In a groundbreaking collaboration, INTERPOL and AFRIPOL joined forces in Operation Serengeti, leading to the arrest of 1,006 suspects, dismantling over 134,000malicious infrastructures, and identifying 35,000 victims. The operation, which ran from September 2 to October 31, 2024, targeted key cyberthreats including ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), digital extortion, and online scams, collectively linked to nearly USD 193 million in global financial losses.
Major Outcomes
· 65 Cyber Analytical Reports guided intelligence-driven enforcement actions.
· Partnerships with private-sector entities ensured real-time assistance, vulnerability patches, and critical infrastructure protection.
“These arrests alone will save countless potential future victims,” stated INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza.
Notable Successes Across Africa
Kenya:$8.6 Million Credit Card Fraud Uncovered
Officers uncovered a sophisticated fraud network exploiting banking system vulnerabilities. The stolen funds were funneled internationally via SWIFT and digital asset institutions. Nearly two dozen arrests have been made.
Senegal:$6 Million Ponzi Scheme Dismantled
Eight individuals, including five Chinese nationals, were arrested for running a scheme that defrauded 1,811 victims. Seized evidence included 900 SIM cards, USD 11,000 in cash, and victims' ID copies.
Nigeria: Cryptocurrency Scam Ringleader Arrested
Authorities apprehended a scammer who pocketed USD 300,000 by promising fraudulent cryptocurrency returns via messaging platforms.
Cameroon: Multi-Level Marketing Scam Exposed
Victims from seven countries were trafficked and coerced into recruiting others. The scheme netted at least USD 150,000, and perpetrators are in custody.
Angola: Virtual Casino Fraud Halted
An international syndicate defrauding gamblers was dismantled. Over 150 arrests were made, with officers seizing 200 computers and 100 mobile phones.
Advancing Regional and Global Cybersecurity
AFRIPOL’s Executive Director, Ambassador Jalel Chelba, emphasized the need for vigilance against emerging threats like AI-driven malware and advanced attack techniques.
Supported by funding from the UK, Germany, and the Council of Europe, Operation Serengeti highlights the power of collaboration in combating cybercrime.
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