Global investigators conducted a successful operation, known as Haechi III, targeting cyber-enabled crimes and seizing nearly $130 million in money and assets. The operation, which lasted for five months until November 23, focused on various criminal activities such as voice phishing, romance scams, sextortion, investment fraud, and money laundering associated with illegal online gambling.
Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre (IFCACC) supported the operation, leading to the arrest of 975 suspects in 30 countries. Additionally, 1600 cases were resolved, 2800 bank and crypto accounts were blocked, and 95 Interpol notices and alerts were issued. The operation also uncovered new crime trends, including the promotion of investment fraud schemes through encrypted messaging services.
Hyung Se Lee, the head of an Interpol National Central Bureau (NCB) in Seoul, emphasized the importance of cross-border law enforcement collaboration for future success. One notable achievement of the operation was the arrest of Korean fugitives in Greece and Italy who were involved in embezzling €28 million from 2000 victims in their home country.
In another significant bust, NCBs in Austria and India identified a network of online criminals impersonating Interpol officers to deceive victims into transferring $159,000. A call center in India was raided, leading to the seizure of cryptocurrency wallets and other evidence.
Previous operations, Haechi I and Haechi II, also yielded positive results. Haechi I resulted in the seizure of $83 million in criminal funds and the arrest of 585 individuals, while Haechi II led to the arrest of over 1000 suspects and the seizure of nearly $27 million in criminal funds associated with online fraud and money laundering.
The success of Operation Haechi III highlights the importance of coordinated international efforts in combating cyber-enabled crimes. Interpol’s dedication to tackling these criminal activities across borders is crucial in ensuring a safer digital environment for individuals and businesses worldwide.