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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in partnership with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), has successfully deported 192 foreign nationals who were convicted of cyber-terrorism, internet fraud, and related financial crimes in Lagos State.
This large-scale deportation, which commenced on August 15, 2025, concluded on October 16, 2025, with the repatriation of the final group, which included 50 Chinese nationals and one Tunisian.
This operation marked the end of a months-long initiative described by security officials as one of the most extensive crackdowns on cybercrime in the country.
According to EFCC officials, the deportees were among 759 suspects arrested during a coordinated sting operation on December 10, 2024, at Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives raided the premises of Genting International Co. Limited, a front allegedly used to facilitate large-scale online fraud and Ponzi investment schemes.
Investigations revealed that the syndicate operated a sophisticated network involved in identity theft, cyber-enabled Ponzi schemes, and international financial scams.
Many of the convicted individuals were reported to have trained local recruits and managed digital platforms that defrauded unsuspecting investors across multiple countries.
The Federal High Court in Lagos subsequently convicted these foreign nationals on charges including cybercrime, money laundering, and fraudulent investment operations.
Their deportation was carried out following court directives issued in accordance with Nigerian immigration and penal laws.
The first group of 42 convicts, primarily consisting of Chinese and Filipino nationals, was deported in mid-August, while subsequent groups were repatriated in phases throughout September and October.
In total, the EFCC confirmed that the 192 deported individuals hailed from China, the Philippines, Tunisia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Timor-Leste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What crimes were the deported individuals convicted of?
The deported individuals were convicted of cyber-terrorism, internet fraud, money laundering, and fraudulent investment operations.
How many individuals were deported in total?
A total of 192 foreign nationals were deported.
When did the deportation process start and end?
The deportation process began on August 15, 2025, and concluded on October 16, 2025.
