Interpol arrest 300 in organised global sting operations

International law enforcement agency, Interpol (International Police), have arrested 300 individuals, confiscated $3 million and froze 720 bank accounts in a global operation aimed at disrupting organised crime networks originating from West Africa across 5 continents on July 16, 2024.

Interpol, with 196 member countries and celebrating its centennial last year, facilitates global police cooperation in combating various crimes.

These crimes include counterterrorism, financial crime, child exploitation, cybercrime and organised crime. 

It enables national police forces to communicate effectively and track suspects and criminals across borders.

In a news report by Africanews, a statement released by Interpol said that Operation Jackal III took place from April 10 to July 3 across 21 countries.

The organisation’s objective was to combat online financial fraud and the West African group responsible for it.

In addition, it explained that Black Axe, which is among the targeted groups, is known as one of the leading criminal networks in West Africa. 

The agency added that Black Axe engages in cyber fraud, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. 

It was also implicated in violent crimes, both domestically in Africa and internationally.

According to the report, Black Axe utilized cash couriers to establish bank accounts globally.

Consequently, this has led to investigations spanning over 40 countries for possible illicit financial activities.

After a five-year investigation in Argentina, the authorities took action against Black Axe, confiscating $1.2 million in high-quality counterfeit banknotes.

They further apprehended 72 suspects and froze about 100 bank accounts.

The Director of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre, Mr. Isaac Oginni, stated:

“The volume of financial fraud stemming from West Africa is alarming and increasing.

“This operation’s results underscore the critical need for international law enforcement collaboration to combat these extensive criminal networks.”

Among those under suspicion are people originating from Argentina, Colombia, Nigeria, and Venezuela.

Interpol ‘s Operation Jackal III

Interpol’s Operation Jackal III, conducted from April 10 to July 3 across 21 countries, aims to combat online financial fraud by West African criminal groups.

This multinational effort aims to break up networks involved in cyber fraud, money laundering, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.

The operation uses Interpol’s broad network and expertise to coordinate harmonized actions across participating countries.

Law enforcement agencies collaborate to investigate and disrupt criminal organizations, aiming to arrest key figures and seize assets used in illegal activities.

Operation Jackal III highlights Interpol’s important role in global law enforcement, promoting cooperation among member countries to fight difficult trans-national crime.

The institution focuses on fighting financial fraud and criminal networks to safeguard global financial systems.

It also strives to protect individuals and businesses from cyber crime and illicit financial activities.

The division’s comprehensive approach includes enforcement actions.

Furthermore, it focuses on capacity-building efforts, such as training in digital forensics and financial investigations.

These efforts aim to enhance member countries’ capabilities in combating cyber-enabled crimes.

Efforts such as Jackal III showcases Interpol’s commitment to promoting international police cooperation.

Additionally, it ensures global security in an intertwined world.

The Pursuit of Black Axe

Black Axe, recognized as a prominent West African criminal network, has become a priority for Interpol in combating transnational crime.

Operating globally, Black Axe is infamous for cyber fraud, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and violent crimes in Africa and worldwide.

The organisation has taken the lead in coordinating international efforts to dismantle the operations of Black Axe and capture its members.

These efforts have included coordinated investigations across numerous countries, aimed at targeting the network’s financial infrastructure.

Simultaneous arrests have also been conducted to disrupt its criminal activities.

The pursuit of Black Axe underscores its commitment to tackling organized crime on a global scale.

It aims to disrupt the network’s illicit operations and bring its leaders and operatives to justice.

It also utilizes its widespread network of member countries and specialized expertise to achieve these goals.

The strategy of Interpol against Black Axe extends beyond enforcement actions.

It involves initiatives to strengthen the capabilities of member countries in tackling organized crime and cyber-enabled fraud.

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