The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday, February 3, arraigned 57 foreign nationals, mostly Chinese and Filipinos, before the Federal High Court in Lagos.
They are facing charges related to impersonation, fraud, cybercrimes, and attempts to disrupt Nigeria’s constitutional system.
The suspects were brought before four judges: Justices Ayokunle Faji, Chukwujekwu Aneke, Denide Dipeolu, and Alexander Owoeye.
Earlier the same day, the EFCC secured an interim forfeiture order for digital assets worth $222,729.86, allegedly linked to fraudulent activities by the defendants.
The accused, including Cherry De Leon (alias Yesh De Leon), Khurram Shanzad, Fernad Fu Fang (alias Kim), and others, were arrested on December 10, 2024, at a location on Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Their arrest followed intelligence gathered by the EFCC.
They were charged with offenses such as cyber-terrorism, identity theft, and possession of false documents. The EFCC alleged that the defendants hired Nigerian youths for identity theft schemes to commit fraud and gain financial benefits.
After the charges were read, all defendants pleaded not guilty. The court ordered that the female suspects be remanded in Kirikiri prison, while the males were sent to Ikoyi prison.
The case will proceed as the EFCC continues its investigation into the alleged cyber-related crimes.
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