Adjudicating Digital Laundering: Judicial Frameworks for Global Cyber-Enabled Transnational Financial Crime

Abstract

Technological advancement and the fast pace of growth of digital technology and global connectivity has not just encouraged economic development, it has also led to an increase rate of cyber-enabled transnational financial crime (CTFC), presenting a challenge to global economic stability and the rule of law. Crimes like complex ransomware schemes, business email compromises, and digital currency fraud and money laundering, exploit the borderless nature of cyberspace, creating a fundamental mismatch with territorially-bound judicial systems. While existing literature often focuses on law enforcement or regulatory responses, this article addresses a critical gap by addressing the fundamental, role of the judiciary as the cornerstone for successful prosecution and global compliance. This study employs a qualitative analysis of international legal frameworks, case law, and scholarly literature to dissect the tripartite challenge facing judges: navigating jurisdictional landscapes, overcoming complex digital evidence hurdles, and enduring procedural bottlenecks in mutual legal assistance. In response, the article proposes a comprehensive framework of judicial strategies, advocating for a model shift from passive adjudication to active case management. This framework emphasizes the need for enhanced international judicial cooperation, specialized judicial training in digital forensics and emerging technologies, and interpretative strategies that harmonize legal regimes. Drawing from the context of Nigeria as a case study from the Global South, the analysis provides a grounded perspective on these universal challenges. The article concludes that empowering the judiciary with these tools is not merely an option but a requirement for closing the global enforcement gap and upholding justice in the digital age.

Keywords: Cybercrime, Cyber – enabled, Judicial - frameworks, Judiciary, Money Laundering

DOI: 10.7176/JLPG/149-11

Publication date: November 28^th 2025