A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the remand of 13 Chinese nationals and a company, Genting International Co. Limited, following their arraignment on charges of alleged impersonation, fraud, and attempts to destabilize Nigeria’s constitutional structure. Justice Denide Dipeolu issued the remand order on Friday after the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The defendants, arrested on 10 December 2024 at their hideout on No. 7 Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, were arraigned before the court. They include Wang Zheng Ming, Li Yin Hui, Xiao Hong Will, Wang Jia Qi (a.k.a. Xiao Tian), Long Shao Ming (a.k.a. You), Zhang Xiao Lei, Liu San Hua, Chen Wenyuan (a.k.a. Lee05mx20), Yang Sheng (Madison), Rheeigh De La Vega (a.k.a. Rheignalyn), and Guo Xiao Fei.
Details of the Charges
The EFCC’s legal team, led by Director of Legal Aso Peters, filed charges against the defendants under Sections 18 and 27 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended in 2024). The charges include allegations of using fake identities online to defraud victims, training employees of Genting International Co. Limited in fraudulent practices, and other offences under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.
After the charges were read to the defendants individually, they all pleaded not guilty, except for Wang Zheng Ming, who rejected the EFCC-appointed lawyer and requested time to hire his own legal representation. Following their pleas, Justice Dipeolu scheduled trial dates for 3, 14, and 21 February 2025. He ordered the defendants to be held at correctional facilities pending trial. The two female defendants were remanded at Kirikiri Female Correctional Centre, while the others were taken to Ikoyi Correctional Centre.
Specific Allegations Against the Defendants
The charges highlight serious offences aimed at undermining Nigeria’s security and financial integrity through cybercrime and fraudulent activities. Key allegations include:
- Liu San Hua and Genting International Co. Limited: Accused of facilitating identity theft by hiring Nigerian youths to impersonate foreign nationals to gain financial advantage. This act violates Section 18 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015.
- Zhang Xiao Lei and Genting International Co. Limited: Allegedly used computer systems to commit cybercrimes aimed at destabilising Nigeria’s constitutional structure.
- Wang Zheng Feng (a.k.a. A. Feng): Accused of accessing computer systems to harm Nigeria’s economy and social structure. He allegedly employed Nigerian youths for identity theft, presenting them as foreign nationals to gain financial advantage—an offence that violates both the Cybercrimes Act and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
- Luo Jia You (a.k.a. You): Charged with providing false information to EFCC investigators, misleading them about his identity to conceal his involvement in a syndicate specialising in romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and cyber terrorism.
- Guo Xiao Fei: Allegedly impersonated a French national named Alani to defraud one Mr. Montalito. He was also accused of possessing documents used for false pretences, including romance scam formats and chat records where he falsely presented himself as a United States citizen.
EFCC’s Statement on the Case
The EFCC stated that the defendants’ activities posed serious threats to Nigeria’s security and financial integrity. According to the Commission, the charges underscore the need for robust measures to combat cybercrime and protect the nation’s constitutional framework.
“The defendants’ actions were not only fraudulent but also aimed at destabilising Nigeria’s economy and social structure. Their activities involved sophisticated cybercrime operations, including identity theft, romance scams, and cryptocurrency fraud,” the EFCC said in a statement.
Broader Implications of the Case
The case has drawn significant attention due to its implications for Nigeria’s cybersecurity and economic stability. Cybercrime has become a growing concern in the country, with criminals using advanced technology to defraud individuals and organisations. The EFCC’s crackdown on this syndicate is part of a broader effort to curb cybercrime and protect Nigerians from financial exploitation.
According to cybersecurity expert Dr. Adeolu Ogunbanjo, “This case highlights the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and international collaboration to tackle cybercrime. The involvement of foreign nationals in such activities underscores the global nature of the problem.”
Reactions from Stakeholders
The case has sparked reactions from various stakeholders, including civil society organisations and cybersecurity experts. Many have commended the EFCC for its efforts in apprehending the suspects and bringing them to justice.
A representative of a Lagos-based anti-corruption group stated, “The EFCC’s actions demonstrate its commitment to protecting Nigerians from cybercrime and financial fraud. This case should serve as a warning to other criminal elements that Nigeria will not tolerate such activities.”
Looking Ahead
The trial, scheduled to begin on 3 February 2025, is expected to shed more light on the defendants’ alleged crimes and their impact on Nigeria’s economy and security. The EFCC has pledged to present a strong case against the defendants, ensuring that justice is served.
In the meantime, the remand of the defendants underscores the seriousness of the charges and the need for accountability. As the case unfolds, it is hoped that it will serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar criminal activities.
Conclusion
The remand of 13 Chinese nationals and Genting International Co. Limited marks a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against cybercrime and financial fraud. The charges, which include impersonation, fraud, and attempts to destabilise the country’s constitutional structure, highlight the gravity of the defendants’ alleged actions.
As the trial approaches, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and the need for continued vigilance in protecting Nigeria’s economic and social fabric. The EFCC’s efforts in this case demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s stability are held accountable.
