INTERPOL arrests 1,462 suspected Yahoo Boys across 20 African countries, recovers $105m

The International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) has arrested 1,462 suspected cybercriminals and recovered $105 million in illicit funds during a two-month operation across Africa.

According to Peoples Gazette, the operation, codenamed Serengeti III, ran from June 29 to August 31, 2026, disrupting 10,909 malicious networks.

INTERPOL said authorities in Nigeria arrested suspects linked to phishing, business email compromise and investment fraud involving cryptocurrency transactions.

Investigators also uncovered approximately 2.1 million email addresses and traced over $2.4 million in suspected criminal proceeds.

In Uganda, authorities arrested 365 foreign nationals linked to investment and pension fraud schemes, while Angola dismantled illegal cryptocurrency mining operations.

INTERPOL’s Director of Cybercrime, Neal Jetton, said:

“Operation Serengeti III reinforces a clear message: while cybercrime is increasingly borderless, international cooperation remains one of the most effective tools for disrupting criminal networks, recovering criminal assets and protecting communities from digital harm.”

The operation involved law enforcement agencies from 21 countries, including Nigeria.