In a major crackdown on transnational cybercrime, the Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted 21 foreign nationals for their involvement in a sprawling online fraud scheme, imposing a ₦1 million fine on each and ordering their deportation within six working days.
Presiding over the case, Justice Ekerete Akpan delivered the verdict on Tuesday after formally adopting a plea bargain agreement entered into by the convicts and the Nigeria Police Force.
The judge confirmed the agreement was reached voluntarily and formed the legal basis for the court’s sentencing.
“Having voluntarily entered into a plea bargain, I hereby convict you as charged. Each of you shall pay a fine of ₦1 million and shall be deported from Nigeria within six working days,” Justice Akpan ruled.
In addition to the fines and deportation orders, the court ordered the forfeiture of all electronic devices used in the commission of the crimes to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The convicted individuals are part of a wider group of 109 foreign nationals currently facing prosecution over a sophisticated cybercrime and money laundering network, allegedly operating out of a luxury property at Plot 1906, Cadastral Zone 807, Katampe District, Abuja.
According to court filings, the defendants were involved in various offences including conspiracy, unlawful access to computer systems, data manipulation, and laundering proceeds from illegal online gaming platforms such as 9f.com, c2.top, and 8pg.top. They also reportedly violated Nigerian immigration laws by overstaying their 30-day business visas.
Among those convicted are:
Yang Yang (33)
Li Xiao Fen (41)
Zheng Peng Zhan (28)
Shu Huan (20)
Zhao Yifan (31)
These individuals were represented by counsel Linda Ikpeazu. Other convicts, represented by Julius Mba, include Tue Xue Fie (21), Zhu Jiu Hui (28), and Wang Hao (27).
Initially arraigned under Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CR/599/2024, the group had pleaded not guilty. Due to the gravity of the charges, most were remanded in Kuje and Keffi Correctional Centres after failing to meet stringent bail conditions, which included a ₦1 billion bond and five sureties with a minimum of ₦200 million in property assets each.
During Tuesday’s session, defence counsel Ikpeazu informed the court that the convicts were ready to comply with the sentencing terms immediately.
“My Lord, we are going to pay in the next five minutes,” she assured.
The prosecution was led by A.A. Egwu, representing the Inspector-General of Police.
The case has been adjourned to October 22 and 23, 2025, for the continuation of trial involving the remaining 88 defendants still facing charges.
