4 Kenyans Arrested in Sh1.1 Billion Credit Card Fraud Scheme
Nearly 24 Kenyans have been apprehended for their involvement in a massive credit card fraud operation that resulted in losses exceeding $8.6 million (over Sh1.1 billion).
The arrests were part of a broader anti-cybercrime initiative led by INTERPOL in partnership with AFRIPOL. Dubbed Operation Serengeti, the operation took place between September and October 2024, targeting cybercrime networks across 19 African nations. It focused on dismantling schemes involving ransomware, online scams, and digital extortion.
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The continent-wide effort resulted in 1,006 arrests and the disruption of 134,089 malicious networks. Investigators also identified more than 35,000 victims globally, with the schemes collectively causing financial losses estimated at $193 million (approximately Sh25 billion).
Valdecy Urquiza, INTERPOL’s Secretary General, commended the operation’s achievements, stating:
“Operation Serengeti demonstrates the power of collaboration. These arrests alone will save countless future victims from severe personal and financial harm. However, this is just the beginning, and we remain committed to targeting these criminal networks worldwide.”
In Kenya, the investigation revealed that fraudsters exploited vulnerabilities in banking system security protocols to divert funds using SWIFT codes—unique identifiers for bank transactions. The stolen money was funneled into companies based in the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, China, and various digital asset platforms.
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Ambassador Jalel Chelba, AFRIPOL’s Executive Director, underscored the operation’s importance:
“Through Serengeti, AFRIPOL has significantly enhanced law enforcement support for African Union Member States, enabling crucial arrests and providing deeper insights into cybercrime trends.”
While the arrests mark a significant step in combating digital fraud, INTERPOL and AFRIPOL emphasized that more efforts are needed. Strengthening international collaboration and investing in advanced technology will be essential in preventing future cyberattacks.
