An international operation targeting organized crime groups operating out of West Africa has resulted in 58 arrests and the identification of 263 suspects across 22 countries, according to INTERPOL.
Operation Jackal IV, conducted from November 2025 through June 2026, targeted criminal networks involved in online scams, money laundering and other financial crimes. Investigators focused on groups linked to romance scams, cryptocurrency and investment fraud, business email scams and sextortion.
The operation involved police and law enforcement agencies across six continents. INTERPOL said criminal organizations, including Black Axe and other West African groups, have expanded their activities internationally and increasingly rely on sophisticated technology and networks to move and hide criminal proceeds.
In South Africa, authorities arrested 39 people following raids on seven locations in Johannesburg connected to alleged romance and investment scams. Police seized approximately $2.67 million and blocked 257 bank accounts.
Romanian authorities arrested 11 people accused of participating in an investment scam that allegedly stole and laundered about 143 million euros worldwide.
INTERPOL said the operation also uncovered cases involving sextortion, including crimes targeting minors.
The agency said the results highlight the growing international reach of organized crime and the importance of cooperation among law enforcement agencies to identify suspects, recover criminal proceeds and disrupt criminal networks.
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