The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday arraigned 16 Chinese nationals at the Federal High Court in Lagos over alleged cybercrime and an attempt to destabilise Nigeria’s social and economic structure.
The suspects, brought before Justice Daniel Osiagor, face multiple charges, including cyberterrorism, internet fraud, possession of fraudulent documents, and identity theft.
The defendants include Hu Hui (A.K.A A Bin), Liao Ri Xing (A.K.A Li Jun), Li Qiang (A.K.A Yang Huan Huan), A Wen, Da Tou, Cheng Jian, Cong Bing, Fei Fan, Huxi Heng, Zheng Wei (A.K.A A Hong), Huang Zhi, Zhang Lei, Sun Zhi Peng, Huang Jin Hui, Wù Hao, and Lu Qiang.
They were among the 792-member cryptocurrency investment and romance fraud syndicate arrested during “Eagle Flush Operation” conducted by EFCC operatives on December 10, 2024, in Lagos.
Allegations Against the Suspects
According to the EFCC prosecution counsel, Nnaemeka Omewa, the suspects allegedly:
- Accessed computer systems to destabilise and destroy Nigeria’s economy and social structure.
- Engaged in fraudulent online activities, with some posing as female models to scam victims.
- Were found in possession of fraudulent documents used for cybercrime.
The offences contravene Sections 18(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act 2015 and Sections 6, 8(b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, No.14 of 2006.
Court Proceedings and Ruling
All 16 defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. In response, the EFCC requested a trial date and sought an order to remand the defendants in custody.
Justice Daniel Osiagor granted the request, ordering the remand of the suspects in a correctional facility. The case was then adjourned to June 23, 2025, for trial.
