Global Crackdown Unveils Cybercrime Web Spanning 18 Nations, $397.4M Seized

INTERPOL-led Operation Serengeti 2.0 has uncovered extensive cryptocurrency mining and fraudulent schemes across 18 African countries and the UK, resulting in the arrest of 1,209 cybercriminals and the recovery of $97.4 million in assets. The operation, which took place between June and August 2025, targeted high-impact cybercrimes including ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), and online investment scams. The scale of the operation underscores the growing transnational nature of cybercrime and the effectiveness of international law enforcement collaboration in addressing these threats [1].

A major focus of the operation was on cryptocurrency-related crimes, particularly in Angola, where authorities dismantled 25 illicit mining centers. These centers, operated by 60 Chinese nationals, were found to be validating blockchain transactions for profit. Alongside the arrest of individuals, law enforcement confiscated 45 illegal power stations and mining equipment valued at over $37 million. The Angolan government has indicated plans to repurpose the seized equipment to support energy distribution in underprivileged regions [1].

Zambian authorities also made significant progress in dismantling a large-scale investment fraud scheme targeting an estimated 65,000 victims. Scammers lured individuals with promises of high returns on cryptocurrency investments, directing them to download multiple apps to participate. The scheme reportedly caused $300 million in losses. In response, Zambian law enforcement arrested 15 individuals and seized key digital assets, including domains, mobile numbers, and bank accounts. Investigators continue to pursue overseas collaborators [1].

In addition to financial crimes, the operation uncovered links to human trafficking. Joint operations in Zambia with the Immigration Department led to the disruption of a suspected trafficking network, with 372 forged passports from seven countries being confiscated. These findings suggest that cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging digital infrastructure to facilitate broader illicit activities [1].

The operation was bolstered by extensive training and collaboration with private cybersecurity firms, including Cybercrime Atlas, Fortinet, and Group-IB, among others. Investigative teams received specialized instruction in open-source intelligence, ransomware analysis, and cryptocurrency investigations, enhancing their capabilities to conduct complex digital forensics. The operation also partnered with the International Cyber Offender Prevention Network (InterCOP), a proactive initiative led by the Netherlands aimed at preventing cybercrime before it occurs [1].

INTERPOL’s Secretary General, Valdecy Urquiza, emphasized the operation’s success as a testament to global cooperation and shared expertise. He noted that each successive coordinated effort has yielded greater results, reinforcing the strength of the international law enforcement network. The operation was funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and is part of the broader African Joint Operation against Cybercrime [1].

Source: [1] African authorities dismantle massive cybercrime and fraud networks, recover millions (https://www.interpol.int/News-and-Events/News/2025/African-authorities-dismantle-massive-cybercrime-and-fraud-networks-recover-millions)