Group-IB, a cybersecurity technology company, announced its contribution to INTERPOL’s “Operation Serengeti 2.0” between June and August 2025. The multinational operation resulted in the arrest of 1,209 cybercriminals across Africa. Nearly 88,000 victims were targeted globally, and authorities recovered US$97.4 million.

Investigators from 18 African countries and the United Kingdom also dismantled 11,432 malicious infrastructures. These networks were used to facilitate ransomware attacks, online scams, and business email compromise (BEC), Group-IB reported. These threats were highlighted in the recent INTERPOL Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report.

As an INTERPOL Gateway Partner, Group-IB provided intelligence on a cryptocurrency investment scam and related malicious infrastructure. The company also shared findings on BEC campaigns and broader infrastructure threats across the African region.

In preparation for the operation, Group-IB conducted workshops on open-source intelligence tools and dark web investigations. These sessions enhanced the skills of investigators, contributing to the success of the operation.

Authorities in Angola dismantled 25 cryptocurrency mining centres. The crackdown involved 60 Chinese nationals illegally validating blockchain transactions. Officials confiscated 45 illicit power stations and cryptocurrency-mining equipment worth over US$37 million. Angola’s government plans to use the seized assets to support power distribution in vulnerable areas.

Zambian authorities reported dismantling a large-scale online investment fraud. The scheme affected 65,000 victims and caused losses of an estimated US$300 million. Scammers persuaded victims to invest in cryptocurrency through advertising campaigns. Fifteen individuals were arrested, and investigators seized domains, bank accounts, and mobile numbers. Investigations continue to track overseas collaborators.

Authorities in Zambia also disrupted a suspected human trafficking network. They confiscated 372 forged passports from seven countries. Meanwhile, officers in Côte d’Ivoire dismantled a transnational inheritance scam originating in Germany. The primary suspect was arrested, and seized assets included electronics, jewellery, cash, vehicles, and documents. The scam caused losses of about US$1.6 million.

Valdecy Urquiza, Secretary General of INTERPOL, revealed that each operation builds on previous efforts, increasing cooperation and sharing information. Dmitry Volkov, CEO of Group-IB, said the operation demonstrates the global impact of cybercrime and the importance of threat intelligence.

Group-IB emphasized its ongoing role in supporting INTERPOL and law enforcement agencies. The company reported that its tools and knowledge sharing help safeguard communities and businesses worldwide.

• Operation Serengeti 2.0 is a follow-up to the 2024 INTERPOL-AFRIPOL-led operation.
• Group-IB previously helped dismantle more than 134,000 malicious networks and arrested 1,006 suspects.

This operation highlights Group-IB’s expertise in cybersecurity and its commitment to fighting global digital crime.

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