The Federal High Court in Lagos has convicted 15 Chinese nationals for crimes related to cybercrime and internet fraud. This development underscores the efforts of Nigerian authorities to combat fraudulent activities.
Charges Against Chinese Nationals
The 15 Chinese nationals were charged with cyber-terrorism and internet fraud at a hearing in the Federal High Court in Lagos. According to a notice from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the defendants, including Ling Yang and Xiao Hong Will, faced serious charges under the Cybercrimes Act of 2015.
Sentences and Measures
The judges sentenced each of the convicted individuals to one year in prison along with a fine of 1 million naira. It was also mandated that they be repatriated to China within 7 days upon completing their sentences.
State of Cybercrime in Nigeria
Cybercrime data in Nigeria continues to raise serious concerns. According to a report presented by researchers from the University of Oxford, Nigeria ranks fifth among countries associated with cybercrime. It is estimated that the country loses about $500 million annually due to fraudulent online activities.
The recent convictions reflect the Nigerian government's efforts to combat cybercrime and maintain national security on the global stage.
