Interpol has coordinated a significant operation in Angola, leading to over 1,200 arrests and the seizure of approximately $100 million as part of efforts to dismantle illegal cryptocurrency mining operations. The crackdown, which was announced on August 22, 2025, revealed that 25 mining centers were illegally operated by 60 Chinese nationals, contributing to the country’s ongoing energy crisis. In addition to seizing mining equipment valued over $37 million, this operation formed part of a larger strategy targeting cybercrime across Africa. As a response to its energy consumption problem, Angola had enacted a mining ban in April 2024, criminalizing these activities and warning residents against participating. The Angolan government aims to redistribute seized assets to assist vulnerable communities. Meanwhile, Zambian authorities reported similar efforts, identifying fraud schemes that cost thousands of victims substantial losses. The ongoing mining crackdowns in various countries reflect rising concerns about energy use and resource management associated with cryptocurrency operations.

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