In a significant move against cybercrime, Nigeria has deported numerous foreign nationals, including 50 Chinese individuals, as part of a crackdown on what authorities label one of the "largest foreign-led cybercrime syndicates." Over the past week, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed a total of 102 convicted foreign nationals have been repatriated, found guilty of serious crimes like "cyberterrorism and internet fraud." This comes as part of a larger effort that netted a total of 192 foreign arrests in a sting operation conducted in Lagos.

Nigeria has gained a notorious reputation for internet fraud, with romance scams being particularly prevalent. Last year, the EFCC reported cybercrime cases were among the most frequently committed offenses in the region. The commission has been proactive in shutting down criminal hideouts where local cybercriminals, often referred to as "Yahoo Boys," acquire their skills.

On Thursday, the EFCC shared images via social media showing the deported individuals lined up at an airport, with their luggage and wearing masks, signaling the end of a complicated process. The operation, named "Eagle Flush," was launched following the reception of "actionable intelligence." Of those arrested, a substantial number—148—were Chinese nationals.

This is not the first instance of crackdown on foreign involvement in cybercrime; in December, nearly 800 suspects—including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals—were apprehended in connection with networked scams targeting unsuspecting victims through romance and cryptocurrency schemes.

The EFCC attributes rising cybercriminal activities to factors like escalating unemployment, a yearning for quick wealth among youth, a vast informal economy, and inadequate regulatory frameworks in Nigeria. As cyber fraud continues to evolve, major platforms like Meta have taken action, removing thousands of accounts involved in online sextortion schemes, warning users to remain vigilant and alert.

Experts stress the importance of awareness around these dangers as they continue to gain significant traction within Nigeria and beyond.