The arrests were part of a broader operation code-named “Operation Catalyst”, which saw 83 suspects apprehended across six African countries — Nigeria, Angola, Cameroon, Kenya, Namibia, and South Sudan.
According to a statement released by INTERPOL, the two-month operation targeted terrorism financing networks and other illegal activities that sustain extremist organisations across the continent.
The global policing body disclosed that more than 15,000 persons of interest and entities were investigated during the exercise, leading to significant discoveries and financial seizures.
“Of the 83 arrests, 21 were linked to terrorism-related offences, 28 to financial fraud and money laundering, 16 to cyber-enabled scams, and 18 to the illicit use of virtual assets,” the statement said.
INTERPOL further revealed that the operation uncovered over $260 million in both fiat and virtual currencies, while $600,000 was seized as part of the crackdown.
The agency explained that Operation Catalyst was designed to disrupt criminal and terror financing pipelines operating across Africa, strengthen inter-agency cooperation, and ensure improved regional security.
Security analysts have described the operation as a major breakthrough in Africa’s counterterrorism efforts, noting that such collaborations are critical to dismantling transnational criminal networks that threaten peace and stability.
