China Backs Nigeria’s Crackdown on Online Fraud, Warns Citizens to Obey Local Laws

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has declared full support for the Nigerian government’s efforts to combat telecommunications and online fraud, particularly cases involving Chinese nationals and other foreign suspects.

In a statement made available to Vanguard on Tuesday in Abuja, the Embassy reaffirmed China’s zero-tolerance stance on cybercrime and other cross-border criminal activities. It also warned its citizens residing in Nigeria to strictly adhere to local laws and avoid any unlawful behaviour.

“Over the past year, Nigerian law enforcement agencies have intensified their crackdown on telecommunications fraud, leading to the arrest of numerous suspects, including Chinese nationals,” the Embassy noted.

The statement emphasized that telecom and online fraud are global concerns requiring coordinated international responses. It added that China’s own Anti-Telecommunications and Online Fraud Law, enacted in 2022, underscores Beijing’s firm commitment to tackling such crimes both domestically and abroad.

“The Chinese government urges its citizens overseas to comply with local laws and regulations at all times,” the Embassy said, stressing that any breach of Nigerian law would not be tolerated.

In line with this, China expressed its willingness to deepen law enforcement cooperation with Nigeria. According to the Embassy, this includes joint operations targeting online scams, gambling, and other transnational crimes, with the goal of fostering a safer digital space for both countries.

Additionally, while backing Nigeria’s anti-fraud campaign, China emphasized its responsibility to protect the legitimate rights and interests of its citizens abroad, through active diplomatic engagement and collaboration.

The Embassy concluded by expressing hope that enhanced bilateral cooperation in law enforcement would further strengthen the China-Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.