22 Chinese nationals have admitted to engaging in cyber-related offenses in Zambia.
These individuals were part of a group of 77 suspects arrested in connection with an elaborate internet fraud syndicate that targeted a Chinese-operated firm in Lusaka
The surge in internet fraud cases prompted Zambian authorities to take action.
Following trials that spanned several weeks, the 22 Chinese nationals, including one female, pleaded guilty to three charges, namely computer-related misrepresentation, identity-related crimes, and illegally operating a network or service. They, along with a Cameroonian national, were accused of manipulating individuals' identities online to carry out scams. The group held various positions within Golden Top Support Services, the company at the center of the investigation.
The individuals involved in the fraudulent activities included both Zambians and Chinese nationals. The Zambian nationals were charged previously and were released on bail to aid in the investigations. They were found to have engaged in deceptive conversations with unsuspecting mobile users through platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and chatrooms by employing scripted dialogues.
The operation resulted in the confiscation of equipment that allowed individuals to conceal their location, as well as thousands of SIM cards. Additionally, 11 SIM boxes, devices used to route calls across authentic phone networks, were uncovered. Moreover, authorities impounded two firearms, about 78 rounds of ammunition, and two vehicles belonging to a Chinese national associated with the business during the raid.
The Chinese-operated company, situated in Roma, an affluent suburb of Lusaka, has not yet commented on the allegations. The local media reports that the sentenced for the Chinese nationals would be on Friday.
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foreign