The EFCC arraigned 11 Chinese nationals and a company in Lagos for alleged cyber-terrorism and internet fraud. Accused of identity theft and financial scams, they pleaded not guilty. Justice Aneke scheduled their trial for March 2025, ordering their detention. The EFCC continues its crackdown on cyber-related crimes in Nigeria.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought charges against 11 Chinese nationals and a company, Genting International Co. Ltd, in Lagos over alleged cyber-related offenses. The defendants appeared before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi on Friday, February 14, 2025.
The individuals, including Li Niu, Xiao Qinyun, Fu Zheng Yang, and several others, were accused of participating in a large-scale cyber fraud network. Authorities allege that they were part of a broader syndicate of nearly 800 people linked to cryptocurrency scams and romance fraud operations. These suspects were initially apprehended in December 2024 during a surprise EFCC raid dubbed "Eagle Flush Operation."
Charges brought against them include cyber-terrorism, identity theft, and internet fraud. The prosecution alleges that one of the defendants, Bei Bei Linde Jun, played a key role in accessing computer systems with the intent to disrupt Nigeria’s social and economic stability. Another defendant, Li Niu, was accused of using a fraudulent online identity to deceive victims.
During the court proceedings, all 11 defendants pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the accused individuals in custody. Justice Aneke subsequently ordered their detention at Ikoyi and Kirikiri Correctional Centers, setting the trial dates for March 14 and 21, 2025.
The case highlights Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime and protect its financial systems from fraudulent activities.
