Gambia Court Convicts Five Nigerians in Major Cybercrime Case

The Gambia Police Force has announced the conviction of five Nigerian nationals in a landmark cybercrime case, marking a significant breakthrough in the country’s ongoing fight against digital-related criminal activities.

The case, heard at the Brikama Magistrates’ Court, involved charges ranging from unlawful possession of devices and data to computer-related extortion, fraud, and forgery. According to police officials, all five defendants, including Henry Obinna, entered guilty pleas to the charges brought against them.

Following their conviction, the men were ordered to be held at Mile II Central Prison in Banjul, one of the country’s most secure correctional facilities. They are currently awaiting plea in mitigation and sentencing, which the court has scheduled for October 6, 2025.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Gambia Police Force confirmed the convictions and emphasized its commitment to confronting all forms of cyber-enabled crimes.

“The five convicts have been remanded at Mile II Central Prison pending plea in mitigation and sentencing, scheduled for October 6, 2025,” the police stated.

Authorities Reaffirm Zero Tolerance for Cybercrime

The Gambia Police Force described the convictions as a major success in its broader campaign against cybercrime, which has become a rising concern in both The Gambia and the wider West African region. Law enforcement authorities stressed that cybercriminal activities not only damage the economy but also undermine public trust and national security.

“We will continue to pursue such offences with diligence and professionalism to protect citizens and safeguard national security,” the statement added.

Cybercrime has become a regional problem across West Africa, with scammers and fraudsters often targeting individuals, businesses, and even government institutions. The Gambia, a small but strategically located nation, has been stepping up security operations to clamp down on illegal online activities and cross-border syndicates.

Regional Impact of Cybercrime

This case comes at a time when several West African countries are grappling with the social and economic impact of cyber-related offences. According to international cybercrime watchdogs, millions of dollars are lost annually due to fraud schemes, identity theft, and financial scams that often originate from organized networks.

The conviction of the five Nigerians in The Gambia underscores how widespread and interconnected such crimes have become. Analysts say that the ruling could serve as a deterrent to other offenders and signal the country’s readiness to strengthen its judicial processes against cyber fraud.

Sentencing Scheduled for October 6

With sentencing just days away, legal experts anticipate that the court may impose strong penalties in order to send a clear message about the country’s zero tolerance for cybercrime. Observers note that the verdict could also encourage stronger cooperation between The Gambia and Nigeria in addressing transnational crime.

The identities of the other four convicts, aside from Henry Obinna, were not immediately made public by authorities at press time.

For many Gambians, the case has reignited conversations about the need for stronger digital regulations and international cooperation in tackling cybercrime. Public reaction has been mixed, with some expressing frustration that foreign nationals continue to tarnish their country’s reputation, while others praised the police for acting swiftly.

As the October 6 sentencing date approaches, all eyes will remain on the Brikama Magistrates’ Court to see how the justice system ultimately handles what has been described as one of the country’s most high-profile cybercrime cases.