The Conviction of Two Chinese Nationals in Lagos: A Controversial Sentence
Two Chinese nationals, Huang Xiao Liang (also known as Liu Xiao Liang) and Shi Yang Xiong, have been sentenced to one year in prison each for their involvement in cyberterrorism and internet fraud. Their conviction took place in the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, where Justice Dehinde Dipeolu presided over the case. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), specifically the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1, secured the convictions after a lengthy legal process.
The two men were part of a larger group of 792 suspects arrested during a major sting operation called ‘Eagle Flush Operation’ on December 19, 2024. This operation targeted cryptocurrency investment and romance fraud rings that were active in Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos. Both individuals faced serious charges related to cyberterrorism and internet fraud, which are considered severe under Nigerian law due to their potential impact on national security and economic stability.
Huang Xiao Liang was charged with conspiring to access a computer system aimed at destabilizing and destroying Nigeria’s economy and social structure. The charge referenced Section 27 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition & Prevention) Act 2015. Initially, both defendants pleaded not guilty, but they changed their pleas during the court proceedings on Monday, July 14, 2025.
Prosecution counsel, U.S. Kyari, urged the court to convict them based on their guilty pleas. Justice Dipeolu followed through, sentencing both men to one year in prison, with an option of a ₦1,000,000 fine. In addition to the jail term, the judge ordered the forfeiture of all items recovered from the convicts to the Federal Government of Nigeria. He also directed the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service to ensure their repatriation to China within seven days of completing their sentences.
Despite the severity of the charges, the sentence has sparked widespread public debate. Many Nigerians expressed dissatisfaction with the light punishment for such serious offenses. Online discussions highlighted concerns about the adequacy of the sentence, with some users questioning whether the verdict was too lenient for cyberterrorism.
A significant point of contention arose from the EFCC’s public announcement. Only the photograph of Shi Yang Xiong was included in the official statement, while the image of Huang Xiao Liang was notably absent. This omission led to confusion and criticism among the public. Social media users raised questions about the discrepancy, with several commenting on the lack of transparency.
Emmanuel Perfect wrote: “Where is the second person, abi he don pay money?” Saint Moses Izuchi asked: “Please where is the picture of the other one?” Aliyu Mashal Nankap commented: “What is the meaning of your statement with one picture, and you mentioned 2 Chinese… Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, where is the second person?”
Beyond the photo controversy, many criticized the EFCC’s handling of the case and the perceived leniency of the sentence. Jumoke Sowemimo stated: “Well, I don’t know much about law, but I believe the one-year sentence is too low for a cyberterrorism crime.” Rokheeb added: “This report by EFCC is shaky. For the Chinese to have changed their plea from not guilty to guilty, they must have been told they will get a lesser sentence if they do so. This judgment looks somehow. It must be investigated.”
The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in addressing cybercrime, especially when dealing with international suspects. It also raises important questions about the effectiveness of the judicial system in delivering appropriate consequences for serious crimes. As public scrutiny continues, there is growing demand for transparency and accountability in such high-profile cases.
