Interpol Busts West African Cybercrime Mafia, Black Axe

The International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) has made a significant breakthrough in combating cybercrime by arresting over 300 individuals linked to the notorious West African criminal network, Black Axe. The arrests were part of "Operation Jackal III," conducted in 21 countries between April and July 2024, targeting cyber-enabled financial fraud and other serious crimes. Interpol seized $3 million in illegal assets and froze more than 700 bank accounts during the operation.

Interpol officials highlighted the group's technological sophistication, particularly in using financial technology and cryptocurrency to facilitate global criminal activities. Black Axe, a secretive network known for its involvement in trafficking, prostitution, and murder, primarily generates revenue through cybercrime. Many members are university-educated and recruited during their academic years. Interpol has launched the Global Rapid Intervention of Payments system to freeze bank accounts globally with unprecedented speed, which recently thwarted a $40 million scam targeting a Singaporean business. However, experts like Dr. Oluwole Ojewale from the Institute for Security Studies argue that government laxity and political manipulation have allowed groups like Black Axe to thrive. He stresses the importance of prevention over reactive operations.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has pledged to enhance support for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to combat digital crimes. The Nigerian Senate has also expressed concern over the country's annual loss of $500 million to cybercrime, warning that underfunding the national cybersecurity program could undermine the digital economy's gains. The origins of Interpol's Jackal operations trace back to Ireland, where authorities identified and arrested several Black Axe members in 2020, exposing a broader criminal network. Irish law enforcement officials have emphasized the seriousness of cybercrime, with millions stolen online in recent years. Credit: BBC