The People’s Republic of China has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s efforts to combat telecommunications and online fraud in the country. This commitment, China said, is guided by the consensus reached between the leadership of both countries.
In a strongly worded statement issued by its Embassy in Nigeria on Tuesday, the Chinese government observed that telecommunications and online fraud represented matters of common international concern, stressing that such transnational criminal activities remained a shared challenge confronting governments worldwide.
China noted that over the past year, Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies have stepped up efforts to combat cybercrimes and arrested a large number of suspects, including some Chinese nationals, describing it as a positive development.
Apparently embarrassed by the involvement of some of its its nationals in the criminal activities, the Chinese government said, it will continue to maintain an unwavering stance against telecommunications and online fraud, and any form of cross-border illegal activities.
The statement declared that China stands ready to strengthen law enforcement cooperation with Nigeria, including participating in joint operations targeting online gambling, scams, and other transnational crimes.to foster a more peaceful and secure cyberspace. Such collaboration, it said, will safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese nationals in Nigeria and elevate the China-Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights.
“This position is reinforced through stricter conduct regulations for citizens abroad and dedicated legislation 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.
“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 statement read.
