Nigeria has thrown out 50 Chinese nationals and a Tunisian convicted of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud, in one of the country’s largest mass deportations targeting foreign-led crime rings.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed the move on Thursday, saying the deportations were part of an aggressive clampdown on international cyber syndicates exploiting Nigeria as a base of operations.
According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the expulsions bring the total number of foreign nationals deported since the operation began on August 15 to 102.
Nearly 200 foreigners were arrested in Lagos during raids on what investigators believe to be one of the country’s biggest cybercrime networks. The group allegedly ran romance scams, identity theft rings, and fake cryptocurrency investments that fleeced victims around the world.
The EFCC said last year’s raid on a Lagos building, where almost 800 suspected fraudsters were rounded up, exposed the scale of the problem and intensified pressure on the government to act.
“This operation shows Nigeria’s resolve to dismantle cybercrime networks and protect its digital reputation,” Oyewale said.
Officials added that more arrests and deportations are expected in the coming weeks as the crackdown continues.
Looking Ahead
The Nigerian government has pledged to strengthen its cybercrime laws and invest more in digital forensics and law enforcement training. Officials say the recent deportation highlights a broader national strategy to restore Nigeria’s reputation, attract foreign investment, and foster trust in its emerging digital economy.
As the EFCC put it: “The message is simple – Nigeria is open for business, not for cybercrime.”
About the Author: Onyedikachi Ugwu is a seasoned cybersecurity professional and passionate writer dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge to navigate the digital world safely. By day, he serves as a Sr SOC Analyst at Bell Integration, leveraging his expertise to combat evolving cyber threats. Outside of work, he shares practical insights on a wide range of cybersecurity topics through his blog and speaking engagements at events such as BSides London.
As a Social Engineering SME with The Cyber Helpline, Onyedikachi is well-versed in the tactics scammers use to manipulate victims. His mission is to equip readers with the skills to recognise and avoid deceptive schemes, fostering both safety and trust in the online space.
