In a recent crackdown on cybercrime, Nigeria has deported over 100 foreign nationals, including 50 Chinese, linked to a major fraud syndicate. The operation highlights the ongoing battle against internet fraud in the country, which has seen a surge in cases tied to unemployment and weak regulatory frameworks.
Nigeria Cracks Down on Massive Cybercrime Syndicate; 50 Chinese Nationals Deported
Nigeria Cracks Down on Massive Cybercrime Syndicate; 50 Chinese Nationals Deported
Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission carries out a significant operation to tackle foreign-led cybercrime, resulting in the deportation of 102 convicted individuals.
Nigeria has intensified its fight against cybercrime with a significant crackdown resulting in the deportation of over 100 foreign nationals, including 50 from China. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced that these individuals were implicated in one of the largest foreign-led cybercrime syndicates operating within the country.
Following their arrest during a sting operation in Lagos last week, a total of 192 foreigners were apprehended. Among them, 148 were identified as Chinese nationals. The EFCC revealed that these individuals had been found guilty of cyberterrorism and internet fraud, which prompted their swift repatriation.
This coordinated effort, named "Eagle Flush," was initiated after the EFCC received "actionable intelligence" about the syndicate's operations. It underscores the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces with cybercrime, particularly internet fraud and romance scams, which have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. The EFCC reported that such cyber-related crimes were among the most common offenses recorded last year.
Authorities have pointed out that the rise in cybercrime is largely due to high unemployment rates, the desire for quick wealth among young people, and insufficient regulatory frameworks. Following a previous operation in December, in which nearly 800 suspects were arrested—most of whom were Chinese and Filipino—this latest action is part of a continuing effort to dismantle sophisticated scamming networks collaborating with local criminals.
In response to these activities, social media companies have also taken action. Last year, Meta, the parent company of Instagram, removed thousands of accounts involved in sextortion schemes targeting vulnerable individuals.
As the EFCC prepares for additional deportations in the coming days, the fight against cybercrime in Nigeria remains a top priority, with authorities reminding citizens to be vigilant against scams that have been perpetuated through social media platforms and other online channels.
