Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged nine Chinese nationals and a company, Genting International Co. Ltd., with cyber-terrorism and internet fraud. They were brought before Justice C.J. Aneke at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday.
What Are the Charges?
The EFCC alleges that these individuals were part of a larger network of 792 suspects arrested on December 10, 2024, during Operation “Eagle Flush” in Lagos. Their alleged crimes include:
Cybercrimes – using computers for illegal activities.
Cyber-terrorism – actions intended to disrupt Nigeria’s economy and security through online means.
Identity theft – stealing people’s personal information to commit fraud.
Possession of fraudulent documents – holding fake documents used for scams.
According to the EFCC, their activities posed a serious threat to Nigeria’s economic and social stability.
Who Are the Accused?
The nine Chinese nationals charged are:
- Su Dong Fu
- Zheng Xian Tao (aka A Tao/Zhou Tao)
- Wang Shi Long
- Pan Cai Qi
- Ting Liao
- Fan Jia
- Feng Li Cani
- Lu Yong Yao
- Yang Chen Cheng
They were allegedly working under Genting International Co. Ltd., which is also facing charges.
Court Proceedings
When brought before the court, all nine pleaded “not guilty”. EFCC’s lawyer, M.K. Bashir, requested that the suspects remain in custody until their trial begins. Justice C.J. Aneke granted the request, scheduling trial dates for February 21, 2025, and March 7, 2025. Until then, the defendants will be held at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.
More Suspects in the Case
This is part of a wider crackdown. Earlier in the week, the EFCC also arraigned:
29 Chinese nationals
10 Filipinos
1 Malaysian
1 Indonesian
1 Pakistani
These individuals, linked to Genting International Co. Ltd., were charged with similar offences as part of Operation “Eagle Flush.”
What’s Next?
The court will determine their fate in the coming months. If found guilty, they could face severe legal consequences under Nigerian cybercrime laws.
Why This Matters
This case highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and its impact on national security and the economy. The EFCC’s efforts signal a strong stance against online fraud, identity theft, and cyber-terrorism.
The trial will continue in 2025. Stay tuned for updates as justice takes its course!
