Results of Interpol’s Operation “Jackal” in West Africa
During Interpol’s Operation Jackal, several West African countries collaborated to combat financial crime in the region. This operation led to the seizure of nearly 2.2 million US dollars and the identification of more than 1,100 suspects.
Operation “Jackal” focused on financial crimes, such as email scams, bank fraud and money laundering. It has mobilized countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria and South Africa, and has been hailed as an example of international cooperation to fight financial crime.
Cybercrime is a real threat in West Africa, with a significant increase in email scams and other forms of online scams. According to Interpol, almost 60% of financial scams related to professional emails in the world are in Africa.
Losses caused by cybercrime have a huge economic impact, reducing Africa’s GDP by 10%. Since 2021, the region has lost approximately US$4 billion due to these criminal activities.
Interpol’s Operation “Jackal” marks an important step in the fight against financial crime in West Africa. By establishing regional cooperation and identifying suspects, authorities hope to deter criminals and reduce the impact of cybercrime on the region’s economy.
It is essential to continue to support these efforts, in particular by strengthening the capacities of local authorities and raising awareness of the risks of cybercrime. This fight requires continued collaboration between countries, law enforcement and international organizations to ensure financial security in the region