Nigeria Deports 50 Chinese Nationals in Major Cybercrime Crackdown

Nigeria’s anti-cybercrime operation has led to the arrest of at least 192 foreign nationals, including 148 Chinese citizens.

Scam center workers and victims from China arrive at the border checkpoint with Thailand, in Myawaddy, Burma, on Feb. 20, 2025. Hundreds of Chinese workers were heading home after being freed from online scam centers. STR/AFP via Getty Images

Nigeria has deported 51 foreign nationals—including 50 Chinese citizens and one Tunisian—after they were convicted of cyberterrorism and internet fraud, authorities announced Aug. 21.

The scams primarily targeted victims in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, using advanced techniques to defraud individuals and businesses of substantial sums.