The Nigeria Police Force has secured the conviction of 21 foreign nationals linked to a major cybercrime syndicate, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing fight against internet fraud and threats to national security.
According to a press release on Sunday, 10th August 2025, signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the syndicate was uncovered during a coordinated police raid on November 3, 2024, in Jahi, Abuja, following actionable intelligence. The operation led to the arrest of 130 suspects, including 113 foreign nationals—mainly of Chinese and Malaysian origin—and 17 Nigerian accomplices. The suspects were accused of engaging in large-scale internet fraud, hacking, and other offences capable of undermining the country’s economic stability and security.
After months of painstaking investigations, backed by digital forensic evidence and expert testimonies, the suspects were arraigned in court on December 2, 2024. On August 1, 2025, a competent court found 21 of the defendants guilty and sentenced them accordingly. Prosecution of the remaining suspects is ongoing, with the Police working closely with the Ministry of Justice to ensure full accountability.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the convictions send a clear warning to both local and foreign cybercriminals that Nigeria will not be a safe haven for such crimes. He pledged that the Force will continue deploying advanced technology, fostering international cooperation, and conducting thorough investigations to dismantle organized cybercrime networks.
Further updates on the prosecutions will be provided as the trials progress.
