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The convicted foreign nationals about to be repatriated to their home countries
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in collaboration with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), has repatriated 51 foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud.
The latest exercise carried out on Thursday, involved the deportation of 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian, bringing the total number of convicted foreign nationals repatriated so far to 102.
According to the EFCC, the exercise is part of an ongoing operation that began on Friday, August 15, 2025, targeting one of the largest foreign-led cybercrime syndicates uncovered in Nigeria.
The syndicate was exposed following actionable intelligence that led to a major sting operation in Lagos, during which 192 foreign suspects were arrested.
“Of those arrested, several have already been prosecuted, convicted, and sentenced by Nigerian courts for their roles in cyber-terrorism and internet fraud schemes”, it stated.
The EFCC explained that the repatriation of the convicts is being carried out in batches in partnership with the NIS, with further deportations expected in the coming days.
Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, who confirmed the development, said the Commission remains committed to dismantling transnational crime networks exploiting Nigeria as a hub for internet fraud.
The Commission noted that the joint action with the Immigration Service underscores Nigeria’s resolve to rid the country of foreign cybercrime syndicates while ensuring that convicted offenders face the consequences of their actions. (BusinessDay)
