Nigerian Court Jails 15 Chinese Nationals In Lagos For Cyberterrorism, Internet Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has successfully secured the conviction and sentencing of 15 Chinese nationals in Lagos for offenses related to cyberterrorism and internet fraud.

According to a statement released by the EFCC, the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 successfully prosecuted the suspects before two Federal High Court Judges sitting in Ikoyi — Justice Ayokunle Faji and Justice Dehinde Dipeolu.

"The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction and sentencing of 15 Chinese, for cyber-terrorism and internet fraud before two Federal High Court Judges sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos; Justice Ayokunle Faji and Justice Dehinde Dipeolu," the EFCC said.

The convicted individuals were identified as Ling Yang, Xiao Hong Will, Wang Zheng Ming, Wang Jia Qi, Yang Sheng, Peng Sen Lin, Guo Xiao Fei, Chen An Shun, Peng Sen Lin, Zhao Ying Bin, Yu Zi aka Wei Xue Huan, Zhang Yang, Wang Zhi Cheng, Yang Sheng, and Lu Yubo.

"The suspects were arraigned on separate charges bordering on cyber-terrorism and internet fraud," the commission added.

The latest conviction comes just weeks after SaharaReporters reported the sentencing of 14 other Chinese nationals for similar offences.

In that case, the EFCC secured a conviction before Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos. The convicted individuals were identified as Su Zong Gen, Li Zhong Chang, Chen Gui Ping, Li Xiang Long, San Feng Zhang, Jia Yang, Jia Zhi Hao, Liu Chuang, Yu Hai Ging, Zhao Xiao Liang, Dai Li, Tao Kun, Mao Bu Yi, and Zhao Zi Cheng.

The commission had accused the group of operating a highly organised cyber syndicate involved in online scams, identity theft, and acts of digital espionage, targeting both local and international victims.

Justice Osiagor, after reviewing the evidence presented by the EFCC, found all 14 defendants guilty as charged. He imposed sentences in line with Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and other relevant legislation.

While the precise jail terms and forfeiture details are expected to be specified in the court’s sentencing order, the convictions mark a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to clamp down on transnational cybercrime.