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Efcc Arraigns Nine Chinese Nationals For Alleged Cyber-Terrorism And Internet Fraud
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally arraigned nine Chinese nationals and a company, Genting International Co. Ltd., on multiple charges related to cyber-terrorism and internet fraud. The defendants appeared before Justice C.J. Aneke at the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday, February 6, 2025.
Identities of the Defendants
The EFCC identified the accused individuals as Su Dong Fu, Zheng Xian Tao, Wang Shi Long, Pan Cai Qi, Ting Liao, Fan Jia, Feng Li Cani, Lu Yong Yao, and Yang Chen Cheng. These individuals were allegedly part of a larger syndicate comprising 792 suspects linked to cryptocurrency investment scams and romance fraud. The syndicate members were apprehended on December 10, 2024, during a well-coordinated operation named Eagle Flush Operation by EFCC operatives in Lagos.
Charges and Allegations
The suspects face separate charges encompassing various cyber-related offenses, including cyber-terrorism, cybercrimes, possession of fraudulent documents, and identity theft. According to the EFCC, their activities posed a significant threat to Nigeria's economic stability and social structure.
One of the charges filed against them states:
"That you, Zeng Xian Tao (also known as A Tao and Zhou Tao), along with Genting International Co. Limited, in December 2024, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, willfully accessed computer systems with the intent to destabilize and disrupt Nigeria's economy and social structure. This act constitutes an offense under Section 18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015 (as Amended in 2024) and Section 2(3) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022."
Court Proceedings and Pleas
Upon the reading of the charges, all nine defendants pleaded "not guilty." Following their pleas, the prosecution counsel, M.K. Bashir, urged the court to set trial dates and requested that the accused be remanded in a correctional facility pending trial.
Justice C.J. Aneke subsequently scheduled the trial for February 21 and March 7, 2025. Until then, the defendants will remain in custody at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.
EFCC's Commitment to Combating Cybercrime
The EFCC has intensified efforts to clamp down on cybercriminal networks operating within Nigeria. The Eagle Flush Operation is part of a broader strategy aimed at dismantling fraudulent online schemes that prey on unsuspecting victims, both locally and internationally.
Authorities continue to warn individuals and businesses about the rising threat of internet fraud and cyber-terrorism, urging vigilance against suspicious investment schemes and online fraudsters.
Implications of the Case
This high-profile case underscores Nigeria’s firm stance on cyber-related crimes and highlights the government’s determination to uphold its cybersecurity laws. If found guilty, the defendants could face severe legal consequences, reinforcing the message that cybercrime will not be tolerated in Nigeria.
The EFCC remains committed to protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s financial ecosystem and ensuring that justice is served against individuals and entities engaging in fraudulent activities. As the trial progresses, stakeholders will closely monitor developments, with expectations that it will serve as a precedent for future cybercrime-related prosecutions.
