Interpol, the global policing network with 196 member countries, coordinated a large-scale cybercrime operation in Africa.
Authorities arrested 260 suspects linked to online romance fraud, sextortion, and extortion schemes during July and August.
Investigators identified perpetrators who created fake online relationships to trick victims into sending money or sharing compromising images.
The scams affected over 1,400 individuals, who collectively lost nearly $2.8 million (€2.4 million), according to Interpol.
Cyril Gout, acting executive director of police services at Interpol, noted that African cybercrime units reported sharp increases in digital-enabled scams.
Criminals Exploit Technology to Defraud and Blackmail
Interpol revealed that perpetrators used social media, dating apps, and messaging platforms to manipulate victims.
In Ghana, authorities detained 68 suspects for using false identities to charge fake shipment fees and secretly record explicit videos.
Senegalese police arrested 22 suspects who pretended to be celebrities online, scamming over 100 victims out of roughly $34,000 (€29,135).
Côte d’Ivoire authorities captured 24 individuals accused of creating fake accounts to coerce victims with intimate images.
Interpol highlighted that these crimes caused not only financial losses but also severe psychological stress for the victims.
Gout warned that expanding online platforms have created fertile ground for organized criminal networks to exploit vulnerable individuals.
Strengthening Global Coordination Against Cybercrime
Headquartered in Lyon, Interpol facilitates communication between national police forces to track criminals across borders.
The organisation targets terrorism, financial crimes, cybercrime, child exploitation, and organised criminal networks worldwide.
Interpol officials emphasized the importance of collaboration, citing the challenges posed by growing cybercrime and child abuse cases.
Digital crimes now involve cross-border operations, requiring synchronized investigations across multiple jurisdictions.
The agency noted that divisions among member countries complicate coordinated efforts, but international cooperation remains essential.
Interpol plans continued operations to dismantle criminal networks, increase public awareness, and provide training for national cyber units.
Officials stressed that law enforcement must adapt constantly as criminals exploit evolving online tools and platforms.
Interpol’s efforts underscore the need for stronger legal frameworks, regional cooperation, and rapid response capabilities to combat global cybercrime effectively.
