The criminal trial of four Chinese nationals accused of identity theft and cybercrime was delayed yesterday at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, following the defendants’ rejection of a court-appointed interpreter.

The defendants, Zhao Ying Bin, Yu Zi (also known as Wei Xuehuan), Zhang Yang, Weng Zhi Cheng, and Genting International Co. Limited, rejected the interpreter, claiming he lacked sufficient understanding of the Chinese language.

Justice Ayokunle Faji consequently adjourned the case to March 4 and 5, 2025, to allow the defendants to secure an interpreter of their choice.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested the accused in December 2024 for allegedly employing Nigerian youths in cybercrime activities, including identity theft.

During yesterday’s proceedings, the prosecutor, Hannatu Kofanaisa, informed the court of her readiness to commence the trial, subject to the court’s convenience. However, the defence counsel, N. Abraham, requested an adjournment, citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which mandates that defendants be provided with adequate facilities for their defence.

The defendants were first arraigned on February 6, 2025, on charges that, on December 11, 2024, they accessed computer systems with the intent to destabilise Nigeria’s constitutional structure. They allegedly employed Nigerian youths to commit identity theft and impersonate foreign nationals for financial gain.

The EFCC further accused Zhao Ying Bin of making a false representation by introducing himself as “Lisi Chuan” on his Telegram account to procure financial instruments for his employer.

The offences are said to contravene and are punishable under Sections 18 and 22(3) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended in 2024).

Justice Faji directed all parties to ensure the availability of the defendants’ preferred interpreter by the next adjourned dates.