EFCC, Immigration Repatriate 51 More Foreign Nationals Convicted of Cybercrime, Internet Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have repatriated 51 additional foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud in Nigeria.

According to officials, the latest batch comprising 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian, was deported on Wednesday, bringing the total number of convicted foreigners repatriated to 102 since the exercise began on August 15, 2025.

This move follows the earlier deportation of 42 convicts, largely Chinese and Philippine nationals, as part of a coordinated operation to rid Nigeria of international cybercrime syndicates.

The convicts were among 192 foreign nationals arrested during a sting operation in Lagos, following intelligence reports that exposed one of the largest foreign-led cybercrime networks ever uncovered in the country.

In addition to the repatriations, the EFCC in July 2025 secured final forfeiture of digital assets worth $222,729, traced to some of the convicted individuals. Authorities say more assets linked to the network are currently being tracked.

EFCC repatriates foreign nationals convicted of cybercrime…. X/OfficialEFCC

Speaking on the development, EFCC officials confirmed that further deportations are scheduled in the coming days as court processing for the remaining convicts is concluded.

The Nigeria Immigration Service emphasized that the deportations are carried out under due process, following court convictions and sentencing. Flights are being scheduled in phases, with support from aviation and security agencies.

Authorities reiterated that the crackdown demonstrates Nigeria’s resolve to dismantle cybercrime networks and restore international confidence in its digital and financial systems.