Nigeria recently deported 60 Chinese and 39 Filipino nationals following their convictions for participating in large-scale cryptocurrency romance scams. This decisive move is part of an intensified crackdown on foreign-led cybercrime networks operating within the country, led by Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

The operation stems from a major raid conducted in Lagos in December 2024, targeting high-rise buildings believed to serve as hubs for internet fraud and fraudulent investment schemes. Authorities revealed that these syndicates had orchestrated romance scams, luring unsuspecting victims—both locally and abroad—into fake cryptocurrency investments through carefully crafted online relationships. Hundreds of victims suffered financial losses as a result of these meticulously planned scams.

After a lengthy investigation and court proceedings, the convicted foreign nationals were ordered to serve their sentences before being repatriated to their home countries. Officials emphasized that these actions not only bring justice to the scam victims but also serve as a stern warning to international crime syndicates exploiting Nigeria as a base for digital criminal enterprises.

The crackdown has resulted in the arrest and conviction of nearly 200 foreign nationals from multiple countries for internet fraud, with many more expected to be deported as Nigeria continues to strengthen its measures against cybercrime. Authorities noted that the operation involved close cooperation with international law enforcement agencies and the forfeiture of digital assets obtained through illegal activities.

Nigeria’s determined response exemplifies its commitment to safeguarding both its digital ecosystem and financial integrity. The government’s ongoing efforts highlight the importance of international collaboration in combating the growing threat of cyber-enabled fraud and protecting citizens from sophisticated global crime networks.