The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced the arrest of nine suspects in Nigeria and the seizure of 53 electronic devices during its Operation Blackout.
The operation targeted international cybercriminal networks accused of defrauding Americans.
FBI Director Kash Patel disclosed the development, stating that the operation also led to the identification of $11 million in potentially freezable funds across multiple countries.
Patel said the operation targeted scam centres that exploit victims, steal their life savings and operate across international borders in an attempt to evade law enforcement.
“These scam centres exploit innocent victims, steal life savings, and operate across international borders believing they are beyond the reach of law enforcement,” he said.
He added that the operation demonstrated the commitment of law enforcement agencies to pursuing cybercriminals regardless of their location.
Patel commended Nigerian law enforcement agencies and their partners in London for their cooperation in the operation.
He also issued a warning to cybercriminals targeting Americans from overseas, declaring that they would be brought to justice.
“JUSTICE WILL FIND YOU,” the FBI director said.
Operation Blackout emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in tackling cybercrime, particularly schemes that cross national borders and target victims in the United States.
