The Nigeria Police Force has secured the conviction of 21 foreign nationals involved in a high-profile cybercrime syndicate uncovered in Abuja in November 2024.
According to a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the convicts were part of a group arrested during a coordinated police operation in Jahi, Abuja, on November 3, 2024.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives raided the building and arrested 130 suspects — 113 foreign nationals, mostly of Chinese and Malaysian origin, and 17 Nigerian collaborators.
The suspects were accused of engaging in large-scale internet fraud, hacking operations, and other cyber offences threatening Nigeria’s national security and economic stability.
Following investigations, the case was taken to court on December 2, 2024.
With the presentation of robust digital forensic evidence and expert testimonies, 21 of the accused were convicted and sentenced by a competent court on August 1, 2025.
Prosecution of the remaining suspects is ongoing in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the convictions send a strong message that Nigeria will not be a safe haven for cybercriminals, whether local or international.
He pledged the Force’s commitment to using advanced technology, international partnerships, and diligent investigations to dismantle organised cybercrime networks.
The Police assured that updates on the ongoing trials would be provided as the cases progress.
