The Nigerian Immigration Service, in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has commenced the deportation of several foreign nationals recently convicted for cyber terrorism and Ponzi scheme-related offences.
On Sunday, 42 out of 192 Chinese and Philippine nationals—convicted by the Federal High Court in Lagos—were deported to their home countries. This marks the first phase of deportations following a December 10, 2024, raid by the EFCC on Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, during which 759 suspects were arrested.
The first batch of deportees departed Nigeria around 2:00 p.m. local time. According to the EFCC, additional deportations are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, involving the remaining convicts who have all been officially handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service.
The EFCC revealed that the convicted syndicate had been operating a sophisticated cyber fraud and Ponzi scheme under the guise of Genting International Co. Limited. Charges against them included identity theft, online fraud, and training individuals in fraudulent practices—violations of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.
In total, 192 foreign nationals—comprising Chinese and Philippine citizens—were convicted through plea bargain agreements. The court ordered their deportation following the completion of their jail terms.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, hailed the convictions and subsequent deportations as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against cybercrime and financial fraud. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to pursuing in-depth investigations, recovering stolen assets, and restoring national integrity—aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption agenda.
The December raid is considered one of the largest anti-cybercrime operations in Nigeria’s history and represents a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to combat transnational financial crimes.
