China Endorses Conviction of Its Citizens for Cybercrime in Nigeria

…Pledges Deeper Cooperation with Nigeria to Combat Online Fraud

The Chinese government has expressed its support for the recent conviction of several Chinese nationals in Nigeria over their involvement in telecommunications and online fraud.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Chinese Embassy in Abuja, China reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Nigeria to strengthen the fight against cybercrime.

According to the Embassy, China firmly opposes any form of criminal activity by its citizens abroad and upholds a zero-tolerance stance on fraud and other transnational crimes. While it continues to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese nationals overseas, it made clear that criminal behavior will not be condoned.

“The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has taken note of the recent convictions of Chinese citizens by Nigerian courts in connection with telecommunications and online fraud,” the statement read.

“China recognizes the efforts of Nigerian law enforcement in cracking down on these offenses, which pose a shared international threat.”

It further noted that Nigeria’s security agencies have, over the past year, intensified efforts to curb telecommunications fraud, leading to the arrest of numerous suspects, including Chinese nationals.

China acknowledged these efforts and described online fraud as a global issue requiring unified action by the international community.

“The Chinese government consistently maintains a firm position against all forms of telecommunication and internet fraud, especially those crossing national borders,” the statement said.

“To that effect, we have implemented stricter regulations for Chinese citizens overseas and enacted legislation such as the Anti-Telecommunications and Online Fraud Law, passed in 2022, to address this menace.”

The Embassy emphasized that Chinese nationals are expected to obey the laws of their host countries and refrain from illegal activities.

At the same time, it called on host governments to protect the lawful rights of Chinese citizens in accordance with local laws.

Reaffirming its commitment to stronger bilateral ties, the statement highlighted China’s readiness to deepen law enforcement collaboration with Nigeria, including the execution of joint operations targeting online scams, illegal gambling, and other transnational offenses.

“Guided by the mutual understanding between Chinese and Nigerian leaders, we are ready to expand cooperation with Nigeria in ensuring a safer digital environment,” the statement concluded.

“This partnership will not only help safeguard the rights of Chinese citizens in Nigeria but also further enhance the China-Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”