Eighty-five Chinese nationals who were being held at the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja on charges of cybercrime have been granted bail, as reported by Sunday PUNCH.
The Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Capital Territory Command, spokesperson, Adamu Duza, confirmed the release of the Chinese nationals on Friday, December 20, 2024. These individuals were among a group of 113 foreign nationals who were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja on November 24, 2024, facing accusations of cybercrime, money laundering, and illegal residency in Nigeria.
The group consisted of individuals from various countries including Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, the Philippines, Myanmar, and Malaysia. Additionally, there were 17 Nigerian collaborators involved in the case.
The presiding judge, Justice Ekerete Akpan, initially ordered the male defendants to be remanded at Kuje prison while the female defendants were to be held at Suleja prison. The charges filed against them revolved around the use of sophisticated computer systems for hacking activities and operating fraudulent gambling platforms like 9f.com, c2.top, and 8pg.top. They were also accused of overstaying their business permits and residing in Nigeria without valid visas or permits.
The arrests of these suspects took place on November 3, 2024, in the Katampe District of Abuja, leading to their subsequent arraignment and detention.
Duza further explained that the process of releasing the 85 Chinese nationals was closely monitored by the FCT Controller of Corrections, Ajibogun Olatubosun, ensuring that all necessary protocols were followed, and their personal belongings were returned to them.
In his statement to Sunday PUNCH, Duza stated, “85 Chinese in our detention facilities have been released on bail. The Controller was on the ground to oversee their release and ensure the return of their properties.”
The release of these individuals signifies a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the cybercrime case. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how the remaining individuals, both foreign nationals and Nigerian collaborators, will be handled by the Nigerian authorities.
The issue of cybercrime has been a growing concern globally, with many countries cracking down on illicit activities conducted through digital platforms. The case in Abuja serves as a reminder of the importance of enforcing strict regulations to combat cyber-related offenses and protect national security.
As the legal process unfolds, the outcome of the trial will shed light on the extent of the alleged criminal activities and the measures taken by the Nigerian justice system to address such offenses firmly.
Overall, the release of the 85 Chinese nationals on bail marks a significant development in this complex and multi-faceted case, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure justice is served and perpetrators of cybercrime are held accountable for their actions.