EFCC Arraigns Two Chinese Nationals, Nigerian Over N3.4bn Cyber Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned two Chinese nationals, Huang Haoyu and An Hongxu, alongside a Nigerian, Audu Friday, over alleged involvement in cyber-terrorism, computer-related fraud, and money laundering amounting to N3.4 billion and $2.5 million.
The trio was brought before Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, facing an 11-count charge.
EFCC’s ‘Eagle Flush Operation’ Leads to Arrest
According to the EFCC, the defendants were part of a syndicate of 792 individuals arrested during the “Eagle Flush Operation” in Lagos on December 19. The agency accused them of orchestrating cryptocurrency investment scams and romance fraud schemes.
Investigations revealed that Audu Friday registered Genting International Co. Limited under the instruction of Huang Haoyu, allegedly using it to facilitate fraudulent activities.
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One of the charges states that the accused conspired to recruit Nigerian youths to impersonate foreign nationals for financial gain. The EFCC also alleged that they retained over N3.4 billion in a Union Bank account, suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity.
Defendants Plead Not Guilty, Court Adjourns for Bail Hearing
During the court session, EFCC prosecutor Bilkisu Buhari requested a short trial date and urged the court to remand the accused in EFCC custody.
The defense counsel, Emeka Okonkwo, SAN, also requested that they remain in EFCC custody pending a bail hearing.
Justice Daniel Osiagor granted the request, ordering their remand in EFCC custody and adjourning the case for a bail hearing.
The trial is expected to continue as the EFCC intensifies its crackdown on cyber fraud and financial crimes in Nigeria.
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