The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has cautioned its citizens in the country against engaging in illicit activities.
The warning came on the heels of reports concerning a Chinese national tried by the Nigerian judiciary in connection with telecommunications and online fraud.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Embassy acknowledged that in recent years, Nigerian law enforcement agencies have intensified efforts to combat telecommunications fraud, leading to the arrest of numerous suspects, including some Chinese nationals.
The Embassy noted that telecommunications and online fraud are matters of global concern, adding that combating such transnational criminal activities remains a shared challenge for governments worldwide.
While reiterating its strong opposition to such crimes, the Chinese government directed its nationals to strictly comply with local laws and regulations and to refrain from engaging in illegal acts.
“The Chinese government maintains an unwavering stance against telecommunications and online fraud, and any form of cross-border illegal activities. This position is reinforced through stricter conduct regulations for citizens abroad and dedicated legislative efforts.
“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 read.
Meanwhile, the Chinese government reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and urged host countries to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its nationals.
“The Chinese government remains firmly committed to protecting its citizens’ interests abroad. Through diplomatic missions worldwide, it requests host governments to safeguard Chinese nationals’ legitimate rights and interests under local laws and regulations.
“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 further read.
