Five Chinese Nationals Jailed in Nigeria Over Cybercrime and Online Fraud Schemes
Convictions mark a major step in Nigeria’s effort to dismantle global cyber syndicates exploiting digital platforms.
LAGOS, Nigeria | July 1, 2025
A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced five Chinese nationals to one year in prison each for their involvement in cyberterrorism and internet fraud, following a sweeping anti-cybercrime crackdown led by Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Dehinde Dipeolu delivered the judgment on Tuesday, convicting Guo Qiang (also known as Wu You You), Yang Shumei, Guo Zhi Yong, Zhang Gia Feng, and Lu Yi Liang, who were apprehended during “Eagle Flush”—a nationwide sting operation conducted by the EFCC in December 2024.
The five were among nearly 800 suspects arrested as part of the coordinated raid targeting cybercrime networks operating under the guise of cryptocurrency investment platforms and online romance scams. Authorities believe the schemes defrauded hundreds of victims both within Nigeria and internationally.
Each defendant was arraigned separately on charges related to cyberterrorism and internet fraud, under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act of 2015, recently amended in 2024. A charge against Guo Qiang alleged he accessed Nigerian computer systems with the intent to destabilize the nation’s economy and social structures—an act classified under Section 18 of the Cybercrime Act.
Initially pleading not guilty, all five individuals changed their pleas during Tuesday’s hearing. Prosecution counsel U.S. Kyari requested the court proceed with conviction based on the admissions of guilt.
In addition to the prison terms, Justice Dipeolu imposed an option of a ₦1 million fine for each convict and directed the Nigeria Immigration Service to deport them within seven days after completing their sentences.
The convictions add to a growing list of legal outcomes linked to the EFCC’s Eagle Flush Operation, described by officials as Nigeria’s largest coordinated action against digital fraud networks.
The initiative, bolstered by intelligence from international law enforcement bodies, has uncovered cyber rings operating from upscale residences and tech hubs in major cities including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
Authorities warn that cyberterrorism remains a significant threat to the nation’s digital infrastructure and financial stability.
