The Nigeria Police Force has announced the conviction of 21 foreign nationals involved in a major cybercrime syndicate.
According to a statement signed on Sunday by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, the convictions are the result of an intensive investigation into a cybercrime network uncovered in November 2024 in Abuja.
“The syndicate’s activities came to light on November 3, 2024, when police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, carried out a coordinated raid on a building in the Jahi area of Abuja.
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“The operation led to the arrest of 130 suspects, 113 of them foreign nationals, predominantly from China and Malaysia, and 17 Nigerians suspected of collaborating with the group.
“Investigators said the group was engaged in large-scale internet fraud, hacking operations, and other cyber offences with the potential to threaten Nigeria’s national security and economic stability.
“Following months of forensic analysis and legal preparation, the suspects were arraigned on December 2, 2024”, the statement reads.
According to the Police, the trial included extensive digital evidence and expert testimony to establish the scope and impact of the criminal activities.
“On August 1, 2025, 21 members of the syndicate were convicted and sentenced by a competent court.
The trials of the remaining defendants are ongoing, with the Police working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Justice to ensure full prosecution”, the statement added.
Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police, described the convictions as a “clear signal” to cybercriminals worldwide that Nigeria will not serve as a refuge for illicit digital operations.
He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to using advanced technology, cross-border intelligence sharing, and rigorous investigative procedures to dismantle such criminal networks.
“The message is clear: cybercrime will not go unpunished in Nigeria,” Egbetokun stated.
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