A group of Chinese and Filipino nationals has been brought before the Federal High Court in Lagos on charges related to cyber fraud, identity theft, and cyber-terrorism.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) initiated the legal proceedings following their arrest in December 2024.
The accused were arraigned before four different judges—Justices Olayinka Faji, Chukwujekwu Aneke, Deinde Dipeolu, and Alexander Owoeye—on varying counts of financial and cyber-related offenses.
While some faced charges of identity fraud and possessing fraudulent documents, others were accused of using Nigerian identities for financial gain.
During the proceedings, all defendants entered a not-guilty plea.
The court ordered their detention in correctional facilities pending the outcome of their bail hearings.
A 10-member legal team is expected to oversee the prosecution, with trial dates set for February and March 2025.
According to EFCC investigations, the defendants allegedly orchestrated cyber-related schemes that targeted financial networks, using Nigerian recruits for identity fraud and illicit financial transactions.
They were apprehended in a sting operation on Victoria Island, Lagos, following intelligence reports on their activities.
The charges stem from violations of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and the EFCC Establishment Act.
Authorities have indicated that further investigations into the syndicate’s operations are ongoing.
