Interpol’s recent three-month operation, codenamed Serengeti 2.0, resulted in a major win against cybercrime across Africa. From June to August 2025, the operation netted over 1,200 arrests and recovered nearly $100 million in stolen funds and assets.
A Continent-Wide Sweep
The operation involved 18 African countries, along with the UK and several private sector partners. They targeted a range of crimes, including illegal cryptocurrency mining, investment scams, ransomware, and phishing. The combined efforts dismantled over 11,000 malicious online infrastructures linked to almost 88,000 victims.
Key Highlights
- Angola’s Big Bust: Authorities shut down 25 illegal cryptocurrency mining operations run by 60 Chinese nationals, seizing $37 million worth of equipment and 45 unauthorized power stations.
- Zambia’s Investment Fraud: A massive crypto investment scam was uncovered, with 65,000 victims and losses totaling $300 million. 15 arrests were made, and various assets were seized. A related human trafficking operation was also disrupted, resulting in the seizure of 372 forged passports.
- Ivory Coast’s Inheritance Scam: A cross-border inheritance scam originating in Germany was dismantled. The scam netted about $1.6 million, and the main suspect was arrested along with various assets.
International Collaboration Makes the Difference
Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza highlighted the importance of international cooperation in achieving such significant results. The operation’s success underscores the growing need for collaboration and information sharing to combat increasingly sophisticated cybercrimes. Participating nations included Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa, with private partners such as TRM Labs, Trend Micro, and Team Cypru providing crucial support.