China backs Nigeria’s crackdown on cybercrime, pledges stronger cooperation on cases involving citizens

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has expressed strong support for Nigeria’s ongoing crackdown on telecommunications and online fraud, particularly as some Chinese nationals have recently faced trial over their alleged involvement in cybercrime activities in the country.

In a statement issued by the Embassy, China acknowledged that a number of its citizens were among those arrested in the past year as Nigerian law enforcement agencies intensified operations targeting telecommunications-related crimes and internet scams.

The Embassy reaffirmed Beijing’s unwavering stance against all forms of telecommunications and online fraud, emphasizing that these are global challenges that require international cooperation to effectively tackle.

It noted that combating transnational crime remains a shared responsibility of the international community.

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“The Chinese government maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward telecommunications and online fraud, including any cross-border illegal activity,” the statement read.

It added that China has reinforced this position by introducing stricter conduct regulations for its citizens abroad and enacting targeted legislation, most notably the Anti-Telecommunications and Online Fraud Law passed in 2022.

According to the Embassy, the Chinese government mandates that its nationals strictly observe the laws and regulations of host countries and refrain from engaging in illegal acts.

At the same time, it stressed China’s commitment to protecting the legitimate rights and interests of its citizens abroad, urging host countries, including Nigeria, to do the same within the framework of local laws.

The statement comes in the wake of recent court rulings in Nigeria that saw several Chinese nationals convicted of cybercrime offences, prompting international attention.

While reiterating its respect for Nigeria’s judicial process, the Chinese Embassy emphasized that China supports the country’s efforts to eliminate online fraud and other digital crimes.

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The Chinese government expressed its readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation with Nigeria in the area of law enforcement.

“This would include joint operations targeting internet scams, online gambling networks, and other forms of cyber-enabled transnational crime.

“Guided by the consensus reached between Chinese and Nigerian leaders, we are committed to strengthening law enforcement collaboration with Nigeria to help create a safer cyberspace.

“This partnership will also help to safeguard the legitimate interests of Chinese citizens living and doing business in Nigeria, while advancing the China-Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership”, the Embassy said.