The Chinese Embassy has expressed its support for the Nigerian government’s efforts to tackle telecommunications and online fraud involving Chinese citizens and others.
However, it cautioned its citizens in Nigeria against engaging in any form of negative activity that could bring them into conflict with Nigerian authorities.
According to Vanguard, the Chinese government’s position was outlined in a statement released by the Chinese Embassy on Tuesday in Abuja.
The statement read in part, “Over the past year, Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies stepped up efforts to combat telecommunications and arrested a large number of 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 statement further emphasized, “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 legislation efforts.” It added, “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.”
Additionally, the statement noted, “Meanwhile, 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 Embassy affirmed its support for Nigeria’s anti-fraud efforts, stating, “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.”
It further explained, “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.”
