Nigerian authorities have deported 51 more foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud, in what officials describe as one of the country’s largest crackdowns on international cybercrime syndicates
The joint operation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) saw the repatriation of 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian on Wednesday. They were among the 192 foreigners arrested in Lagos last year during a sting operation that targeted a massive foreign-led cybercrime network.
According to investigators, the syndicate specialised in romance scams, fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes, and other online frauds that exploited social media platforms and messaging apps. The Lagos raid, which uncovered a large operational hub in Victoria Island, was described by security officials as a “major breakthrough” in Nigeria’s cybercrime war.
The latest deportations bring the total number of convicted foreign nationals repatriated since the exercise began on August 15 to 102. Officials said more deportations will follow as court processes for the remaining suspects are concluded.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the exercise sends a clear warning to cybercriminals that Nigeria will no longer serve as a haven for international fraudsters. “This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s digital space and restoring confidence in the nation’s economy,” he said.
Legal documents show that the deportees were sentenced by the Federal High Court in Lagos to prison terms and fines under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, after which deportation orders were issued. The EFCC also secured the forfeiture of over $220,000 in seized digital assets linked to the network.
In recent years, Nigeria has faced growing scrutiny over the global reputation of its cybercrime challenges, often tagged as “Yahoo Yahoo.” However, authorities insist that the latest operation highlights a shift in focus towards foreign-led syndicates operating within the country’s borders.
The government has pledged to strengthen its cybercrime laws, tighten immigration monitoring, and expand partnerships with international law enforcement agencies to ensure that foreign criminal networks are dismantled and prosecuted.
Boluwatife Enome
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