Mass arrests in global crackdown on West African cyber-crime networks

Operation Jackal IV, a major international crackdown on cyber-crime groups, has resulted in the arrest of 58 people across 22 countries and six continents. The operation, which took place between November 2025 and June 2026, was coordinated

The operation aimed to disrupt the tactics used Victims as young as 14 were affected For related coverage, explore our detailed analysis on Technology and Digital Systems.

Targeting Sextortion and Money Laundering

Interpol also investigated how these groups laundered money and conducted financial fraud, including cryptocurrency and email compromise scams. The scams often targeted 'retirees in English-speaking countries'.

During the operation, Interpol provided support and specialised training for money-laundering investigations with the participating countries. The agency also helped with cross-border co-ordination and intelligence sharing.

The operation resulted in arrests in Argentina, Italy, Romania, and South Africa. In South Africa, seven sites linked to a syndicate involved in romance and investment scams were raided, with 39 arrests made and $2.67m (£1.96m) seized.

Cross-Border Co-ordination

Operation Jackal IV is one of multiple 'Jackal' law enforcement personnel operations that have taken place since 2022. The operation highlights the power of international co-operation in combating online threats.

Notorious Black Axe group, which is involved in trafficking, prostitution, and killing operations around the world, was also targeted during the operation.

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The success of Operation Jackal IV demonstrates the importance of global cooperation in tackling cyber-crime. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that law enforcement agencies work together to stay ahead of these groups.

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Go to BBCAfrica.com , external for more news from the African continent.

Interpol says Operation Jackal IV demonstrates the power of international co-operation Fifty-eight people linked to organised West African cyber-crime groups have been arrested in an operation across 22 countries and six continents.

Dubbed "Operation Jackal IV", it was co-ordinated It also identified 263 suspects.

The operation also allowed analysis of emerging trends such as how these groups use sextortion to target minors, with victims as young as 14.

The ultra-violent cult that became a global mafia Operation Jackal IV - which took place between November 2025 and June 2026 - investigated how the groups laundered money and how financial fraud cyber crimes, such as cryptocurrency and email compromise fraud, were conducted.