A Nigerian court has ordered the seizure of 73 properties in Lagos linked to Chinese nationals suspected of internet fraud, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced on Friday.
The seized assets include 1,596 laptops recovered from individuals allegedly involved in cyber-terrorism and internet fraud.
These individuals are reportedly part of a syndicate of 792 suspects arrested in December 2024 for cryptocurrency investment and romance scams.
The December operation in Lagos led to the arrest of 792 people, including 148 Chinese nationals among 192 foreigners.
Other impounded items include thousands of mobile phones and hundreds of bunk beds.
The EFCC sought the forfeiture order on the grounds that the properties were likely used for computer-related fraud and money laundering.
While Nigeria has a reputation for local internet fraudsters, experts warn that foreign cybercrime syndicates are exploiting the country’s cybersecurity weaknesses.
The EFCC states that foreign gangs recruit Nigerians to find victims online, often targeting individuals in Western countries.
This development coincides with an FBI announcement of a global operation targeting Nigerian-based sextortion schemes, resulting in 22 arrests.
