What You Need to Know
Between December 2025 and January 2026, Africa witnessed a major crackdown on cross-border cybercrime, resulting in 651 arrests and the seizure of over $4.3 million. Coordinated by Interpol, the operation revealed fraud schemes causing losses of approximately $45 million, primarily affecting vulnerable populations across the continent.
Africa-Press. Between December 2025 and January 2026, Africa witnessed one of the largest security operations against transnational cybercrime, resulting in the arrest of hundreds of suspects and the seizure of millions of dollars. This operation was described as a “decisive” blow to digital fraud networks.
The operation, coordinated by Interpol under the name “Red Card 2.0,” took place from December 8, 2025, to January 30, 2026, involving security agencies from 16 African countries. It led to the arrest of 651 individuals and the confiscation of over $4.3 million, along with the seizure of 2,341 electronic devices and the disruption of 1,442 electronic addresses, domains, and servers.
During the eight weeks of investigations, authorities uncovered fraud schemes that resulted in estimated losses of around $45 million, identifying more than 1,200 victims, most of whom were in Africa.
Types of Targeted Fraud
The operation focused on the most prevalent forms of financial fraud on the continent, including fake investment schemes promising high returns, fraud through mobile money services, and fictitious loans targeting vulnerable groups. Neil Giton, head of the Cybercrime Division at Interpol, emphasized that these organized criminal networks cause significant financial and psychological harm to individuals, businesses, and communities, urging victims to report crimes.
The operation was part of a joint African initiative against cybercrime, supported by the European Union and the Council of Europe, along with partners from the private sector in cybersecurity. Participating countries included Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Chad, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Cybercrime has become a growing concern in Africa, with increasing incidents of online fraud affecting individuals and businesses alike. The rise of digital technology has facilitated new avenues for criminal activities, prompting regional and international cooperation to combat these threats. Recent operations, such as the one led by Interpol, highlight the urgent need for collective action against cybercriminal networks that exploit the vulnerabilities of the digital landscape.
