More than 1,200 cybercriminals have been arrested in a large-scale Interpol operation that spanned 18 African countries and the United Kingdom.
The operation, called Operation Serengeti 2.0, disrupted networks accused of defrauding 88,000 victims and led to the recovery of about $97.4 million.
Authorities in Angola carried out some of the most notable seizures. They shut down 25 crypto mining facilities and accused 60 Chinese nationals of illegally validating blockchain transactions.
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Along with the arrests, 45 unauthorized electricity plants and mining equipment worth more than $37 million were confiscated. Officials said this hardware will be redirected to help supply power to low-income areas.
Investigators also exposed an “online investment fraud scheme” that encouraged people to invest in digital assets through flashy advertisements. The scam trapped 65,000 victims and caused losses of nearly $300 million.
Fifteen people have been detained so far, with evidence, such as domains, phone numbers, and bank accounts, already secured.
The campaign also stretched beyond financial crime. In Angola, officers disrupted a suspected trafficking network and seized 372 fake passports tied to seven different nationalities.
Preparations for Serengeti 2.0 began well in advance. Law enforcement teams were trained in blockchain analysis and ransomware tracking. Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza explained:
Each Interpol-coordinated operation builds on the last, deepening cooperation, increasing information sharing and developing investigative skills across member countries.
Recently, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) removed more than 14,000 fraudulent websites over the past two years. What did the agency say? Read the full story.
