INTERPOL blocks 720 bank accounts linked to online financial frauds in West Africa through ‘Operation Jackal III’, dismantling major criminal networks and seizing assets worth USD 3 million.
INTERPOL has successfully blocked over 720 bank accounts connected to online financial frauds across West Africa. This achievement is part of ‘Operation Jackal III’, a comprehensive global sting operation that took place from April 10 to July 3, spanning 21 countries across five continents. The operation specifically targeted online financial fraud and the West African syndicates orchestrating these crimes.
The extensive initiative resulted in hundreds of arrests, the seizure of assets worth USD 3 million, and the dismantling of several criminal networks worldwide. One significant breakthrough was achieved with the assistance of the Portuguese criminal police, who collaborated with INTERPOL to dismantle a Nigerian network involved in recruiting money mules and laundering funds from online fraud victims across Europe. During this operation, more than 25 syndicate members were identified.
The investigation revealed detailed data from seized computers and phones, showcasing substantial transfers to Nigerian bank accounts, cryptocurrency transactions, and sophisticated money laundering operations. These findings highlight the advanced techniques used by these criminal networks to perpetrate fraud.
Isaac Oginni, Director of INTERPOL’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre (IFCACC), emphasized the alarming rise of financial fraud originating from West Africa. He highlighted the critical need for international law enforcement collaboration to effectively combat these extensive and sophisticated criminal networks. Oginni stressed that the operation’s success underscores the importance of joint efforts in tackling global financial crime and protecting victims from these pervasive fraud schemes.
The crackdown on these fraudulent activities is a significant step towards enhancing global financial security and preventing the proliferation of online financial crimes. INTERPOL’s commitment to disrupting these networks demonstrates the power of coordinated international efforts in maintaining the integrity of financial systems worldwide.
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