Cybercrime Crackdown: INTERPOL's Serengeti 2.0 Operation Nets $97.4 Million

Cybercrime Crackdown: INTERPOL's Serengeti 2.0 Operation Nets $97.4 Million in Illicit Funds

In a landmark effort to combat cybercrime in Africa, INTERPOL has successfully disrupted several cybercrime networks, resulting in the arrest of 1,209 suspected cybercriminals and the seizure of $97.4 million in illicit funds. The operation, dubbed Serengeti 2.0, spanned from June to August 2025 and involved collaboration with authorities from 18 African countries and the United Kingdom.

This massive sting operation targeted various forms of cybercrime, including ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), and online scams, which have plagued the region in recent years. According to INTERPOL's Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report, these types of cybercrimes have resulted in significant financial losses for thousands of victims.

The success of Serengeti 2.0 can be attributed to the sharing of intelligence and expertise among participating countries. Private sector partners played a crucial role in providing valuable insights into crypto crimes, ransomware analysis, and digital forensics, enabling authorities to track down and dismantle illicit online infrastructures.

One notable example of the operation's success is in Angola, where police shut down 25 illegal cryptocurrency mining centers operated by 60 Chinese nationals. The raid resulted in the seizure of 45 illicit power stations and IT equipment valued at over $37 million, which the government plans to repurpose for power distribution in underserved areas.

This operation sends a strong message to cybercriminals that authorities are committed to combating their illegal activities and bringing them to justice. As cybercrime continues to evolve and pose a significant threat to individuals and businesses alike, collaborative efforts like Serengeti 2.0 are essential in staying one step ahead of these malicious actors.

The recovery of $97.4 million in illicit funds is a significant victory in the fight against cybercrime, and INTERPOL's efforts serve as a beacon of hope for those affected by these crimes. As the threat of cybercrime continues to loom large, it is essential for governments, private sector partners, and individuals to work together to combat this menace and ensure a safer digital landscape for all.