Muthomi Ireri
In a major international crackdown on West African organized crime, police have arrested 300 individuals, seized $3 million, and frozen 720 bank accounts, according to Interpol. The operation, named Jackal III, took place from April 10 to July 3 across 21 countries and targeted online financial fraud and the criminal syndicates responsible.
Isaac Oginni, director of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre, highlighted the alarming rise in financial fraud originating from West Africa and emphasized the need for global law enforcement cooperation to address these extensive criminal networks.
One key target was the Black Axe group, a major West African criminal network involved in cyber fraud, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and violent crimes worldwide. Black Axe used money mules to open bank accounts globally and is under investigation in over 40 countries for money laundering. The suspects include individuals from Argentina, Colombia, Nigeria, and Venezuela.
In Argentina, a five-year investigation led to a major operation against Black Axe, resulting in the seizure of $1.2 million in counterfeit banknotes, the arrest of 72 people, and the freezing of about 100 bank accounts.
Interpol, celebrating its centennial last year, aids national police forces in communication and tracking suspects across various crime fields. Despite its large scale, Interpol faces challenges from increasing cybercrime and child abuse cases, as well as rising divisions among its member countries. Last year, Interpol had a budget of approximately 176 million euros ($188 million), compared to more than 200 million euros at Europol and around $11 billion at the FBI.
Dj Vnyash
Silverio Omari
