Nigerian government has deported 51 foreign nationals convicted of cybercrime, concluding the repatriation of 192 offenders to their home countries
The final phase of the deportation, which took place on October 16, 2025, involved 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian, according to a statement from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Also read: Foreign nationals convicted of cybercrime in Abuja Court, fined, ordered to leave Nigeria
The exercise, conducted in partnership with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), followed a series of convictions by the Federal High Court in Lagos for offences including cybercrime, money laundering, and ponzi scheme operations.
Authorities confirmed that the latest deportation concluded a months-long operation that began on August 15,
2025, with the first batch of 42 convicts—comprising Chinese and Filipino nationals—removed from the country. Additional groups were repatriated through August and September.
According to the EFCC, the foreign nationals were part of a sophisticated cybercrime network uncovered during a sting operation on December 10, 2024, at Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Acting on credible intelligence, investigators dismantled the syndicate operating under the name Genting International Co. Limited, believed to have trained recruits and managed fake digital platforms that defrauded victims both within Nigeria and abroad.
The Nigerian government said the mass deportation represents a decisive move against transnational financial crimes, highlighting its resolve to maintain strong cybersecurity enforcement.
A senior EFCC official described the deportation as “a vital step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy and strengthening cooperation with international partners on cybercrime control.”
All the deported convicts were handed over to their respective embassies before their departure, following standard immigration and court-approved procedures.
The Nigerian Immigration Service confirmed that the deportations complied fully with judicial directives and international repatriation protocols.
Also read: EFCC arrests 792 in massive cybercrime raid on foreign fraud ring
This coordinated crackdown reinforces the government’s message that Nigeria will not serve as a haven for cybercriminal networks, regardless of nationality.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
