Nigerian Court Adjourns Trial Of Chinese Nationals Over Alleged Cybercrime As Defendants Reject Interpreter
The trial of five Chinese nationals accused of cybercrime and identity theft suffered a setback on Monday, February 10, 2025, after the defendants rejected the court-appointed interpreter.
Presiding over the case, Justice Ayokunle Faji adjourned the proceedings to March 4 and 5 to allow for the appointment of a preferred interpreter.
The accused individuals—Zhao Ying Bin, Yu Zi (a.k.a. Wei Xuehuan), Zhang Yang, Wang Zhi Cheng, and Genting International Co. Limited—were arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly employing Nigerian youths in identity theft and cybercrime activities.
According to the EFCC, the defendants willfully accessed computer systems in a manner that posed a serious threat to Nigeria’s constitutional structure. They allegedly used stolen identities to impersonate foreign nationals for financial gain, violating Section 18 of the Cybercrimes Prohibition Act, 2015 (Amended 2024).
Additionally, the EFCC accused Zhao Ying Bin of providing false information by introducing himself as “Lisi Chuan” on Telegram to fraudulently obtain financial instruments for his employer, an offence punishable under Section 22(3) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.
During Monday’s hearing, prosecution counsel Hannatu Kofanaisa informed the court that the prosecution was ready to proceed. However, defence counsel N. Abraham, a former EFCC prosecutor, requested an adjournment, citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which ensures adequate time and resources for defendants to prepare their defence.
In response, Justice Faji granted the adjournment, rescheduling the trial for March 4 and 5, 2025.
The case remains a high-profile cybercrime prosecution, drawing attention to the growing concern over foreign nationals’ involvement in digital fraud schemes within Nigeria.
