Nigerian authorities have deported 51 foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud in one of the country’s largest crackdowns on international cybercrime networks.
The joint operation, carried out by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), involved the repatriation of 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian on Wednesday. They were part of the 192 foreigners arrested in Lagos last year during a sting operation that targeted a major foreign-led cybercrime syndicate.
Investigators said the network was involved in romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and other online schemes using social media and messaging platforms. The Lagos raid uncovered a large operational hub on Victoria Island, which security officials described as a “major breakthrough” in the fight against cybercrime.
With the latest exercise, the number of convicted foreigners deported since August 15 has risen to 102. Authorities said more deportations will follow once court processes for the remaining suspects are concluded.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the crackdown underscores Nigeria’s determination to protect its digital space. “This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to restoring confidence in the nation’s economy,” he said.
Court documents showed that the deportees had been sentenced by the Federal High Court in Lagos under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, with penalties including prison terms, fines, and the forfeiture of over $220,000 in seized digital assets.
The government said it will continue to tighten immigration monitoring, strengthen cybercrime laws, and expand partnerships with international agencies to dismantle foreign criminal networks operating in the country.
