The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has begun deporting dozens of foreign nationals convicted of cybercrime and Ponzi scheme offences.

On Sunday, August 17, the first batch of 42 convicts—all from China and the Philippines—were flown out of the country at 2:00 p.m. local time. More deportations are scheduled for Monday, August 18, and Tuesday, August 19, officials confirmed.

The deportees were among the 192 Chinese and Philippine nationals convicted earlier this year after being arrested in a massive raid on December 10, 2023, at Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. The raid initially led to the arrest of 759 suspects linked to a large-scale cyber fraud and Ponzi operation.

According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the convicted fraudsters were found guilty of several offences, including:

Using fake online identities to defraud victims

Running fraudulent investment schemes

Training employees of Genting International Co. Limited in cyber fraud practices

All charges were prosecuted under Nigeria’s Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.

The EFCC said the activities of the syndicate posed a serious threat to Nigeria’s security and financial integrity.

Commenting on the deportation, EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, described the convictions and subsequent deportations as a major milestone in Nigeria’s fight against financial crimes.

“This is a clear signal that Nigeria will not tolerate cybercrime and fraudulent schemes that damage lives and the economy,” he said.

With the first set already deported, Nigerian authorities are pressing forward to ensure that all 192 convicted foreigners are returned to their home countries.