A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted 21 foreign nationals for high-level cybercrime activities, imposing a fine of one million Naira on each convict and ordering their immediate deportation from Nigeria within six working days.
Justice Ekerete Akpan, who presided over the case, delivered the judgment based on a plea bargain agreement reached between the convicts and the Nigeria Police Force. The judge emphasized that the defendants entered the plea bargain voluntarily.
"After the defendants entered the plea bargain agreement without being forced, I hereby convict you as charged. The sentence shall be based on the parties' agreement of N1 million fine each, against each of the defendants, which shall be paid before their release. They shall depart the country within six working days," Justice Akpan ruled.
The court also ordered that all electronic devices and gadgets used in committing the cybercrimes be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
BenriNews gathered that the 21 convicts are part of a larger group of 109 foreign nationals currently being prosecuted by the Inspector-General of Police on a six-count charge including cybercrime, money laundering, and activities considered threats to Nigeria's national security.
The convicted individuals hail from various countries including China, Indonesia, Brazil, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. They were initially arraigned in 2024 as part of Nigeria's intensified efforts to combat transnational cybercrime operations.
This case highlights Nigeria's growing determination to address cybersecurity threats, particularly those orchestrated by foreign nationals operating within its borders. The conviction sends a strong message about the country's stance on international cybercriminal activities.
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