FBI Director Kash Patel announced the development on Sunday, describing the operation, code-named Operation Blackout, as part of efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating across international borders.
Patel also disclosed that investigators had identified approximately $11 million in funds across multiple countries that could potentially be frozen. The amount was not reported as money already seized.
According to the FBI director, the targeted networks operated scam centres that allegedly deceived victims, stole their savings and used online platforms to carry out fraudulent activities.
He commended Nigerian law enforcement agencies and their international partners for their cooperation in the operation, stressing that authorities would continue pursuing individuals involved in cybercrime, regardless of where they operated.
International Crackdown on Online Fraud
The arrests formed part of a wider international law enforcement campaign targeting online scam networks operating in West Africa.
The United States Department of Justice reported that the broader operation resulted in 28 arrests across Nigeria and Ghana, alongside the seizure of hundreds of electronic devices.
The coordinated effort also led to the removal of more than 3.7 million fraudulent online accounts, pages and groups allegedly connected to scam operations.
Investigators targeted several forms of online fraud, including cryptocurrency investment scams, impersonation schemes and extortion activities designed to deceive victims into transferring money.
Authorities said cooperation among law enforcement agencies and technology companies played an important role in identifying suspects, disrupting fraudulent accounts and gathering evidence.
The operation highlights growing international efforts to tackle cybercrime networks that exploit digital platforms to target victims across national boundaries.
Nigerian law enforcement agencies are expected to continue working with international partners to investigate suspected offenders and strengthen efforts to combat online financial fraud.
