Madagascar authorities dismantle scam centers linked to Southeast Asian syndicates

Authorities in Madagascar have conducted a series of raids against online scam centers, uncovering links to organized criminal groups that previously operated in Cambodia. The syndicates, primarily run by Chinese nationals, reportedly relocated their operations to Madagascar following increased enforcement in Southeast Asia.

During thirteen raids conducted in August and September in cooperation with the United States Department of Justice, officials seized approximately $52 million in cryptocurrency and more than 3,200 electronic devices. The criminal activities included romance scams, fraudulent investment schemes, and cryptocurrency fraud. To date, 148 Chinese suspects have been extradited to Beijing.

The investigation revealed a human trafficking component where individuals from African nations, including Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, were lured via social media with promises of commercial employment. Upon arrival in Madagascar, their passports were allegedly confiscated, and they were forced to work as cyber scammers targeting victims in Western nations such as the United States and Canada.