Credit Card Fraud: Interpol Arrests 24 Kenyans in $8.6 Million Fraud Crackdown

Interpol has announced a massive breakthrough in the fight against cybercrime, arresting over 1,000 suspects linked to a web of online credit card fraud. This coordinated operation, dubbed “Operation Serengeti,” involved law enforcement from 19 African nations and dismantled a criminal network that defrauded financial institutions of $8.6 million. 

The fraudsters utilized advanced techniques, including altering banking system security protocols and running fraudulent scripts. Authorities revealed that the stolen funds were swiftly moved via SWIFT transactions to companies in the UAE, Nigeria, and China before being funneled to digital asset platforms in multiple jurisdictions. 

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Kenya’s Role in Uncovering $8.6 Million Fraud 

Kenyan police played a key role in cracking a local case tied to the global fraud scheme. Investigations uncovered losses of $8.6 million targeting Kenyan banks. Officials arrested 24 individuals linked to these crimes, highlighting Kenya’s growing capabilities in tackling cyber threats. 

Kenya’s Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said in a statement that the country is committed to bolstering cybersecurity. He added that joining the Budapest Convention—a global treaty on cybercrime—has provided Kenya with a legal framework to collaborate internationally in combating online fraud. 

Unveiling Africa’s Cybercrime Threats 

Operation Serengeti targeted prominent cybercrimes, including business email compromise (BEC), ransomware, and digital extortion. The African Union police body Afripol, working alongside Interpol, identified over 35,000 victims globally, with losses nearing $193 million. 

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Afripol Executive Director Jalel Chelba noted the rise of AI-driven malware and sophisticated attack techniques, underscoring the need for proactive measures. The operation dismantled over 134,000 malicious networks, with cybercriminals increasingly leveraging advanced tools to target financial systems. 

Private Sector Contributions 

Private sector partners, such as Internet Service Providers, provided crucial support during the operation. They assisted in analyzing data, disrupting criminal networks, and patching vulnerabilities. Their involvement ensured that actions on the ground were intelligence-led, targeting significant actors in the cybercrime landscape. 

Global Efforts in Fighting Online Credit Card Fraud 

Interpol emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing the growing sophistication of cyberattacks. The organization produced 65 Cyber Analytical Reports during the operation to assist member states in neutralizing threats effectively. 

Kenya and other participating countries continue to enhance cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring preparedness against emerging challenges.

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