Court Convicts 21 Foreign Hackers in Nigeria, Orders Deportation and Fines

A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced 21 foreign nationals to pay fines and leave Nigeria after they were found guilty of engaging in sophisticated cybercrime activities.

Justice Ekerete Akpan, who presided over the case, delivered the ruling on Monday following a plea bargain reached between the convicts and the Nigeria Police Force. Each individual was fined ₦1 million and ordered to exit the country within six working days.

“The conviction is based on the plea agreement voluntarily entered by the defendants,” Justice Akpan stated. He further ordered the confiscation of all devices used in committing the crimes, directing they be forfeited to the Nigerian government.

The convicted individuals, from nations including China, Brazil, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand, are part of a larger group of 109 foreign suspects being prosecuted by the Inspector-General of Police. They face allegations related to cybercrime, money laundering, and threats to Nigeria’s national security.

The suspects were originally arraigned in 2024 on a six-count charge before opting for a plea bargain.

According to Metoric Post, authorities have confirmed that compliance with the court’s directive, including the payment of fines and deportation, will be closely monitored.