The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday adjourned the arraignment of 109 foreigners accused of cybercrime, money laundering, and immigration offenses.
The suspects, comprising nationals from China, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Brazil, Malaysia, and Myanmar, were arrested by the police at their residence at Plot 1906, Cadestral Zone 807, Katampe District where they allegedly managed unregistered platforms.
Investigators claim these platforms targeted users with false claims, generating illicit proceeds that were moved out of Nigeria.
The Inspector-General of Police filed a six-count charge against the foreigners, accusing them of cybercrime, money laundering, and residing unlawfully in Nigeria.
The offenses contravene various sections of cybercrime (prohibition, prevention, etc.). Act, 2015 (as amended in 2024), the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Immigration Act, 2015.
When the matter came up for hearing, counsel for the Inspector-General of Police, A.A. Egwu, expressed readiness to proceed with the arraignment. However, Justice Akpan observed that the defendants lacked legal representation and emphasized the necessity of ensuring their right to a fair trial.
The judge directed the defendants to secure legal counsel before the next hearing and adjourned the case to November 22.
