Police Secure Conviction of 21 Foreign Nationals Cybercriminals
The Nigeria Police Force has secured the conviction of 21 foreign nationals linked to a major cybercrime syndicate uncovered in Abuja late last year. The convicts, who were part of a larger group arrested during a coordinated raid in November 2024, were sentenced on Friday, August 1, 2025, by a competent court after months of trial.
The syndicate was busted on November 3, 2024, when police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, stormed a building in the Jahi area of Abuja. The operation led to the arrest of 130 suspects, including 113 foreign nationals, mainly of Chinese and Malaysian origin, and 17 Nigerian collaborators. Authorities said the suspects were involved in large-scale internet fraud, hacking operations, and other cyber-related crimes that posed serious threats to Nigeria’s national security and economic stability.
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Following weeks of investigation, the suspects were arraigned in court on December 2, 2024. The prosecution, supported by robust digital forensic evidence and expert testimony, led to the conviction of 21 defendants, while trials for the remaining suspects are ongoing. The police said they are working with the Ministry of Justice to ensure all those involved are held accountable.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, described the court ruling as a strong warning to cybercriminals, both within and outside Nigeria, that the country will not serve as a safe haven for illicit online activities.
He added that the police will continue to deploy advanced technology, strengthen international cooperation, and apply diligent investigative methods to dismantle organized cybercrime networks. The Force also promised to provide further updates as other cases progress in court.
By PRNigeria
