Police forces from 61 countries have come together in a united effort to dismantle online scam networks through Operation First Light 2024. This operation, led by Interpol, has led to the arrest of 3950 suspects and the identification of 14,643 more individuals involved in various online scams.
The authorities involved in Operation First Light were able to freeze 6745 bank accounts and seize assets totaling $257 million. This significant disruption has impacted transnational organized crime networks engaged in various fraudulent activities such as phishing, investment fraud, fake online shopping sites, and romance and impersonation scams.
During the course of the operation, law enforcement intercepted around $135 million in fiat currency and $2 million in cryptocurrency. Additionally, over $120 million worth of assets, including real estate, luxury vehicles, and high-value jewelry, were confiscated from the perpetrators of these online scams.
Operation First Light achieved notable successes in different regions around the world. In Hong Kong, multiple suspects were apprehended, while in Brazil, the Federal Police confiscated luxury items like jewelry and electronics. In Namibia, authorities were able to dismantle a sophisticated international scam network in the capital city, rescuing 88 youths who were coerced into participating in scams. Furthermore, 163 computers and 350 mobile phones were seized in Namibia as part of the operation.
Interpol’s General Secretariat headquarters played a crucial role in analyzing data from seized devices and supporting local police efforts in countries like Namibia. The operation also made use of Interpol’s Global Rapid Intervention of Payments (I-GRIP) mechanism to trace and intercept illicit proceeds, leading to the successful recovery of significant sums in various instances.
Dr. Isaac Kehinde Oginni, Director of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre (IFCACC), highlighted the broader impact of Operation First Light beyond just financial metrics. He emphasized that the results of this global police operation represent lives protected, crimes prevented, and a healthier global economy worldwide.
First Light operations have been coordinated by Interpol since 2014 to enhance international cooperation in combating social engineering and telecom fraud. The latest operation was funded by China’s Ministry of Public Security, which hosted a concluding meeting in Tianjin. This meeting brought together participating countries to analyze results, share intelligence, and plan future operations.
The efforts of the police forces involved in Operation First Light 2024 have made significant strides in disrupting online scam networks and protecting individuals from falling victim to fraudulent activities. This collaborative international initiative serves as a testament to the power of global cooperation in combating cybercrime and ensuring a safer digital environment for all.