The recent crackdown on cybercrime across Africa reveals the increasing necessity for collaborative enforcement against technological threats. Spearheaded by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), this extensive operation targeted rampant illegal activities including illicit cryptocurrency mining, inheritance fraud, and investment scams, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering cybersecurity on the continent.
Highlights of Operation Serengeti 2.0
In a groundbreaking initiative dubbed Serengeti 2.0, which unfolded from June to August 2025, a synchronized effort across 18 African nations, in partnership with the UK and various private-sector entities, yielded significant results. The outcome was the arrest of over 1,200 individuals and the recovery of nearly $100 million in stolen property and assets. This formidable operation dismantled more than 11,000 illicit frameworks linked to approximately 88,000 victims affected by severe online crimes.
For instance, law enforcement in Angola targeted illegal cryptocurrency mines, shutting down 25 operations run by 60 Chinese nationals and shutting down 45 power stations supplying electricity to them. The total value of seized equipment exceeded $37 million.
In Zambia, authorities uncovered a significant investment scam that defrauded around 65,000 individuals, leading to a staggering $300 million in losses. This bust resulted in the apprehension of 15 suspects and the confiscation of key evidence, including domains and bank accounts linked to fraudulent activities.
Furthermore, Interpol notes that the Ivorian police successfully thwarted a large-scale inheritance scam thought to have its roots in Germany. Victims were tricked into paying fees for fictitious inheritance claims, generating an illicit income of $1.6 million. The main suspect is now in custody, with authorities seizing cash, jewelry, and luxury vehicles.
Reflecting on the achievement of Operation Serengeti 2.0, Interpol’s Secretary General, Valdecy Urquiza, highlighted the critical role of international collaboration in enhancing effectiveness:
“Each INTERPOL-coordinated operation builds progressively, fostering partnerships, enhancing information sharing, and refining investigative skills among member nations. The more we collaborate, the more impactful our results become.”
The operation was part of the broader African Joint Operation Against Cybercrime, involving collaboration with countries like Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. Notable private participants included TRM Labs, Trend Micro, and Team Cypru, emphasizing the essential role of public-private partnerships in tackling cybercrime.
Current State of the Cryptocurrency Market
As of the latest data, the global cryptocurrency market cap has reached an impressive $3.95 trillion, marking a 3.87% increase within the last 24 hours. This surge reflects a marked rise in trading activity, with daily volumes soaring to $157.12 billion. Leading the market, Bitcoin is currently valued at $115,811, while Ethereum sits at $4,700, both exhibiting robust performance amidst favorable market trends.
Image courtesy of Interpol, chart from TradingView.
