◾This case should serve as a model for other countries looking to combat the rise of sophisticated cybercrime networks and hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.
◾The Zambian government has demonstrated its resolve to crack down on such activities and protect its citizens from the growing threat of online fraud and identity theft.
By Mpandashalo Mwewa.
Lusaka, June 12 – In a recent ruling, a Zambian court sentenced 22 Chinese nationals and a Cameroonian man to lengthy prison terms for their involvement in a cybercrime network that targeted victims in the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Peru.
The magistrate’s court in Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, handed down sentences ranging from 7 to 11 years, with the mastermind, Lee Sanin, receiving the harshest punishment of an 11-year term.
As Zambia uncovers a “sophisticated internet fraud syndicate” leading to the arrest of 77 people, including 22 Chinese nationals.
◾The Illegal Operation and Its Victims: The cybercrime network, known as the “Golden Top Support Services,” operated from a high-end neighbourhood in Lusaka. The convicts were found guilty of computer-related misrepresentation, identity theft, and the illegal operation of a network. The prosecution described the suspects as a sophisticated internet fraud syndicate, with Zambian authorities arresting 77 people, including the convicts, in April 2022.
The victims of this cybercrime network were unsuspecting mobile users from various parts of the world, including the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Peru. The young Zambian call center agents, aged between 20 and 25, were hired to engage in deceptive conversations with the victims using scripted dialogues across platforms such as WhatsApp, WhatsaApp, and Telegram chat rooms.
◾The Crackdown and Confiscated Evidence: During the arrests, the Zambian authorities recovered more than 13,000 SIM cards and devices that allowed the callers to disguise their location. Additionally, two firearms, 78 rounds of ammunition, and two vehicles belonging to a Chinese national linked to the business were confiscated.
The court was told that the convicts were operating the “Golden Top Support Services” firm, which was located in the Roma neighbourhood of Lusaka. This sophisticated cybercrime network had been targeting Zambian citizens and businesses, with research showing that more than 10 million cyber attacks were recorded in 2021 alone.
◾The Sentencing and Fines: The court handed down harsh sentences to the convicts, with the only female convict, Gu Chanha, receiving a 7-year term, and the mastermind, Lee Sanin, receiving an 11-year prison sentence. In addition to the jail terms, each of the convicts was fined between $1,500 and $3,000.
The sentencing of the Chinese nationals and the Cameroonian man is a significant step in Zambia’s efforts to combat the rising tide of cybercrime. The country has seen a sharp increase in cases of people losing money from their mobile and bank accounts, and the authorities have been working to address this issue.
The arrest and conviction of the members of this sophisticated internet fraud syndicate send a clear message that Zambia will not tolerate such criminal activities. The confiscation of the SIM cards, devices, firearms, and vehicles further demonstrates the government’s commitment to disrupting the operations of these cybercriminals.
◾The Importance of International Cooperation: The case also highlights the need for international cooperation in tackling cybercrime. The victims of this network were located in various parts of the world, underscoring the global nature of such crimes. By working together with authorities in other countries, Zambia can strengthen its efforts to protect its citizens and businesses from the devastating effects of cybercrime.
Also Read: Deputy Commissioner Nawa Bolsters INTERPOL Secretary General Campaign in Egypt.
“It is time for Africa to fully participate at a strategic level of INTERPOL, setting the agenda rather than just being part of it!” observes Egypt’s Deputy Assistant Interior Minister, Mohamed Negm.
◾Conclusion: The sentencing of the Chinese nationals and the Cameroonian man in Zambia serves as a stark warning to those involved in cybercrime. The Zambian government has demonstrated its resolve to crack down on such activities and protect its citizens from the growing threat of online fraud and identity theft.
This case should serve as a model for other countries looking to combat the rise of sophisticated cybercrime networks and hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.
About The Author: Mpandashalo Mwewa holds the position of Chief Editor at Woodpecker’s Digest, having previously served in the same capacity at Zambia Reports and Eagle One – Zambia. Recognized as a Pan-African advocate for education reforms emphasizing critical thinking, Mpandashalo utilizes journalism as a means to drive social change.
About Our Advocacy: Woodpecker’s Digest is an online platform that delivers news analyses and commentaries on pertinent issues of national interest, along with articles on personal development and health. Journalism stands as a powerful instrument for driving positive socio-economic transformation!
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