Court sentences two Chinese to 46 years for cybercrime

Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday sentenced two Chinese nationals, Huang Haoyu and An Hongxu, to 46 years’ imprisonment each for cyberterrorism and internet fraud.

The duo, along with one Friday Audu, were part of a syndicate of 792 fraudsters arrested in Lagos on December 19, 2024, during a surprise operation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) codenamed “Eagle Flush Operation.”

Investigations revealed that the syndicate defrauded victims through cryptocurrency, investment, and romance scams.

Friday Audu reportedly incorporated Genting International Co. Ltd. under Huang Haoyu’s instruction to facilitate the fraudulent schemes.

The defendants were also found to have recruited Nigerian youths to impersonate foreign nationals online to deceive unsuspecting victims.

The convicts faced a seven-count charge, including cyberterrorism, internet fraud, and money laundering, involving N3.4 billion and $2.56 million.

Initially pleading not guilty, Huang and Hongxu changed their pleas to guilty during Wednesday’s court sitting, while Audu maintained his not guilty plea.

Following the guilty pleas, the prosecution requested the maximum sentence. Justice Osiagor subsequently convicted Huang and Hongxu, sentencing them to a cumulative 46 years in prison each, with an option of a N56 million fine.

The court also ordered three days of community service and their repatriation to China after serving their sentences.

In addition, the court approved the forfeiture of all items recovered during EFCC’s investigation, including 1,596 mobile phones, 43 computer systems, hundreds of SIM cards, office equipment, generators, vehicles, and other electronics, to the Federal Government.

These items were seized from four properties in Victoria Island and Ikoyi.

The trial for Audu Friday continues, with the next hearing scheduled for April 29, 2026.