Police secure conviction of 21 foreign nationals in Abuja cybercrime case

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a significant victory in its fight against cybercrime, securing the conviction of 21 foreign nationals involved in a major internet fraud syndicate uncovered in Abuja in November 2024.

Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Muyiwa Adejobi, announced the development on Sunday, recalling that police operatives conducted a coordinated raid on November 3, 2024, at a building in the Jahi area of Abuja, following credible intelligence.

The operation led to the arrest of 130 suspects including 113 foreign nationals, mainly of Chinese and Malaysian origin, and 17 Nigerian accomplices, allegedly linked to large-scale internet fraud, hacking, and other cybercrimes considered threats to Nigeria’s national security and economic stability.

After months of investigation, the suspects were arraigned in court on December 2, 2024.

Adejobi noted that the trial was backed by robust digital forensic evidence and expert testimony.

“As of Friday, August 1, 2025, twenty-one of the accused have been convicted and sentenced by a competent court,” he said, adding that prosecution of the remaining suspects is ongoing in partnership with the Ministry of Justice.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reiterated the Force’s commitment to tackling cybercrime, stressing that the convictions send a clear warning to cybercriminals, both within and outside Nigeria, that the country will not serve as a safe haven.

The Police assured the public of continued use of advanced technology, strengthened international partnerships, and thorough investigations to dismantle organized cybercrime networks. Updates on ongoing prosecutions will be provided as court proceedings progress.