INTERPOL Foils Cybercrime Network: 1,209 Arrested Across 18 African Nations in Major Operation
On August 22, 2025, INTERPOL revealed that law enforcement agencies from 18 African countries have apprehended 1,209 cybercriminals responsible for targeting 88,000 victims. The coordinated effort recovered $97.4 million and dismantled over 11,432 malicious operations, highlighting the widespread nature of cybercrime and the critical need for international collaboration. This operation, part of the ongoing initiative known as Operation Serengeti, spanned from June to August 2025 and aimed at combating serious offenses such as ransomware, online scams, and business email compromises. The first wave of arrests took place late last year. Notably, the operation led to the closure of 25 illegal cryptocurrency mining centers in Angola, involving 60 Chinese nationals in the fraudulent scheme. Authorities also identified and seized 45 illegal power stations, alongside mining and IT infrastructure valued at over $37 million, designated for government use.