The Nigeria Police Force has achieved another milestone in its crackdown on cybercrime with the conviction of 59 foreign nationals linked to a massive internet fraud syndicate uncovered in Abuja.
Police spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, announced the development in a statement issued on October 16, 2025, from the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
According to the statement, the convictions were secured through the National Cybercrime Centre, bringing the total number of convicted suspects in the case to 85.
The cyber syndicate was initially exposed in November 2024 after police operatives launched a coordinated raid on a building in the Jahi area of Abuja, following credible intelligence.
During the operation, 130 suspects were arrested — comprising 113 foreign nationals from China and Malaysia and 17 Nigerians.
Investigations revealed that the syndicate specialized in large-scale internet fraud, advanced hacking schemes, and other cyber offences that posed significant threats to Nigeria’s national security.
Earlier, 21 members were convicted in August 2025, and five others in September. With the latest convictions, police confirmed that prosecution of the remaining suspects is still in progress.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, praised the relentless efforts of the cybercrime unit, emphasizing that the convictions send a powerful warning to both local and international cybercriminals.
“These convictions clearly demonstrate that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for cybercriminal enterprises, regardless of nationality,” Egbetokun stated.
He further assured the public that the Police Force remains committed to deploying advanced technology, strengthening international collaboration, and conducting thorough investigations to dismantle organised cyber networks and ensure justice is served.
