Major Sting Operation Uncovers Cyber Crime Networks Across Africa

Sat Oct 11 2025 06:30:40 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A collaborative effort across 14 African countries results in the arrest of 260 individuals linked to sextortion and romance scams, unveiling a significant cybercrime wave fueled by social media.

Interpol's extensive operation spanning several African nations has led to the arrest of 260 alleged cyber scammers involved in sextortion and romance fraud. Victims, estimated to number over 1,400, have reportedly lost nearly $2.8 million in total. Authorities have identified various illegal practices and seized evidence, including devices and documents.

Major Sting Operation Uncovers Cyber Crime Networks Across Africa

16 minutes ago

The operation targeted criminal networks using social media to scam people.

A sting operation by Interpol across 14 African countries has led to the arrest of 260 suspects linked to sextortion and romance scams. This initiative, funded by the UK, was aimed at dismantling criminal networks exploiting social media to defraud victims.

In total, the operation uncovered more than 1,400 victims primarily from Ghana, Kenya, and Angola, with estimated losses reaching $2.8 million. Interpol emphasized its commitment to eliminating these online threats.

The crackdown, conducted from July to August, enabled police to track down over 80 criminal infrastructures and seize numerous devices, forgery documents, and fund transfer records.

The implications of this operation are significant, as cybercrime units across Africa have reported an alarming increase in scams, highlighting the urgent need to bolster online safety measures.