In 2024, INTERPOL coordinated a major cybercrime operation across 21 African countries, known as Operation Serengeti III. The operation led to the arrest of 1,462 individuals suspected of involvement in cybercrime. Authorities disrupted 10,909 malicious online networks during the campaign.
The operation resulted in the recovery of approximately $105 million, equivalent to Ksh13.6 billion, from illicit funds. This amount was seized from cybercriminals engaged in various fraudulent activities, including cryptocurrency scams. According to ESET’s Allan Juma, the number of suspected cryptocurrency scam notifications in some African countries has increased by nearly 3,000% in recent months.
Operation Serengeti III was part of INTERPOL’s ongoing efforts to combat cyber-enabled crime. The operation highlighted the growing threat of digital fraud in the region, particularly in the cryptocurrency sector. The campaign demonstrated the effectiveness of international cooperation in tackling cybercrime.
The operation followed previous efforts by INTERPOL to address cybercrime in Africa. It marked a significant step in the fight against online fraud, with a focus on disrupting financial networks used by cybercriminals. The success of Operation Serengeti III underscores the need for continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies across borders.
