Nigerian Court Sentences Two Chinese Nationals to 46 Years in Prison for Multi-Billion Naira Cybercrime Scheme

In a significant legal development, the Federal High Court in Lagos, Nigeria, has sentenced two Chinese nationals, Huang Haoyu and Ken Hongxu, to 46 years in prison for their roles in a multi-billion Naira cybercrime and money laundering scheme. The court also imposed a fine of N56 million on each convict.

The convicted individuals, directors of Gent Intern Co Limited, were found guilty of orchestrating a scheme involving internet cryptocurrency fraud. The court further directed their repatriation to China after serving their sentences.

Additionally, the court proceedings involved a third defendant, Audu Friday, who initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea to guilty. The prosecution team, led by Bridget Omateno and Bilkisu Buhari Bala, sought maximum sentences for the convicted individuals, emphasizing the gravity of the charges.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of extensive assets recovered during the investigation, including mobile phones, office furniture, computers, vehicles, and other items linked to the illicit activities.