IN a resounding blow against organised cybercrime, the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) has unveiled the success of ‘Operation Jackal,’ a meticulously coordinated crackdown targeting criminal networks operating in West Africa. The operation, conducted between May 15 and May 29, has led to the apprehension of over 100 individuals across various countries, alongside the seizure or freezing of an impressive €2.15 million ($2.3 million).
The sweeping effort, led by Interpol, witnessed a united front of law enforcement agencies, financial crime units, and cybercrime task forces from 21 nations working in tandem to expose and counter the activities of these criminal groups. The results of ‘Operation Jackal’ are testament to the potency of international collaboration in the fight against cyber-enabled financial crimes.
‘Operation Jackal’ squarely focused on unmasking and dismantling West African crime syndicates, with a primary target being the notorious Black Axe group. Interpol’s statement highlights the operation’s achievements, underscoring the identification of more than 1,100 suspects and the subsequent arrest of 103 individuals. Additionally, the operation led to the freezing of more than 200 bank accounts directly linked to the illicit gains accrued from online financial fraud.
Isaac Kehinde Oginni, Director of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre, emphasised the significance of the operation in curbing cybercrime: ‘It sends a strong message to West African crime networks that no matter where they hide in cyberspace, Interpol will pursue them relentlessly. The illegal activities of Black Axe and similar crime syndicates will remain a priority for Interpol.’
The criminal networks targeted in ‘Operation Jackal’ are notorious for a range of cyber-enabled fraudulent activities, including corporate email scams, romance and inheritance scams, credit card and tax fraud, prepayment schemes, and money laundering. The success of this operation serves as a resounding reminder of the global commitment to combatting cybercrime and safeguarding digital financial ecosystems.
As the operation reverberates throughout criminal networks, the arrests and financial seizures send a clear and unequivocal message that collaborative international efforts stand ready to dismantle the intricate web of cybercrime, ensuring that the illicit proceeds of online financial fraud will not go unchecked.