14 Chinese Nationals Jailed and Face Deportation for Cybercrime in Nigeria

Gist Reports | June 28, 2025

A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has sentenced 14 Chinese nationals to one year in prison each for involvement in cyber-terrorism and internet fraud.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealed that the group was arrested during a sting operation in Lagos on December 19, 2024. They were part of a cybercrime syndicate involved in cryptocurrency scams and fake online relationships targeting Nigerians. In total, 792 suspects were arrested during the operation.

The 14 individuals initially pleaded not guilty but changed their plea to guilty in court. The prosecution, led by T.J. Banjo and M.S. Owede, asked the court to convict them, and the defense raised no objections.

Justice Daniel Osiagor sentenced each person to one year in prison, with the option to pay a ₦1 million fine instead of serving the jail term. After serving their sentence or paying the fine, the court ordered their deportation to China within seven days, to be carried out by the Nigeria Immigration Service.

In addition, all items recovered from the suspects during the arrest were forfeited to the Nigerian government.

Names of Convicted Chinese Nationals:

1. Su Zong Gen
2. Li Zhong Chang
3. Chen Gui Ping
4. Li Xiang Long
5. San Feng Zhang
6. Jia Yang
7. Jia Zhi Hao
8. Liu Chuang
9. Yu Hai Ging
10. Zhao Xiao Liang
11. Dai Li
12. Tao Kun
13. Mao Bu Yi

14. Zhao Zi Cheng