In collaboration with INTERPOL, Kenyan authorities have arrested 24 people linked to a sophisticated online credit card fraud scheme, resulting in losses totaling $8.6 million (over Ksh.1.1 billion).

This operation was part of Operation Serengeti, a continent-wide initiative targeting cybercriminals involved in ransomware, online scams, and digital extortion.

PHOTO | COURTESY Hacker

Operation Serengeti, conducted between September 2 and October 31, 2024, spanned 19 African countries and was spearheaded by INTERPOL and AFRIPOL.

In Kenya, the scammers exploited vulnerabilities in banking security protocols, using altered SWIFT codes to transfer stolen funds to companies in the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, China, and digital asset platforms.

SWIFT codes, vital for interbank transactions, were manipulated to facilitate these illicit activities.

The operation led to the arrest of 1,006 suspects across the continent and the dismantling of 134,089 malicious networks that perpetuate cybercrime. Additionally, over 35,000 victims were identified, and global losses linked to these crimes amount to $193 million (over Ksh.25 billion).

INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza praised the operation’s success, emphasizing its impact on future crime prevention.

PHOTO | COURTESY Hacker 

"Operation Serengeti highlights the power of collaboration, saving countless potential victims from significant personal and financial losses," he remarked. "This is just the beginning, and we remain committed to dismantling these criminal networks worldwide."

AFRIPOL’s Executive Director, Ambassador Jalel Chelba, reaffirmed the organization's dedication to combating cyber threats in Africa.

"Serengeti has greatly enhanced law enforcement capabilities in African Union Member States, leading to critical arrests and deeper insights into cybercrime trends," he stated.