Operation Serengeti 2.0 has quickly become a landmark initiative in the global fight against cybercrime, with over 1,200 criminals arrested across 18 African countries and the United Kingdom. Led by Interpol and involving national authorities from nations like Angola, Zambia, and Nigeria, this massive crackdown targeted a growing web of cryptocurrency scams, illegal crypto mining operations, and cross-border fraud schemes. Here’s how this operation unfolded, why it matters, and what it signals for the future of digital asset security.
Interpol leads the fight against cybercrime
Interpol’s coordination at the heart of Operation Serengeti 2.0 highlights the urgent need for unified global action to tackle digital threats. With cybercrime and cryptocurrency scams costing victims hundreds of millions and impacting tens of thousands, the operation was designed to dismantle sophisticated criminal networks operating across borders. The participation of agencies from 18 African countries and the U.K. demonstrates that collaboration is key to tracing illicit assets and halting transnational criminal activity.
Dismantling fraud schemes and illegal crypto mining
At the core of Operation Serengeti 2.0 lay the disruption of illegal crypto mining and elaborate online fraud schemes. In Angola, authorities uncovered and shut down crypto mining centers run by Chinese nationals, seizing specialized equipment and power stations used to fuel unauthorized operations. Zambia saw the takedown of an investment fraud network, leading to the arrest of 15 suspects and the confiscation of fraudulent digital assets. These victories are a testament to the operation’s comprehensive scope—targeting both high-tech infrastructure and the people behind the scams.
Investigator training and blockchain analytics prove essential
The success of Operation Serengeti 2.0 hinged on advanced investigator training and the use of blockchain analytics. Prior to the crackdown, investigators learned to trace crypto transactions, unravel ransomware flows, and analyze digital wallets. This expertise enabled authorities to seize assets, dismantle human trafficking rings tied to crypto payments, and intercept forged passports used for online criminal activity. The training, supported by funding from the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, set a new standard for law enforcement tackling cybercrime in the digital age.
Cross-border cooperation: The key to disrupting cryptocurrency scams
Cross-border cooperation emerged as a defining feature of Operation Serengeti 2.0. With criminal networks leveraging the borderless nature of cryptocurrencies, coordinated efforts allowed police to not only arrest and prosecute suspects but also trace funds internationally. For example, Nigeria witnessed the deportation of key suspects linked to cyberterrorism and sophisticated internet fraud schemes, made possible only through international intelligence sharing and law enforcement teamwork.
Broader impact: What Operation Serengeti 2.0 means for crypto security
Operation Serengeti 2.0 sets a bold precedent for future law enforcement action against cybercrime. By employing advanced blockchain analytics and encouraging unparalleled collaboration, authorities have shown that the anonymity and complexity of crypto-based crimes can be pierced. The operation’s results—over 1,200 arrests and countless assets reclaimed—send a clear warning to would-be scammers and illegal crypto miners: global law enforcement is more connected and better equipped than ever.
Frequently asked questions about Operation Serengeti 2.0 (FAQ)
What was the aim of Operation Serengeti 2.0?
The primary goal was to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in cybercrime, especially those exploiting cryptocurrencies for scams, fraud, and illegal mining.
Which countries participated in the operation?
Authorities from 18 African countries and the U.K. took part, with major actions in Angola, Zambia, and Nigeria.
How did investigator training contribute to the success of Operation Serengeti 2.0?
Investigators received targeted training in blockchain analytics, crypto tracing, and ransomware analysis, equipping them with the skills needed to identify culprits and recover digital assets.
What assets were seized during the crackdown?
Law enforcement confiscated illegal mining equipment, power stations, forged passports, digital wallets loaded with fraudulent assets, and other crime-related materials.
Why is cross-border cooperation important in fighting cryptocurrency scams?
Since crypto transactions easily cross national boundaries, success depends on international collaboration; sharing intelligence and resources enables police to pursue criminals wherever they operate.
Sources to this article
No direct first-party sources were cited. News and background context were synthesized from ongoing international law enforcement updates, public releases, and statements from Interpol and national authorities as referenced in:
– Interpol. (2025). Public statements on Operation Serengeti 2.0.
– U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. (2025). Funding summaries for international cybercrime initiatives.
– National police agency announcements from Angola, Zambia, and Nigeria (2025).
