Interpol's African Cybercrime Crackdown Nets Over 1,200 Arrests and Millions in Recovered Funds

Operation Serengeti 2.0: A Major Blow to African Cybercrime

Interpol has announced a massive success in its fight against cybercrime, with a coordinated operation across 18 African nations leading to the arrest of 1,209 cybercriminals. The crackdown, codenamed Operation Serengeti 2.0, also resulted in the recovery of nearly $97.4 million and the dismantling of extensive malicious infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

• 1,209 cybercriminals arrested across 18 African nations.

• $97.4 million recovered from victims.

• 87,858 victims targeted by the criminal network.

• Operation focused on ransomware, online scams, and business email compromise (BEC).

• Significant actions taken in Angola, Zambia, and Côte d’Ivoire.

Operation Details and Scope

Operation Serengeti 2.0, which ran from June to August 2025, built upon previous efforts to combat cybercrime on the continent. The operation involved law enforcement agencies from the UK and 18 African countries, supported by private cybersecurity firms and nonprofit organizations. These partners provided crucial intelligence, training, and technical expertise to aid investigators.

The cybercriminal network targeted was estimated to have defrauded 87,858 victims, causing a total monetary loss of over $484 million. Their activities spanned various illicit operations, including ransomware attacks, sophisticated online scams, and business email compromise schemes.

Notable Raids and Recoveries

Several key operations were highlighted during the crackdown:

• Angola: Law enforcement dismantled 25 illegal cryptocurrency mining centers operated by 60 Chinese nationals. The operation seized mining equipment and 45 illicit power stations valued at over $37 million, which are slated to support power distribution in underserved areas.

• Zambia: Authorities uncovered and dismantled a large-scale online investment fraud scheme that defrauded over 65,000 victims of an estimated $300 million through fake cryptocurrency advertisements and fraudulent apps. Fifteen suspects were arrested, and associated domains, mobile numbers, and bank accounts were seized. A scam center was also raided, disrupting a suspected human trafficking network.

• Côte d’Ivoire: A cross-border inheritance scam, originating in Germany, was taken down. Victims were tricked into paying fees for non-existent inheritances, leading to losses of $1.6 million. The primary suspect was arrested, and assets including electronics, jewelry, cash, and vehicles were confiscated.

Interpol's Commitment to Global Cooperation

Valdecy Urquiza, Secretary General of Interpol, emphasized the growing scale and success of Interpol-led operations. He stated, "Each Interpol-coordinated operation builds on the last, deepening cooperation, increasing information sharing and developing investigative skills across member countries." The operation also included a preventative element through a partnership with the International Cyber Offender Prevention Network (InterCOP).

This successful operation underscores the critical need for international collaboration in combating the ever-evolving threat of cybercrime, protecting individuals and businesses across the globe. As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, your security strategy must evolve to keep pace. BetterWorld Technology offers adaptive cybersecurity solutions that grow with the threat landscape, helping your business stay secure while continuing to innovate. Reach out today to schedule your personalized consultation.

Sources

• Interpol-Led African Cybercrime Crackdown Leads to 1209 Arrests, Infosecurity Magazine.

• Interpol cybercrime crackdown in Africa leads to the arrest of over 1,200 suspects, ABC News.

• INTERPOL Arrests 1,209 Cybercriminals Across 18 African Nations in Global Crackdown, The Hacker News.