Interpol arrests 24 Kenyans in major operation against credit card fraudsters
By Lucy Mumbi |
Dubbed ‘Operation Serengeti,’ the operation focused on dismantling criminal networks exploiting banking systems and engaging in fraudulent activities.
An operation conducted from September 2 to October 31, 2024, has led to the arrest of nearly 24 individuals in Kenya in connection with a large-scale online credit card fraud scheme that resulted in losses of approximately $8.6 million (Sh1.1 billion).
The arrests were part of a broader crackdown by INTERPOL and AFRIPOL, targeting digital crimes such as ransomware, online scams, and cyber extortion across 19 African countries.
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Dubbed ‘Operation Serengeti,’ the operation focused on dismantling criminal networks exploiting banking systems and engaging in fraudulent activities.
The suspects in Kenya were involved in altering banking system security protocols and diverting funds through a SWIFT code, transferring money to companies in the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, China, and digital asset institutions.
SWIFT codes are unique identifiers used by banks to exchange messages and facilitate money transfers between institutions.
Major cybercrime operation nets 1,006 suspects🖥️
— INTERPOL (@INTERPOL_HQ) November 26, 2024
Authorities across 19 African countries dismantled 134,089 malicious infrastructures and identified over 35,000 victims thanks to a joint operation by #INTERPOL and AFRIPOL against cybercrime.
Full story🔗https://t.co/Mpv82g0Ah8 pic.twitter.com/P4A60Ro3tK
Across the African continent, the operation resulted in the arrest of 1,006 individuals and the dismantling of 134,089 malicious networks linked to cybercrime activities.
Additionally, 35,000 victims were identified globally, with total financial losses amounting to approximately $193 million (Sh25 billion).
INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza, expressed confidence in the success of the operation, highlighting the importance of international collaboration.
"Operation Serengeti shows what we can achieve by working together, and these arrests alone will save countless potential future victims from real personal and financial pain," he said.
"We know that this is just the tip of the iceberg, which is why we will continue targeting these criminal groups worldwide."
Ambassador Jalel Chelba, Executive Director of AFRIPOL, reiterated the significance of the operation in tackling cybercrime across the continent.
“Through Serengeti, AFRIPOL has significantly enhanced support for law enforcement in African Union Member States. We’ve facilitated key arrests and deepened insights into cybercrime trends,” he said.
Data shared by participating countries on ongoing cases with INTERPOL contributed to the creation of 65 Cyber Analytical Reports, which helped ensure that actions on the ground were guided by intelligence and targeted at the most significant criminal players.
Private sector partners, such as Internet Service Providers, also played a crucial role by providing intelligence, aiding in analysis, and helping disrupt criminal activities.
They offered on-site support and continuous remote assistance to address vulnerabilities and protect critical infrastructure in the member countries involved.
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