Trial Set to Begin in February and March 2025
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned multiple Chinese and Filipino nationals before the Federal High Court in Lagos over allegations of cybercrime, cyberterrorism, identity theft, and possession of fraudulent documents.
The accused individuals appeared before four different justices: Justice Olayinka Faji, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, Justice Deinde Dipeolu, and Justice Alexander Owoeye. According to reports, Justice Faji presided over the arraignment of 10 defendants, while Justice Aneke handled six cases. Justice Dipeolu oversaw proceedings for 16 defendants—predominantly Chinese nationals—while Justice Owoeye arraigned 13 Filipino nationals.
Upon their arraignment, all defendants pleaded not guilty. The judges ordered their remand in correctional facilities pending the determination of their bail applications.
Cybercrime Allegations
The EFCC accused the defendants of operating a sophisticated cybercrime syndicate that recruited Nigerian youths for identity theft and other fraudulent activities. Prosecutors claimed the group was involved in schemes designed to disrupt Nigeria’s economic stability.
The agency further alleged that the defendants provided false information to investigators and participated in cyber-related financial crimes, including romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and cyberterrorism.
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Some of the arrested suspects in court today |
Background and Arrest
The accused were apprehended on December 10, 2024, at a residence located on No. 7, Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Their arrest followed intelligence reports that linked them to a criminal syndicate engaged in large-scale digital fraud.
The EFCC charged them under Sections 18 and 27 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended in 2024) and Section 39(2) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004.
The trials have been scheduled for various dates in February and March 2025, with the earliest proceedings set to begin on February 7.