Interpol strikes global fraud networks, 5,800 arrested and $300 million in assets seized

An international operation led by Interpol has ended with the arrest of nearly 5,800 people and the seizure of around $300 million in illicit assets, as part of a crackdown on online fraud networks.

Called “First Light 2026,” the operation was carried out from January to April and involved law enforcement authorities from 97 countries. It targeted criminal groups that use psychological manipulation to deceive victims and take their money or confidential data.

According to Interpol, around 142,000 victims affected by various fraud schemes were identified during the operation, including sexual extortion, investment scams, identity theft, online romance scams and business email compromise.

The international criminal police organization stressed that these forms of fraud have become a major global threat to individuals, businesses and public institutions.

During the operation, various criminal networks were dismantled in several countries. In Eswatini, authorities detained 82 people and dismantled a group involved in illegal online gambling and money laundering through identity theft schemes.

In another case, fraudsters set up a fake version of a Brazilian police station and, posing as police officers during video calls, convinced victims to send money for so-called “protection” from a fabricated crime.

Investigations also uncovered fraud cases targeting international companies and individuals. In Singapore, a trading company was targeted by people posing as fake suppliers, while in Macau, individuals posing as public officials were arrested after attempting to obtain around $372,000 from a victim.

Interpol warned that the rise in scams based on psychological manipulation makes broader international cooperation essential to curb criminal networks operating across borders.