suspects were arrested at Oyin Jolayemi Street during what officials call one of the nation’s biggest anti-cybercrime operations.
According to the Nigeria Immigration Service, the 42 convicts will be sent home today, August 18, while more deportees are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday to wrap up the process.
All those convicted had earlier been handed over to immigration for processing. The group includes Chinese and Philippine nationals prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). They were found guilty of various offences, such as using fake online identities to defraud people and training staff at Genting International Co. Limited in fraudulent practices, violating Nigeria’s Advance Fee Fraud Act of 2006.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede called the convictions and swift deportations a major win in Nigeria’s fight against cybercrime.
We are intensifying investigations, recovering stolen money, and restoring the country’s dignity, just as President Tinubu’s anti-corruption campaign demands – Olukoyede
Authorities say the December 2024 operation is a turning point against financial crime in Nigeria and a strong warning to foreign syndicates targeting the country.
As the remaining deportations proceed this week, officials pledge more action to block future cyber fraud and protect the nation’s financial systems at all cost.
