In one of the country’s largest crackdowns on international cybercrime, Nigerian authorities have deported 51 foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud.
The deportees—50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian—were sent back to their home countries following a joint operation between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS). They were part of a group of 192 foreign suspects arrested in Lagos last year during a coordinated sting targeting a large-scale, foreign-led cybercrime syndicate.
Investigators say the network specialized in romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and other forms of online deception that exploited social media platforms and messaging apps. The syndicate had operated out of a massive hub discovered on Victoria Island, Lagos, described by officials as a major base for coordinated international fraud.
The latest deportations bring the number of foreign nationals repatriated since August 15 to 102, with more expected as legal proceedings against other suspects continue.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the operation marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s battle against cybercrime.
“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and restoring confidence in our economy. Nigeria will not be a safe haven for international fraudsters,” Oyewale said.
Court documents reveal that the convicted individuals received various prison sentences and fines under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act. Authorities also secured the forfeiture of over $220,000 in digital assets linked to the network.
The Nigerian government says the operation underscores a strategic shift in its cybercrime efforts—focusing on foreign-led syndicates operating within its borders, not just domestic actors.
Amid ongoing global concerns about Nigeria’s image in cybercrime discourse—often stereotypically linked to “Yahoo Yahoo” schemes—officials say this crackdown signals a new era of cross-border enforcement.
Authorities have pledged to strengthen cybercrime legislation, tighten immigration oversight, and deepen collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to dismantle transnational cybercrime networks.
Nigeria Deports Foreigners in Crackdown on Cybercrime Syndicate
