The EFCC arraigned 29 Chinese, 10 Filipinos, and others for alleged internet fraud in Lagos. The suspects, arrested during the “Eagle Flush Operation” in December 2024, face charges including cybercrime, identity theft, and cyber-terrorism. The case underscores Nigeria’s efforts to combat rising internet fraud.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken 29 Chinese nationals, 10 Filipinos, and others to court for their involvement in a large-scale internet fraud syndicate in Lagos. The group was arrested during a surprise operation called "Eagle Flush" in December 2024. The suspects are facing multiple charges, including cybercrimes, cyber-terrorism, impersonation, and identity theft, which are punishable under Nigeria's Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act.
Among the accused is the company, Genting International Co. Ltd., which allegedly coordinated the fraudulent activities. The EFCC claims that the defendants were part of a scheme that targeted Nigerian youths for identity theft, forcing them to impersonate foreign nationals to gain financial advantages. Several charges were read out in court, detailing how the suspects accessed computer systems to destabilize Nigeria’s economic and social structures.
The defendants, including individuals with aliases such as "Wei Xue Huan" and "Madison," appeared before separate Federal High Courts. The charges highlight the significant efforts to tackle cybercrime in Nigeria, as the authorities continue to scrutinize international networks involved in internet fraud. The case underscores the country's commitment to combatting internet fraud that has increasingly targeted Nigerians.
