A Federal High Court in Lagos has handed down convictions and sentences to 15 Chinese nationals found guilty of cyberterrorism and internet fraud. The convictions were secured by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) through its Lagos Zonal Directorate 1.
In a statement made public by the EFCC, it was revealed that the accused were prosecuted and convicted before Justices Ayokunle Faji and Dehinde Dipeolu, both sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
“The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has secured the conviction and sentencing of 15 Chinese nationals on charges relating to cyberterrorism and internet fraud before Justices Ayokunle Faji and Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, Lagos,” the EFCC confirmed.
The individuals convicted in this case include Ling Yang, Xiao Hong Will, Wang Zheng Ming, Wang Jia Qi, Yang Sheng, Peng Sen Lin, Guo Xiao Fei, Chen An Shun, Peng Sen Lin, Zhao Ying Bin, Yu Zi also known as Wei Xue Huan, Zhang Yang, Wang Zhi Cheng, Yang Sheng, and Lu Yubo.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were charged separately with various offences involving cyberterrorism and internet-based fraud.
This latest development follows closely on the heels of a similar case reported weeks ago by Chronicles Reporters, where 14 other Chinese nationals were convicted for comparable offences.
That particular trial was presided over by Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court, Lagos. Those convicted were Su Zong Gen, Li Zhong Chang, Chen Gui Ping, Li Xiang Long, San Feng Zhang, Jia Yang, Jia Zhi Hao, Liu Chuang, Yu Hai Ging, Zhao Xiao Liang, Dai Li, Tao Kun, Mao Bu Yi, and Zhao Zi Cheng.
The EFCC had accused the group of being part of a well-coordinated cybercrime ring. The syndicate was alleged to have been engaged in a range of illicit online activities, including digital fraud, identity theft, and cyberespionage, targeting victims both within Nigeria and abroad.
Following the presentation of substantial evidence by EFCC investigators, Justice Osiagor ruled all 14 individuals guilty. The sentences were issued in accordance with Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and other relevant laws governing digital offences.
While specific details regarding the duration of imprisonment and asset forfeiture are yet to be disclosed in the court’s official sentencing order, the convictions mark a notable milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against international cybercrime networks.
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