The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has achieved a major breakthrough in its battle against cybercrime with the conviction of 21 foreign nationals involved in a sophisticated internet fraud ring dismantled in Abuja in late 2024.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the convictions follow an extensive investigation into a large-scale operation discovered during a coordinated raid in the Jahi area of Abuja on November 3, 2024.
“This conviction sends a strong message to local and international cybercriminals that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for criminal enterprises,” said the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
The initial operation, based on credible intelligence, led to the arrest of 130 suspects—including 113 foreign nationals (mainly of Chinese and Malaysian origin) and 17 Nigerian collaborators. They were implicated in offences such as:
Large-scale internet fraud.
Unauthorized access and hacking.
Use of technology to compromise financial systems.
Cyber threats to national security and economic interests
Following their arraignment in court on December 2, 2024, and presentation of digital forensic evidence, 21 individuals were found guilty and sentenced as of August 1, 2025. Prosecution of the remaining suspects is ongoing in coordination with the Ministry of Justice.
The Force emphasized its continued commitment to: Deploying advanced digital forensics and surveillance tools.
Strengthening international collaboration against transnational cybercrime.
Providing timely public updates as prosecutions advance.
The conviction of 21 cybercriminals—many of them foreign nationals—is a major win for law enforcement and an encouraging sign that Nigeria is taking cyber threats seriously. But this raises critical long-term concerns that go beyond a single operation.
Why was such a large, sophisticated operation allowed to flourish in a residential area like Jahi, Abuja, without early detection?
What border control failures allowed foreign cyber operatives to coordinate so easily on Nigerian soil?
How protected are critical infrastructure systems from deeper cyber sabotage—especially in financial institutions and government agencies?
While the Police Force deserves credit for the arrests and convictions, this case highlights the need for:
Tighter immigration surveillance
A centralized digital threat monitoring agency working 24/7
More investment in cybersecurity education and public-private collaboration
As cybercrime becomes more decentralized, Nigeria must not just play defense. The country must go proactive—building resilient systems, empowering digital intelligence units, and setting a continental standard for cybercrime prosecution.
We also urge the Police to publicize the identities of the convicted, as deterrence only works when there is visibility and accountability.
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🖊️ Compiled by the Stone Reporters News Editorial Desk
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