Police forces from 61 countries have joined forces to dismantle scam networks online through Operation First Light 2024.
The operation, orchestrated by Interpol, resulted in the arrest of 3950 suspects and the identification of 14,643 more.
Authorities succeeded in freezing 6745 bank accounts and seizing assets worth $ 257 million, thereby considerably disrupting transnational organized crime networks involved in phishing, investment fraud, fake online shop sites and romantic and imitation features.
During the operation, the police intercepted around $ 135 million in Fiat -Maluta and $ 2 million in cryptocurrency. Fiat -Valuta, such as the US dollar, euro or yen, is officially issued and regulated by governments. Moreover, more than $ 120 million in assets, including real estate, luxury vehicles and high -quality jewelry, were seized.
In particular, the operation saw considerable performance in different regions. Several suspects were arrested in Hong Kong and in Brazil the federal police grabbed luxury items, including jewelry and electronics. In Namibia, the authorities dismantled an advanced international scam network in the capital, with 88 young people being saved to lead scam and seize 163 computers and 350 mobile phones.
Read more about Interpol operations: how Interpol strengthens regional and worldwide defense against cyber crime
According to a post published by Interpol Today, the general secretariat of the Agency played a crucial role in analyzing data from seized devices and supporting local police efforts in countries such as Namibia.
The operation also used Interpol’s Global Rapid Intervention of Payments (I -Grip) mechanism to trace and intercept illegal yields, so that important amounts are successfully restored in various cases.
Dr. Isaac Kehinde Oginni, director of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-corruption Center (IFCACC), emphasized the broader impact of the operation that goes beyond financial statistics.
“The results of this global police operation are more than just figures – they represent lives protected, prevent crimes and a healthier global economy worldwide,” he said.
First Light Operations have reportedly coordinated by Interpol since 2014 to improve international cooperation in tackling social engineering and telecom fraud.
The last operation was funded by the Chinese Ministry of Public Security, in which the final meeting in Tianjin was organized. The meeting brought together participating countries to analyze results, share intelligence and to plan future activities.
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