INTERPOL Africa Cybercrime Crackdown Nets 1,462 Arrests, Uncovers Crypto Laundering

INTERPOL’s latest cybercrime crackdown across Africa has resulted in 1,462 arrests and the recovery of more than $105 million in illicit funds, with a Nigerian investigation uncovering over $2.4 million in suspected proceeds linked to cryptocurrency laundering.

The operation, known as Operation Serengeti III, ran from June 29 to August 31, 2026, and involved law enforcement agencies from 21 countries. Investigators disrupted 10,909 malicious networks and identified 65,929 victims, while the financial losses linked to the criminal activities exceeded $385 million.

According to INTERPOL, the operation targeted cyber-enabled fraud, ransomware, phishing, business email compromise and other forms of digital crime.

Nigeria Investigation Uncovers $2.4 Million in Crypto Laundering

In Nigeria, investigators traced more than $2.4 million in suspected criminal proceeds linked to an international investment fraud scheme promoted through messaging applications.

Authorities arrested a suspect as they investigated the movement of the funds, much of which was allegedly laundered through cryptocurrency transactions.

The case highlights how digital assets can be used to move proceeds linked to suspected financial crimes across different channels and jurisdictions.

However, the cryptocurrency-related investigation represents one part of a much wider operation. INTERPOL’s overall figures include several types of cybercrime and should not be interpreted as cryptocurrency-specific results.

Angola Targets Illegal Crypto Mining

The operation also uncovered illegal cryptocurrency mining activities in Angola.

Authorities dismantled two mining centres, arrested nine suspects and seized more than 2,000 mining devices. Investigators also confiscated six illegal power transformation stations, with the seized electrical infrastructure valued at more than $1 million.

Elsewhere, authorities investigated fraudulent investment platforms in Uganda, a malicious mobile loan application in Tanzania and a vehicle import fraud scheme operating through social media in Gabon.

These cases demonstrate the range of cybercrime activities targeted during the operation, from financial fraud to illegal mining.

INTERPOL Reports $105 Million in Recoveries

Across the 21 participating countries, Operation Serengeti III produced the following results:

– 1,462 arrests

– 10,909 malicious networks disrupted

– More than $105 million in illicit funds recovered

– 65,929 victims identified

– More than $385 million in suspected criminal losses identified

INTERPOL said the operation relied on cooperation between law enforcement agencies and private-sector cybersecurity partners to identify criminal networks, analyse digital evidence and trace suspected proceeds.

For Africa’s cryptocurrency sector, the Nigerian investigation highlights the importance of monitoring suspicious transactions and strengthening anti-money laundering controls. At the same time, the findings underline the need to distinguish criminal use of digital assets from legitimate cryptocurrency activity.

INTERPOL said investigations are continuing as authorities work to identify additional suspects and trace funds linked to the criminal networks.

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Editorial Takeaway

INTERPOL’s crackdown highlights the growing challenge of tackling financial crime across Africa’s digital economy. 

The Nigerian investigation shows how cryptocurrency transactions can feature in money-laundering schemes, reinforcing the need for stronger transaction monitoring and effective anti-money laundering controls. 

However, distinguishing illicit activity from legitimate crypto use remains essential as African countries develop their digital asset industries.