Court Fines 21 Foreign Hackers, Orders Immediate Deportation

Justice Ekerete Akpan of the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced 21 foreign nationals over cybercrime and money laundering.

The court fined each person ₦1 million and ordered them to leave Nigeria within six working days.

The sentence followed a plea bargain between the Nigeria Police Force and the defendants. Justice Akpan confirmed that the agreement was voluntary.

He insisted that each condition agreed upon must be fulfilled.

“After the defendants entered the plea bargain freely, I convict them as charged,” the judge said.

Court Orders Deportation and Asset Forfeiture

The court instructed that all fines must be paid before their release. It also directed the defendants to exit the country within six working days.

In addition, Justice Akpan ruled that all digital devices used for the crimes be forfeited to the Nigerian government.

These individuals are among 109 foreign nationals facing prosecution for cybercrimes and related offenses. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, brought the charges forward last year.

How the Crimes Were Committed

According to police reports, the group operated from a house in Katampe District, Abuja.

They allegedly ran an unregistered online gaming scheme and laundered proceeds through illegal platforms.

The accused came from countries including China, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Brazil, and Thailand. Lawyers Linda Ikpeazu and Julius Mba represented them during the trial.

Initial Arraignment and Bail Conditions

Initially, the court denied bail after they pleaded not guilty in 2024. They were detained at Kuje and Keffi Correctional Centres.

The court required ₦1 billion bail and five sureties each owning property worth ₦200 million.

Multiple Charges and Upcoming Trial

Authorities charged them with computer network intrusion and false data entry under the Cybercrimes Act.

They also violated Nigeria’s money laundering and immigration laws by overstaying their 30-day permits.

The trial of the remaining 88 defendants continues on October 22 and 23.

Ongoing Crackdown on Cybercrime

Benue, Lagos, and Abuja have seen a surge in cyber-related cases.

This case reflects Nigeria’s intensified efforts to combat cross-border digital fraud.

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