Nigeria leads 306 cybercrime arrests in Interpol operation across Africa

Interpol's Operation Red Card led to the arrest of 306 suspects across seven African countries, primarily targeting cyber-enabled scams related to mobile banking and investment fraud. Nigeria accounted for the highest number of arrests, with 130 individuals detained, including 113 foreign nationals, involved in large-scale online fraud operations. The crackdown, which occurred from November 2024 to February 2025, unveiled over 1,500 victims and resulted in the seizure of 1,842 devices and substantial financial assets. The operation highlighted the recruitment of young Nigerians into criminal networks, with many suspects allegedly coerced into participating in scams. Additionally, authorities in other participating countries like Zambia and Rwanda made significant arrests related to cybercrime. This multinational effort underscores the importance of international collaboration in combatting cybercriminal activities across borders.