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Summary
- Interpol’s Operation Serengeti 2.0 led to the apprehension of over 1,200 cybercriminals across 18 African nations and the U.K., resulting in the seizure of $97.4 million.
- In Angola, authorities dismantled 25 illicit crypto mining operations managed by Chinese nationals, confiscating equipment and power stations valued at $37 million.
- Zambia’s law enforcement disrupted a large-scale investment scam that defrauded 65,000 individuals out of $300 million through fraudulent crypto schemes.
Interpol has taken action against over 1,200 cybercriminals, who collectively targeted 88,000 victims, including those involved in cryptocurrency fraud.
This extensive operation brought together 18 African countries and the U.K. for Operation Serengeti 2.0, resulting in the confiscation of more than $97.4 million.
In Angola, officials dismantled 25 illegal crypto mining sites, with reports claiming that 60 Chinese nationals were validating blockchain transactions and acquiring digital assets unlawfully.
Officials report that mining apparatus and 45 unauthorized power stations valued at over $37 million were confiscated, which will now be allocated for power distribution in underserved regions.
In a related effort, Zambian authorities dismantled a “large-scale online investment fraud operation,” which caused losses of $300 million to 65,000 victims.
Victims were misled into investing in digital assets through aggressive marketing tactics promising high returns.
“Fifteen individuals were arrested, and crucial evidence—including domains, mobile contacts, and bank accounts—was seized. Ongoing investigations aim to trace international associates,” stated Interpol.
Separately, a suspected human trafficking ring was disrupted, resulting in the recovery of 372 fraudulent passports from seven different nations.
Before Operation Serengeti 2.0, investigators underwent training in blockchain analytics and ransomware analysis, equipping themselves with advanced open-source intelligence tools.
“Each operation coordinated by Interpol builds upon the last, strengthening collaboration, enhancing information sharing, and refining investigative techniques among member nations,” remarked Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza.
The scale of the arrests highlights the extensive reach of cybercrime and the pressing necessity for international collaboration.
The operation was financed by the U.K.’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Decrypt has reached out for comments but has not received any response from the governmental body.
In other news, Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission announced the deportation of multiple individuals convicted of “cyberterrorism and internet fraud,” primarily hailing from China and the Philippines.
Some cases involved romance scams, where victims were deceived into investing money into fake crypto opportunities.
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