A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced two Chinese men to a combined 46 years’ imprisonment after finding them guilty of cybercrime offences involving internet fraud and related criminal activity.
The convicts Lin Shuai and Zhang Wei were arraigned on multiple counts including internet-related fraud, possession of fraudulent documents, and use of stolen identities to defraud unsuspecting victims. Prosecutors presented evidence showing that the duo used online platforms to lure victims, manipulate digital transactions, and harvest personal information for financial gain.
After evaluating witness testimony, digital forensics, and financial records, the court found both men guilty on all counts and ruled that their activities amounted to serious economic and cyber offences under Nigerian law.
Delivering the judgment, the presiding judge noted that the cybercrimes committed had caused significant financial loss to victims both within and outside Nigeria and underscored the need to clamp down on foreign nationals who exploit digital platforms to perpetrate fraud.
Lin Shuai was sentenced to 25 years in prison, while Zhang Wei received 21 years, reflecting the severity of their offences and the role each played in the criminal enterprise. The court also ordered the forfeiture of electronic devices, bank records, and assets linked to the fraudulent operations.
The convictions come amid intensified efforts by Nigerian authorities to combat cybercrime, particularly as the country continues to grapple with high-profile cases involving international offenders. Law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have welcomed the verdict, saying it sends a “strong message” that cyber perpetrators will face severe consequences under Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.
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