The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has addressed recent cases involving Chinese nationals tried by Nigerian judicial authorities for telecommunications and online fraud, reaffirming China’s commitment to combating such crimes and strengthening law enforcement collaboration with Nigeria.
In the statement on Tuesday, the embassy acknowledged Nigeria’s intensified efforts over the past year to tackle telecommunications fraud, which have led to the arrest of numerous suspects, including some Chinese nationals.
“Telecommunications and online fraud represent matters of common international concern, while containing such transnational criminal activities remains a shared challenge confronting governments worldwide,” the Embassy said.
The Embassy emphasized China’s “unwavering” zero-tolerance policy toward telecommunications and online fraud, as well as any cross-border illegal activities.
“The government mandates Chinese nationals overseas to strictly comply with local laws and regulations and abstain from illicit activities. China’s Anti-Telecommunications and Online Fraud Law, released in 2022, also demonstrates our zero-tolerance policy and resolute commitment to combating such crimes,” the statement said.
While condemning illicit activities, the Chinese government reiterated its commitment to protecting the legitimate rights and interests of its citizens abroad.
“The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria supports Nigeria’s efforts to combat telecommunications and online fraud. Building on this commitment and guided by the consensus reached between Chinese and Nigerian leaders, China stands ready to strengthen law enforcement cooperation with Nigeria.
“This includes joint operations targeting online gambling, scams, and other transnational crimes to foster a more peaceful and secure cyberspace.
“Such collaboration will safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese nationals in Nigeria and elevate the China-Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights,” the statement added.
