Chinese Scammers Deported Following Major Nigerian Cybercrime Sting

Nigeria has intensified its crackdown on internet fraud, with a recent operation leading to the deportation of dozens of foreign nationals involved in cybercrime.

In a significant law enforcement action, Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has deported over 100 foreign nationals, including 50 from China, in a major sting operation aimed at dismantling a prominent cybercrime syndicate believed to be operating in the country. The operation, aptly named "Eagle Flush," resulted in the arrest of 192 suspects in Lagos, with 148 of them being Chinese nationals.

The EFCC noted that this operation followed actionable intelligence related to one of the largest foreign-led cybercrime networks in Nigeria, notorious for various forms of online fraud, including internet scams and cyberterrorism. The deported individuals were found guilty and are part of a broader trend of increasing cybercrime in Nigeria, which is often exacerbated by high unemployment rates and a desire for quick wealth among the youth.

The EFCC reported that cybercrime has become one of the most prevalent forms of crime in Nigeria, with scams such as romance fraud and cryptocurrency investment schemes dominating the landscape. In a bid to mitigate the issue, the Commission has previously raided several locations used as training grounds for young cybercriminals known as "Yahoo Boys." The agency also highlighted a rise in collaborative efforts between Nigerian scammers and foreign accomplices, evidenced by a previous operation in December that saw nearly 800 arrests, including individuals from China and the Philippines.

Those deported were photographed in long lines at the airport, wearing facemasks and waiting to leave Nigeria. The EFCC confirmed that further deportations are planned as part of their ongoing efforts. Cybercrime experts have repeatedly warned the public about the rise in online scams, especially on social media platforms. In response, tech companies like Meta have taken down thousands of accounts linked to sextortion schemes in Nigeria, highlighting the scale of the problem.

As Nigeria grapples with the implications of cybercrime, the EFCC’s recent operations underline a concerted effort to expel foreign criminals and restore integrity in the growing digital landscape.