The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken 11 Chinese nationals and a company, Genting International Co. Ltd., to court for alleged cyber-terrorism and internet fraud. They appeared before Justice C.J. Aneke at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on February 4, 2025.
These individuals were part of a larger group of 792 suspects arrested during the EFCC’s “Eagle Flush Operation” on December 10, 2024. The EFCC accuses them of being involved in cryptocurrency investment scams and romance fraud.
The suspects face multiple charges, including:
- Cyber-terrorism: Allegedly using computers to harm Nigeria’s economy and society.
- Fraud and Identity Theft: Impersonating people online to deceive victims.
- False Information: One of the accused reportedly gave false details to EFCC officials during the investigation.
All 11 defendants pleaded not guilty. The prosecution requested trial dates and asked the court to keep the suspects in custody. Justice Aneke set trial dates for February 21 and March 7, 2025, and ordered the suspects to be held at Ikoyi correctional center until then.
This case highlights the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to fight cybercrime in Nigeria. The outcome of the trial will determine the fate of the accused.
