The Federal High Court in Abuja, Nigeria, has ordered the remand of 109 foreign nationals accused of cybercrime, hacking, and activities threatening Nigeria’s national security. Justice Ekerete Akpan directed that the suspects be held at Kuje and Suleja correctional facilities until November 29, 2024, when their arraignment is expected to proceed.
The arraignment, originally scheduled for Friday, was stalled due to discrepancies in the suspects’ names on the charge sheet and unresolved issues of legal representation. During the hearing, defense counsel Ogwu Onoja called for interpreters to assist non-English-speaking defendants, while Eric Oba, representing Brazilian nationals, requested that his clients be separated from the larger group. However, the court declined, citing the need to first address the fundamental issue of arraignment.
The suspects, including 113 foreign nationals from China, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, the Philippines, and Malaysia, as well as 17 Nigerian collaborators, were apprehended on November 3 during a coordinated raid in Abuja’s Jahi area. Authorities allege the group used advanced technology to facilitate fraudulent online activities, including an unregistered gambling platform that caused significant economic losses both within and outside Nigeria.
In addition to allegations under the Cybercrimes Act, prosecutors claim the suspects violated immigration laws by overstaying their 30-day business permits without obtaining valid residency documents.
Justice Akpan adjourned the case to allow defense counsel adequate time to resolve procedural issues and provide appropriate legal representation. However, the court also noted the urgent need to address the overcrowded police facilities where the suspects were initially held.
The case has now been set for November 29, when the court hopes to proceed with the arraignment without further delays.
