The men were among 792 suspected internet fraud suspects arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in December 2024.

Prosecutors said the pair recruited Nigerian youths to impersonate foreign nationals online for financial gain and laundered funds through crypto wallets and local bank accounts.

“I humbly pray your lordship to impose the maximum sentence… to serve as a deterrent,” EFCC prosecutor Bilkisu Bala-Buhari told the court.

In his ruling, Justice Osiagor sentenced each man to a cumulative 46 years, saying the punishment reflected the seriousness of the offences.

Authorities also ordered the forfeiture of assets recovered during the investigation, including hundreds of phones, computers, and other equipment allegedly used in the fraud operation.

In a statement released on Monday, December 22, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs confirmed the successful return of the individuals.

"A total of 119 Kenyans have been successfully repatriated following recent raids by Myanmar authorities and rebel groups, with efforts ongoing to secure the return of the remaining Kenyans amid complex regional dynamics," the department said.

The ministry noted that more than 200 other Kenyans remain stranded in the region. "Over 200 Kenyans were left behind and sought refuge in military shelters in Myawaddy and Shwe Kokko, while another group of over 100 Kenyans crossed into Thailand," the statement read.

The September 2025 raids reportedly led to arrests, seizures, bombings, and demolitions of the illegal camps, triggering violent confrontations between Myanmar government forces and rebel factions. As a result, many of the criminal operators fled, abandoning hundreds of foreign workers.

According to the Kenyan government, it responded promptly upon receiving an initial list of 126 affected citizens. It activated several measures through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok. The government also facilitated transportation and airport arrangements for the returnees.

Currently, 198 Kenyans are still in the region. This includes 66 individuals at Thailand’s Immigration Detention Centre, 129 in shelters inside Myanmar, and three in a Catholic safe house in Cambodia, the government disclosed.

Southeast Asia has increasingly become a hotbed for online scam networks estimated to generate billions of dollars. 

British journalist David Whitehouse, who has investigated cybercrime in the region, expressed concern about trafficking operations targeting African youth. “African youth, particularly English-speaking job seekers, are being increasingly targeted by traffickers linked to scam compounds,” Whitehouse told Global South World .

A report by Amnesty International, released in June and titled “I Was Someone Else’s Property” , documented 53 scamming compounds in Cambodia. It featured testimonies from 58 survivors of eight different nationalities, including nine children.

“Survivors of these scamming compounds describe being trapped in a living nightmare – enlisted in criminal enterprises that are operating with the apparent consent of the Cambodian government,” Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnes Callamard said .

“Jobseekers from Asia and beyond are lured by the promise of well-paid work into hellish labour camps run by well-organised gangs, where they are forced to scam under the very real threat of violence.”

Fake online stores offering heavily discounted products are one of the most common traps. These sites often look legitimate, complete with professional layouts and countdown sales, but disappear once payments are made. Shoppers may only realise they have been scammed when goods never arrive, or their bank accounts are compromised. 

In South Africa, Mongezi Mpahlwa, a partner at law firm Cox Yeats, says the country is already seeing a sharp rise in cyberattacks. South Africa recorded more than 2,300 formally reported data breaches between April 2024 and March 2025, averaging about 200 incidents a month. That number has since climbed, with nearly 2,000 breaches reported from April 2025 to date, close to 300 cases every month.

“These attackers know people are distracted, shopping quickly and sharing payment details more often,” Mpahlwa said. “That makes the festive season a perfect hunting ground,” the Citizen quotes.

Government departments, hospitals, banks, retailers and telecoms companies have all been hit by ransomware attacks, data theft and extortion schemes. In some cases, cybercriminals have stolen massive volumes of sensitive information or disrupted essential services.

The average data breach now costs South African businesses about $2.6 million, while consumers lost more than $53 million in 2023 alone to digital banking and mobile app fraud . Industry figures show total cyber-related losses can reach $175 million a year, with online banking fraud and associated losses rising steeply.

Mpahlwa recommended verifying emails and messages before clicking links, shopping only on trusted websites, avoiding public Wi-Fi for payments, and reporting suspicious activity immediately.

The Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the measures are intended to ensure that criminal laws remain “effective, fair and responsive” as fraud becomes one of Singapore’s most significant public safety threats.

People who knowingly allow their bank accounts or personal details to be used to launder scam proceeds may also face caning of up to 12 strokes, alongside jail terms and fines. Judges will also have the discretion to impose caning for other forms of fraud.

Scams now account for about 60% of all reported crime in Singapore, according to government figures. Between 2020 and the first half of 2025, nearly 190,000 scam cases were reported, with losses estimated at 3.7 billion Singapore dollars (about US$2.8 billion).

Officials say common scams include phishing, fake job offers, online shopping fraud, investment schemes and impersonation scams.

Judicial caning , a form of corporal punishment carried out with a rattan cane, is already used in Singapore for serious crimes such as robbery and sexual offences. It applies to male offenders under the age of 50 and is imposed in addition to prison sentences.

His portfolio included high-end hotels, ambitious property developments, and a collection of London estates reportedly worth over $130 million. To the public, Chen was a symbol of modern Asian entrepreneurship and a man who built billions through luxury and innovation.

But that narrative has collapsed.

In October 2025, the United States and the United Kingdom jointly launched one of the largest cybercrime crackdowns in history, accusing Chen and his associates of running a transnational criminal network that profited from human trafficking, online scams, and crypto fraud.

More than 146 individuals and companies were sanctioned, and assets worth billions, including real estate and digital currencies , were frozen. Investigators traced the flow of money from fake job ads, romance scams, and crypto schemes back to Chen’s network in Cambodia and beyond.

Authorities allege that behind the façade of luxury developments and high-finance operations lies a vast web of “scam compounds” across Southeast Asia. Trafficked workers from across the region were forced to run online fraud under threats of violence, generating billions of dollars in illicit profits.

The operation revealed how terrorism financing networks often overlap with other criminal enterprises, including money laundering, cyber fraud, kidnapping for ransom, Ponzi schemes, and the misuse of cryptocurrencies. Of those arrested, 21 were linked to terrorism, 28 to financial fraud and money laundering, 16 to cyber-enabled scams, and 18 to the illicit use of virtual assets.

Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza said the joint initiative marks a turning point in counter-terrorism collaboration on the continent. “This is the first time financial crime, cybercrime, and counter-terrorism units from multiple African countries have joined forces to target terrorism financing,” he said.

Afripol Executive Director Ambassador Jalel Chelba hailed the cooperation between agencies, calling it a model for regional security. “Operation Catalyst illustrates how coordinated action between member states, facilitated by AFRIPOL and INTERPOL, can effectively address complex and evolving threats,” he said.

The operation was further supported by private-sector intelligence from Binance, Moody’s, and Uppsala Security.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted 59 foreign nationals, who are citizens of China and Malaysia, for their roles in a major cybercrime syndicate uncovered in November 2024. The group was part of 130 suspects arrested during a police raid in Jahi, Abuja, involving large-scale internet fraud and sophisticated hacking schemes, the Punch reports. Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin said the convictions bring the total number of convicted individuals in the case to 85. “This is a milestone in our efforts to combat cybercrime and safeguard national security,” he said, noting that 21 were sentenced in August and five in September. The case underscores Nigeria’s intensifying crackdown on transnational cybercrime. Student leader warns fraud is damaging Nigeria’s identity

Fraud, cyberattacks threaten Nigeria’s identity

Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Federal Capital Territory (NANS-FCT), ThankGod Chimenem, has urged Nigerian youth to shun cybercrime and online fraud, warning that such acts threaten the nation’s global reputation. Speaking at a cybersecurity summit at the University of Abuja, he called on students to become “protectors and innovators” of Nigeria’s digital future. “In an age where technology powers every aspect of our lives, our ability to innovate and secure our digital systems has become a matter of national importance,” he is quoted by the Punch . He warned that cyberattacks, fake news, and fraud could undermine Nigeria’s rise as a leading digital economy.

Police dismantle interstate armed robbery gang

The Lagos State Police Command has smashed a violent interstate robbery syndicate operating across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Edo States. Four suspects, Taiwo Alabi, Ogedengbe Lewis, Ighodalo Enato Francis, and Osaro Eghe Abiodun, were arrested, including an Uber driver and a church priest. Police recovered weapons, ammunition, a pump-action rifle, an English pistol, and charms, The Nation Online reports. The driver admitted to ferrying the gang for ₦500,000 (approximately US$400) in one night, knowing they carried firearms. Their arrest followed a coordinated operation against rising car theft and highway robberies.

UN delegation to visit Nigeria on IDP progress

A high-level UN delegation will visit Nigeria from October 20 to 22 to assess progress in addressing the country’s 3.5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs). Led by Ugochi Daniels (IOM), Raouf Mazou (UNHCR) and Shoko Noda (UNDP), the mission will engage with government officials and humanitarian agencies. Despite ongoing efforts, 7.8 million people in northern Nigeria still require aid due to insurgency, banditry, and climate displacement. The visit aims to spotlight Nigeria’s resettlement efforts and lingering humanitarian gaps.

1.6 million children to receive measles-rubella vaccines

The government of Taraba State has launched a mass immunisation campaign targeting 1.6 million children against measles, rubella, HPV, and polio. First Lady Angyin Agbu Kefas, speaking in Jalingo, urged parents to ensure full participation. “Let us work hand in hand to ensure that no child is left behind,” she said, assuring that vaccines are safe and essential. The campaign is part of a wider national strategy to prevent a resurgence of preventable childhood diseases.

Prosecutors said the group was arrested in September 2025 after raids on buildings in Tujereng and Batokunku, where police seized 242 mobile phones, 72 desktop computers, 54 laptops, seven routers, a flat-screen TV, two Starlink internet systems, and other accessories. The equipment was allegedly used to generate fake data on social media platforms to commit cyber fraud.

All 60 defendants pleaded guilty after the charges were read in English and translated into Chinese. Prosecutors described the group as a sophisticated cybercrime syndicate, accusing them of running fraud schemes through WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, and cryptocurrency platforms such as Coinbase and Crypto.com, using VPNs to hide their locations. Investigators said the syndicate had invested heavily in technology, logistics, and property to sustain a large-scale cyber fraud network in The Gambia.

The court also ruled that all 60 nationals are to be deported to China within 10 days of completing their sentences or paying the fines. Until then, they will remain confined to one location under the supervision of the Gambia Immigration Department, which has been tasked with overseeing and facilitating their removal by air, land, or sea.

Oil made Gaddafi’s Libya and it will build - or ruin - its successor

As rival governments vie for control of Libya’s oil, the resource has become both a lifeline and a weapon. Oil will ultimately decide the country’s future—whether through unity fostered by revenue-sharing, division as regions claim resources independently, or a continued status quo where factions and their backers fight for dominance. Read more here .

Nigeria kills at least 35 Islamic fighters near Cameroon border, air force says

Nigeria’s air force said it killed at least 35 Islamist fighters in strikes near the Cameroon border on Saturday, after intelligence revealed plans to attack ground troops. The operation, which hit four assembly points, is part of an intensified northeast campaign that has already claimed 592 militia members in eight months—surpassing gains made in 2024. Read more here .

What you need to know about Interpol’s $97m cybercrime bust across 18 African countries

In one of Africa’s biggest cybercrime crackdowns, authorities in 18 countries—backed by Interpol and the UK—arrested 1,209 suspects, identified 88,000 victims, and recovered $97.4 million. The three-month “Serengeti 2.0” operation also dismantled over 11,000 malicious infrastructures. Read more here .

Asia

Taiwan’s nuclear future hinges on voter anxiety over health and safety

Health has become the key issue for Taiwanese voters ahead of the August 23 referendum on restarting the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant, with concerns focused less on energy needs than on the risks to public well-being, journalist Julien Oeuillet told Global South World. Read more here .

Turkish first lady urges Melania Trump to speak out on Gaza

Turkish First Lady Emine Erdogan urged Melania Trump to press Israel’s prime minister on the plight of children in Gaza, citing Trump’s recent letter to Vladimir Putin about children in Ukraine and Russia, Ankara said Saturday, August 23. Read more here .

Iran forces kill six militants, IRNA reports, Israel link seen

Iranian forces killed six militants and arrested two in the southeast on Saturday, a day after rebels killed five police officers. IRNA said the group was linked to Israel and possibly trained by Mossad; most of the militants were foreign. Read more here .

Ecuador homicides increase 40% through July, over 5,000 killed

Ecuador recorded 5,268 homicides in the first seven months of this year—a 40% jump from 2024 and the country’s deadliest seven-month period in a decade, the interior ministry said. Most victims were aged 25–34 and killed with firearms. Read more here .

Bolsonaro's defence says drafted asylum request is not evidence of flight risk

Lawyers for former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro told the Supreme Court a draft asylum request to Argentina found on his phone was from last year and doesn’t prove flight risk, noting he never fled. Read more here .

At least 18 die in Colombia in two attacks attributed to FARC dissidents

At least 18 people were killed and over 40 were injured on Thursday, August 21, in two attacks in Colombia blamed on FARC dissidents. In Cali, a car bomb near an air force base left six dead and 71 wounded, officials said. Read more here .

Here’s a breakdown of actions taken:

Angola

In Angola, authorities dismantled 25 cryptocurrency mining centres run by 60 Chinese nationals. The crackdown also uncovered 45 illicit power stations, confiscating mining equipment and IT assets worth more than USD 37 million, which the government now plans to redirect to support power distribution in vulnerable areas.

Zambia

In Zambia, the FBI reported that authorities broke up a massive online investment fraud scheme that had lured 65,000 victims into fake cryptocurrency ventures through aggressive advertising campaigns. The fraud caused losses estimated at USD 300 million. Police arrested 15 suspects, seizing domains, mobile numbers, and bank accounts linked to the scam. In a separate case, investigators uncovered a scam centre suspected of ties to human trafficking, confiscating 372 forged passports from seven countries in joint operations with the Immigration Department in Lusaka.

Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire authorities dismantled a transnational inheritance scam with roots in Germany, arresting the main suspect and seizing electronics, jewellery, cash, vehicles, and documents. The scam, which tricked victims into paying fees for fake inheritances, caused losses of USD 1.6 million.

Other countries involved

Operation Serengeti 2.0 was carried out under the umbrella of the African Joint Operation against Cybercrime in other countries including; Benin, Cameroon, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Seychelles, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom.

Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza praised the results, saying, “Each Interpol-coordinated operation builds on the last, deepening cooperation, increasing information sharing and developing investigative skills across member countries. This global network is stronger than ever, delivering real outcomes and safeguarding victims.”

The operation ran from June to August 2025 and brought together investigators from across Africa and the United Kingdom to tackle high-impact cybercrimes such as ransomware, online scams, and business email compromise (BEC).

He revealed that his long-standing engagement with Cambodia began over a decade ago through his collaboration with exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy.

“I helped him to write his English-language autobiography, which was published in 2013,” Whitehouse said. “Sam Rainsy is a former finance minister of Cambodia in the 1990s."

Whitehouse, now a freelance journalist with a special focus on Southeast Asia, believes Cambodia’s cybercrime industry represents a new phase of long-standing state corruption. “Back in the 1990s, corruption took the form primarily of illegal logging,” he says. “These days, it’s more about cyber scams being more profitable and far less labour-intensive, which, it's fair to say, make money much faster, in much larger quantities,” he noted.

“There is a large body of evidence that the same ruling elite is now being supported by the receipts of cybercrime,” he added.

Whitehouse traced the rapid rise of scam compounds to the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted tourism and left Chinese-run casinos in Cambodia idle.

“COVID-19 made it impossible for these casinos to operate. So what happened is that those casinos were repurposed… into what today are cyber scam compounds,” he explained. “This process has been quite well documented.”

He cited reports from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, as well as a recent Amnesty International publication, both detailing how these facilities have transformed into heavily guarded centres where trafficked victims are forced to defraud people online.

According to reports by Reuters , Human rights group Amnesty International accused Cambodia’s government on Thursday, June 26, of "deliberately ignoring" abuses by cybercrime gangs that have trafficked people from across the world, including children, into slavery at brutal scam compounds.

Amnesty said its findings revealed a "pattern of state failures" that allowed the billion-dollar industry to flourish, including failures to investigate human rights abuses, identify and assist victims, and regulate security companies and tools of torture.

“They are almost without exception sealed. You can’t walk in and out — especially you can’t walk out. They often use barbed wire and electric fences to keep people in,” Whitehouse said.

Africa in the crosshairs

Initially, the scam networks exploited Chinese-speaking victims. But as operations expanded, traffickers sought English speakers — and began targeting Africa.

“Now [they] include pretty much anywhere where there are English-speaking people,” said Whitehouse. “That certainly includes the English-speaking countries of Africa. If there are young people who need a job… those are the type of people the scammers are looking to recruit.”

He identified East African countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Mozambique as particularly vulnerable, citing logistical ease of travel and the influence of nearby trafficking hubs such as Dubai.

Francophone summit raises questions

Whitehouse also criticised the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) for choosing Cambodia to host its next summit.

“The danger with inviting a host of leaders from the Francophone world is that it legitimises the location as a safe, secure, legitimate place to do business and to work,” he warned. “That’s a dangerous signal for people in Africa… who may be tempted to take up job offers there, which may not be real.”

He emphasised that African governments attending the summit should be fully briefed on Cambodia’s cybercrime problem to avoid inadvertently endorsing a country linked to human trafficking and financial scams.

“There should be space for civil society in Cambodia to be represented at the summit,” he said. “Otherwise, you're simply going to get the government narrative.”

Although the U.S. has sanctioned entities like Huione, a conglomerate allegedly linked to the Cambodian government, Whitehouse believes the global response remains piecemeal.

“There’s obviously some awareness of the issue, and some actions have been taken, but they are quite piecemeal. There’s a lot more that needs to be done,” he said.

That includes raising awareness at home. “Governments everywhere, and certainly including African governments, need to do more to warn people about the dangers of travelling to Southeast Asia to take up a job that you don't really know about.”

The Philippines’ wellness market grew 21% to $43.3 billion in 2023, now accounting for 9.9% of GDP, per the Global Wellness Institute. Ranked 8th in Asia Pacific and 23rd globally, the sector is attracting tourists and investors. Manila is emerging as a "playground city," blending luxury real estate with lifestyle offerings, while branded residences from groups like The Ascott Limited are reshaping hospitality and real estate.

Treasury sanctions Philippines-based company for cyber scams

The Treasury Department sanctioned Funnull Technology Inc. , a Philippine company tied to “pig butchering” crypto scams, citing over $200 million in U.S. victim losses. The department also sanctioned Burma’s Karen National Army and proposed restrictions on Cambodia-based Huione Group for similar scams. Crypto crime losses surged 66% in 2024 to $9.3 billion, highlighting the need for urgent policy action.

Fortinet survey reveals Philippines’ cybersecurity under siege

Fortinet reports a surge in sophisticated cyber threats in the Philippines and Asia Pacific, driven by attackers using AI to scale stealthy, fast-moving attacks. New threats include deepfake BEC, AI-powered social engineering, and polymorphic malware, with only 9% of Philippine firms feeling fully prepared. Traditional ransomware and phishing remain prevalent, but stealthy threats like unpatched systems and cloud misconfigurations now pose even greater risks.

Dubai Chamber boosts trade with the Philippines

Dubai Chamber of Commerce hosted 180 business meetings in Manila as part of its New Horizons initiative, fostering ties with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce. The mission involved 17 Dubai firms across various sectors, including F&B, automotive, and construction. A key highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance trade collaboration. Bilateral non-oil trade reached AED 3.1 billion in 2024, with investment opportunities in tourism, telecom, and healthcare.

Philippines trade deficit narrows in April 2025

The Philippines’ trade deficit shrank to -$3.494 billion in April 2025, from -$4.127 billion in March. This improvement suggests stronger exports, lower imports, or both, reflecting economic resilience and possibly easing pressure on the peso.

The number of people who actually lost money also went up, from 8 per cent to 11 per cent.

Citing the report, The EastLeigh Voice estimates that each victim lost an average of $897, or about 116,000 Kenyan shillings, which indicates a growing financial burden caused by digital scams.

Online gaming, especially gambling and poker platforms, has emerged as the most affected sector in Kenya.

The rise in fraud comes as more young people engage with online games and betting platforms.

But this is not only peculiar in Kenya; globally, the gaming industry is among the top three sectors most hit by fraud, behind online forums and video gaming platforms.

Communities such as dating sites and discussion forums saw the highest rate of suspected fraud at 11.6 per cent in 2024, according to the report.

Fraud linked to gaming platforms rose by 20 per cent last year, while other areas, including logistics, jumped by over 100 per cent, government services, and financial institutions.

The most common method used by fraudsters in Kenya was smishing, which involves using fraudulent text messages that trick users into revealing personal details or clicking harmful links.

These messages often appear to come from trusted organisations, making them harder to detect.

TransUnion warns that fraud tactics are becoming more advanced, with criminals adapting quickly to new technologies and consumer habits.

Vanuatu's Parliament has unanimously passed the Harmful Digital Communications (Amendment) Act of 2025, expanding its 2024 law to combat online abuse, impersonation, and pornography. Key updates include criminalising online impersonation and use of forged IDs for fraud, explicit ban on pornography, including creation, sharing, or hosting, protection for minors and that is exposing those under 16 to pornographic content now carries penalties of up to VT 2,000,000 or three years in prison, court powers to block adult sites and mandate takedowns of illegal content or fake accounts. The law introduces three new offences: digital impersonation using counterfeit IDs, distributing pornography, and exposing minors to explicit content. Companies enabling ID misuse may be fined up to VT 5,000,000.

Digicel Vanuatu commits to 99% mobile coverage under UAP

Digicel Vanuatu has signed its 5th Undertaking under the Universal Access Policy, aiming to extend mobile coverage to 99% of the population. Despite Vanuatu’s challenging geography—over 80 islands across 1,300 km—the telco reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the digital divide. 4G coverage stood at 90% by the end of 2023, according to ITU data. The expansion will also support access to MyCash mobile wallets, e-learning, e-health, and digital finance for remote communities. No timeline was specified. “This is a leap forward to ensuring access to the life-changing potential of mobile coverage,” said CEO Gary Sue-Fong.

Australia helping Vanuatu with museum collection upkeep

After the 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Port Vila in December, staff at the National Museum of Vanuatu were devastated by the damage. "It was all a mess," said curator Kaitip Kami. Thirteen display cases were destroyed, and numerous artefacts—including ancient Lapita pottery—were lost. Housed in the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, the museum safeguards priceless cultural items, including ancestral remains, which survived the fall due to their placement on lower shelves. Under Ni-Vanuatu custom, only the original tribes may repair damaged artefacts. "You have to have the right," said Kami, noting plans to bring in community members from affected islands once funding allows.

Vanuatu, GGGI strengthen climate resilience partnership

The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) has renewed its commitment to climate action in Vanuatu following a high-level meeting with Climate Minister Ralph Regenvanu. Leaders discussed strengthening collaboration on resilience, adaptation, and sustainable development. GGGI praised Vanuatu’s climate leadership and green progress, including installing 37 solar water pumps across 36 rural communities, aiding over 20,000 people. The institute has also helped shape Vanuatu’s Loss and Damage Policy, adaptation plans, and green investments in energy and forestry. GGGI reaffirmed its support for locally led climate solutions, calling Vanuatu one of its most successful programmes.

Vanuatu has a new island destination

Coming in early 2027, Royal Caribbean will unveil Lelepa , a new private island destination in Vanuatu—the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Unlike the theme-park style of Coco Cay, Lelepa will offer a locally inspired, culturally immersive experience with serene beaches, nature trails, and water activities. Designed in partnership with local communities, everything from the layout to the use of locally grown produce reflects Vanuatu’s culture and environment. “With crystal clear waters and stunning beauty, Lelepa will be the perfect addition to South Pacific holidays,” said Gavin Smith, Royal Caribbean VP for Australia and New Zealand.

The compromised account, followed by nearly 470,000 users, is normally used by police to update the public on crime, arrests and other official work.

The said page was briefly taken over by unknown attackers who posted misleading messages and launched a live broadcast.

The account had not shared any new updates since Saturday, May 17, before the incident took place. It is not clear who was behind the hack or how long they had access to the page.

Meanwhile, the police have issued a statement indicating a search for persons who hacked the page and spread false information.

"Police are looking for those who spread misrepresentative information on Twitter," parts of the statement said.

The incident happened as tensions rose between the government and opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is currently on trial for treason.

The case has attracted international attention, with several foreign human rights activists attempting to attend the proceedings.

On May 19, President Suluhu criticised what she called foreign interference.

In a televised speech during the launch of a new foreign policy document, she warned regional activists not to meddle in the country’s affairs.

She confirmed that several activists from Kenya had been blocked from entering Tanzania and sent back to Nairobi.

“They have already destabilised their countries,” the president said. “Let us not allow them to do the same here. Tanzania is still peaceful and we intend to keep it that way,” she was quoted by local reports as saying.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the cyberattack on the police account is connected to the ongoing political tensions.

According to a sworn affidavit by Police Constable Peter Mwangi, Mogwasi is alleged to have operated a fake Facebook account under the name of June Ruto, where he posted content on March 20 and April 8, 2025, purporting to be the president’s daughter, the Standard reports.

Mogwasi was arrested on Wednesday, April 9, in Mombasa County, before being transported to Nairobi for questioning and further investigation. The DCI cited provisions under Section 29 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act No. 5 of 2018, which criminalizes identity theft and impersonation using digital platforms.

“The respondent (Mogwasi) was arrested... on allegations of identity theft and impersonation,” Officer Mwangi told the court, emphasising that the matter involves complex digital evidence that requires additional time to analyse.

The DCI has requested a full week of custody to allow forensic experts to examine the Facebook account activity, trace communication logs, and determine the full extent of the impersonation. Authorities believe the account may have misled members of the public and could have been used for undisclosed malicious intent.

Brigadier General Untung Widyatmoko, secretary of the Indonesian National Central Bureau (NCB) Interpol, said the group was arrested by Philippine authorities for crimes linked to online gambling and fraud.

The Indonesian Embassy in Manila worked with police to bring the group home shortly before midnight on Saturday.

Indonesian authorities will now investigate the deportees to determine who was a victim and who was involved in the crimes.

The incident comes weeks after Indonesia brought back hundreds of citizens who were forced to work for online scam networks in Myanmar. Many had been lured with promises of high-paying jobs in Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries but were trapped in conditions like digital slavery.

Between 2020 and 2023, more than 4,700 Indonesians were rescued from cybercrime groups in Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, according to Indonesian government data.

A total of 554 people, including 449 men and 105 women, were recently brought back from Myanmar after joint operations involving Chinese, Thai, and local militias.

Myanmar authorities arrested three individuals, including a Malaysian national, for drug trafficking activities in Yangon. A joint anti-narcotic task force conducted a vehicle search on December 22, resulting in the seizure of substantial quantities of illegal substances, including 238.5 grams of 'Happy Water,' 27 grams of ketamine, and 400 stimulant tablets. Another suspect apprehended had additional drugs, culminating in a total haul of 6.125 kg of 'Happy Water,' 950 grams of ketamine, and 240 ecstasy pills. Following the arrests, the Malaysian suspect was discovered in possession of another 75 grams of ketamine, 450 ecstasy pills, and drug manufacturing equipment. According to The Star , the total estimated value of the confiscated drugs amounts to approximately 278 million kyats (roughly US$132,000), with reports indicating that the suspects targeted young individuals in entertainment venues across Yangon. Legal proceedings are now underway to address these serious allegations.

Mass tourism strategy

Myanmar's Myeik Archipelago is preparing to welcome a vibrant New Year celebration in 2025, focusing on elevating service quality for both domestic and international tourists. The region aims to showcase its unique charm and natural beauty, establishing itself as a premier holiday destination through memorable experiences for visitors, TTW reports.

Thailand denies arm purchases for Myanmar

In neighbouring Thailand, The Edge reports that the country's central bank and anti-money laundering agency have responded to claims made by a UN expert regarding the potential facilitation of weapons purchases by Thai banks for Myanmar's military. Although a June UN report suggested that Thai banks channelled US$120 million to Myanmar's junta in fiscal 2023, the findings disclosed no evidence of associations with arms procurement, instead highlighting occasional transactions with individuals mentioned in the report. This review underscores the necessity for enhanced anti-money laundering practices to mitigate the risks of funding illegal activities and human rights violations.

China charges Myanmar Golden Triangle syndicate suspects with murder

Chinese authorities have made substantial strides in tackling cross-border cybercrime by charging 39 suspects, including 16 individuals from Myanmar, in connection with serious offences such as murder and telecom fraud linked to the significant Ming family. As reported by My News , these criminal factions reportedly coerced individuals into participating in telecom scams, generating millions of dollars daily. Since September, over 31,000 telecom fraud suspects have been extradited from Myanmar to China, revealing the extensive nature of these criminal operations, particularly in Myawaddy, a border town.

Myanmar is one of the world's biggest refugee contributor

The UNHCR has documented a troubling increase in the global refugee count, which has surpassed 122 million in 2024, a rise from 117.4 million in the previous year. UNO-Flüchtlingshilfe has characterised the situation as 'shocking,' reinforcing the urgent need for protective measures for those affected. Major contributing factors include the ongoing civil war in Sudan, displacing over 11.8 million individuals, in conjunction with crises in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Myanmar. Furthermore, conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon have resulted in the displacement of over 1.7 million people, further exacerbating the global refugee crisis, The Star reports.

What they said

Woo Jong-soo, the head of the National Office of Investigation, is quoted by The Korea Herald on Monday, September 2, to have said that the police investigation was based on “complicity, aiding and abetting crimes involving Deepfake pornography. Investigating Telegram is difficult, as they do not share account information and other forms of personal information with investigative officials or law enforcement agencies based in Korea and in other countries. However, it’s not true that because Telegram didn’t give us the material to investigate, we are unable to catch the actual perpetrators of the crimes. We (the Korean police have our own investigative techniques are are doing our best to investigate.”

In recent years, South Korea has faced a growing crisis of digital sex crimes, particularly involving 'deepfake' technology.

This technology, which uses artificial intelligence to create realistic but fake videos and images has been misused to make explicit photos and videos of women without their consent.

According to recent reports , South Korea is the country most targeted by deepfake pornography, with its singers and actresses constituting 53% of the individuals featured in such deepfakes.

In response to the public outcry, the South Korean government has pledged to take stronger action against digital sex crimes. This includes tougher laws to criminalize the creation, distribution, and viewing of sexually exploitative deepfakes.

The government has also increased the number of regulatory personnel monitoring such crimes and established a 24-hour hotline for victims

However, these same features have also attracted the attention of criminal elements, leading to the current legal scrutiny.

According to a Marketing and Brand expert, Allyson Stewart-Allen, "The CEO of Telegram has been arrested in France mostly because the French authorities strongly believe that the company has not done the content moderation that it should be doing, the platform specifically is containing several indecent images of Children."

Adding that, "It's also a platform for organised crime, and a lot of these conversations are taking place on Telegram. Because they're encrypted means that authorities like the French government, like the European Union, like the United States, are not gonna be able to access terrorism, for example, or other nefarious activities that are planned and pursued through Telegram's application," she said.

French judicial authorities have placed Durov under formal investigation as part of a broader probe into organized crime activities facilitated through Telegram The investigation focuses on several serious allegations, including illicit transactions on the platform and the distribution of sexual images of children.

Durov, however, was granted bail on Thursday, August 29 under strict conditions, including a €5 million ($5.5 million) deposit, reporting to the police twice a week, and a ban on leaving the French territory.

What they said

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday, August 26 clarified on X that the arrest was not a political manhunt but emphasised: "The arrest of the president of Telegram on French soil took place as part of an ongoing judicial investigation. It is in no way a political decision. It is up to the judges to rule on the matter."

Khelif, who won gold in the women's 66-kilogramme boxing competition, faced a barrage of online abuse and accusations regarding her gender eligibility.

Despite being born female and not identifying as transgender or intersex, Khelif's participation in the Olympics was met with widespread controversy, particularly on social media platforms after Italian boxer Angela Carini abandoned her Olympic bout against her after 46 seconds.

The lawsuit, filed with French authorities, accuses Rowling and Musk of contributing to the cyberbullying through their public comments and social media posts.

Rowling allegedly posted a picture from Khelif's fight, accusing her of being a man and "enjoying the distress of a woman he's just punched in the head." Musk, on the other hand, shared a post from swimmer Riley Gaines, asserting that "men don't belong in women's sports," which he endorsed with his comment.

Khelif's lawyer, Nabil Boudi, confirmed that the lawsuit names both Rowling and Musk, along with other high-profile figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump. The Paris Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into the allegations, focusing on cyber harassment, public insult, and incitement to discrimination.

The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by athletes, particularly women, in the digital age. Khelif's victory, which should have been a moment of triumph, has instead been overshadowed by a contentious debate over gender and sports.

The outcome of this lawsuit could set a significant precedent for how online harassment is addressed in the future.

The vulnerability of critical information infrastructure poses threats not only to national security but also to economic prosperity, the report notes.

A 2023 study by Positive Technologies identified that the most targeted organisations were in the financial sector (18% of attacks), followed by telecommunications companies (13%), government agencies (12%), and organisations in the trade (12%) and industrial (10%) sectors.

Scholars, including Assane Gueye, co-director of CyLab-Africa, “point out five specific cybersecurity challenges facing Africa: digital illiteracy, especially prevalent in rural areas; a severe shortage of cybersecurity professionals due to limited training; lack of tested security measures; hidden costs of ageing infrastructure; and the pronounced digital literacy gap among African women, who generally have less access to internet-based technologies compared to men,” the report stated.

Despite these challenges, there are significant economic opportunities on the continent. By 2030, the report projects that AI applications in sub-Saharan Africa, including in countries like Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, are to generate an economic value of USD 136 billion, surpassing Kenya's current GDP. 

Palau's President Surangel Whipps on Wednesday accused China of a major cyberattack on the country, one of Taiwan's few diplomatic allies. Taiwan offered on June 10 to help Palau strengthen its digital defenses after the New York Times reported that over 20,000 documents had been stolen from Palau's government. The Island Times reports that President Whipps said the documents were taken in March, shortly after Palau signed a new 20-year economic and security deal with the United States.

Demolition activities

The Sabah government is investigating the controversial demolition of Bajau Laut (Palau) community houses in Semporna. State Tourism Minister expressed surprise and is seeking more information on the incident. The demolition took place over two days in June, involving seven islands. Non-governmental organisations have condemned the action as inhumane and rights-violating, The Star reports.

Japan, Palau cooperations

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida and Palau President Whipps discussed strengthening cooperation in the free and open Indo-Pacific, including infrastructure, agriculture, and fisheries. They also plan to address challenges in the Pacific region, such as climate change. They will also host a summit for Pacific island nations in July, Japan News reports.

Palau elections

Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. expects China to meddle in the upcoming election due to the country's recognition of Taiwan. He believes China sees him as an enemy and wants to install a more friendly leader. The US is also involved in the region, with plans for military deployment in Palau. Whipps confirmed a cyberattack on the government, blaming China. The Print reports that he met with Japan's Prime Minister to discuss deepening maritime security cooperation.

Many left homeless after demolition

Displaced Palau people have moved to other islands and coastal villages after the demolition of their community houses in Semporna. Many are left with almost nothing and are facing insults from local communities. Claims that some villagers torched their own homes during the demolition were dismissed as unlikely. According to The Star , the authorities have stated that the demolition was for security reasons and eviction notices were issued for illegal structures. Sabah Chief Minister has assured plans to address the matter and not treat the Palau community with cruelty.

Thailand has cancelled a proposed $8 tourist tax for foreign air travellers due to opposition. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has said that more tourists without the fee will boost spending. Visa Guide reports that the country also approves longer visa stays for tourists, remote workers, students, and retirees.

Arrests over cyber crimes

Thai police have made over 14,000 arrests in a crackdown on call centre scams, investment fraud, and illegal gambling. They have also frozen $122.2 million in assets and are working to distribute it to victims. Authorities are also dismantling the financial networks tied to these operations, the Asia Gaming Brief has said.

Calls for reform of royal defamation law

Thailand's Move Forward Party, which won the 2023 election, may be dissolved by the Constitutional Court, nullifying the votes of 14 million people and leading to political instability, VOA news reports. The party's call for reform of the royal defamation law has led to the court's consideration of its dissolution. If dissolved, it would be the second progressive party in five years to suffer this fate. The monarchy, backed by the army, holds significant power and has a history of banning parties and influential politicians. If dissolved, most of Move Forward's lawmakers are expected to regroup under a new banner, while others may defect to coalition parties. The party's predecessor, Future Forward, was dissolved in 2019, and its leader, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, believes in a new era of progressive Thailand.

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report 2024 has identified Lithuania as the happiest place for people under 30, with other European countries dominating the top spots. Asian destinations like Taiwan and Thailand have made it to the World Happiness Report 2024 as some of the happiest places for people under 30 with Lithuania leading the list. The report evaluates factors like social support, healthy life expectancy, and freedom to assess happiness. User data, along with GDP per capita, is also considered. Lithuania stood out for its free education, vibrant nightlife, and low rent. Taiwan and Thailand were also recognised for their friendly locals and tourist-friendly initiatives, Travel+Leisure reports.

European Football Tournament

Euro 2024, the European football tournament starting on June 14 in Germany, is expected to boost economic circulation in Thailand as well. Mr Thanavath Phonvichai, President of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Economic and Business Forecasting Centre revealed on June 10 the results of a survey on the behaviour and spending of the public during the Euro 2024 football tournament.It is expected that the economic circulation will be 87.6 billion baht or 2,365 billion USD, an increase of 14% compared to the previous Euro tournament. According to Khaosod , This can be broken down into 20.5 billion baht in economic spending, an increase of 5.1%, and 67 billion baht in non-economic spending (football betting), an increase of 17.10%.

Zambia's corn production is expected to drop by over 50% in 2024/25 due to drought, leading the country to import approximately 1 million metric tons of corn to maintain food security. The government has authorised private sector imports, but only genetically engineered free corn will be permitted. However, this limits imports to neighboring Tanzania, excluding corn from South Africa, the main producer in the region, Reliefweb reports.

Foreign healthcare volunteerism

Foreign healthcare volunteers in Africa, especially from the United States, have been found to harm relationships between local Zambian health professionals and patients. The Conversation reports that the presence of volunteers, who can provide higher quality care due to their privilege, has created division and resentment. This relational harm highlights the need for global health volunteers and organisations to consider the impact on local relationships and work towards strengthening them.

Cybercrime arrests

22 Chinese nationals were arrested in Zambia for cybercrime, involving deceptive conversations with mobile users and the use of SIM boxes. Leader Li Xianlin received 11 years in prison. Raid on Chinese-owned businesses led to the discovery of large-scale criminal operations. 77 people were arrested, including Zambians and a Cameroonian. According to Business Insider Africa , more than 13,000 SIM cards were confiscated, demonstrating the extensive reach of the operation.

Upgrades at Mfuwe International Airport

Mfuwe International Airport in Zambia will remain open for upgrades during the 2024 peak tourism season, allowing access to South Luangwa National Park, Travel Daily News reports. The upgrades will take place over 90 days starting on June 13. This decision will support tourism in Zambia and ensure the continued growth of the industry.

IMF support for Zambia

The International Monetary Fund has agreed to provide $574 million in financial assistance to Zambia to support the country after severe drought. This follows a request to increase a previous loan deal from $1.3 billion to $1.7 billion. Zambia's Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane said the agreement reflects the government's efforts to reform the economy and put its accounts in order. Jamaica Observer reports that the country has been struggling with a significant deceleration in GDP growth and a looming food crisis due to the drought.

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved a Country Strategy Pape r for Zambia for 2024-2029. The focus will be on boosting the private sector through investment in infrastructure and developing the agricultural value chain. The interventions will aim to improve productivity, create job opportunities, and enhance the country's economic diversification. The Bank will also support improvements in water and sanitation access and provide assistance to the agricultural sector, with a focus on climate resilience and productivity. The Bank's active portfolio in Zambia currently consists of 23 projects with a total commitment of almost a Billion US Dollars.

Women’s team qualify for Paris Olympics

Zambia and Nigeria secured the final spots in the women's football tournament at the Paris Olympics. The tournament will feature 12 teams, including the hosts France, World Cup winners Spain, and four-time Olympic champions the USA. Zambia and Nigeria will face tough competition in their respective groups, with Nigeria playing against world champions Spain, former world champions Japan, and Brazil.

Chinese cybercrime syndicate busted

Zambia has arrested 77 people, including 22 Chinese nationals, in connection with a sophisticated internet fraud syndicate . The Chinese-run company, Golden Top Support Services, employed Zambians who engaged in deceptive conversations with mobile phone users. The company used scripted dialogues on various platforms and seized equipment that allowed them to disguise their location and used thousands of SIM cards.

Minnesota tourist killed by elephant

Minnesota tourist Gail Mattson, 79, was killed by a bull elephant while on a game drive in a Zambian national park. The attack injured five others. Mattson was described as an adventurer who loved to travel. “Sadly, she lost her life in a tragic accident while on her dream adventure,” her daughter, Rona Wells, shared on Facebook. The aggressive bull elephant charged at the truck which was contained six guests and a guide on a morning excursion through wild areas, according to the safari company Wilderness. The terrain made it impossible for the vehicle to get away, Keith Vincent, CEO of the safari company said.

Food poisoning victims

105 people in Chililabombwe district near the Democratic Republic of the Congo border were hospitalised for suspected food poisoning after eating chicken shawarma from Cribz restaurant. The restaurant owner, Bright Kapasa, has been arrested in connection with the incident. 105 patients were admitted to five health facilities.

The governments of Mexico and Venezuela have signed an immigration repatriation pact, as announced in a statement by the Venezuelan government. The agreement is aimed at protecting Venezuelan nationals residing in Mexico. President Nicolás Maduro highlighted the accord's significance during discussions at the VIII Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Foreign Minister Yván Gil Pinto represented the Bolivarian Government, while his Mexican counterpart, Alicia Bárcena, signed on behalf of Mexico, reports local media El Universal .

Arrest of former Ecuador vice president

The Government of Mexico has firmly rejected Ecuador's request to enter the Mexican embassy in Quito and arrest Jorge Glas, former vice president during Rafael Correa's presidency. Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena emphasized that allowing such action would violate diplomatic immunity and set a dangerous precedent. Bárcena reiterated Mexico's stance, stating that the embassy is protected by diplomatic immunity and that Ecuador's request cannot be entertained, reports local media Informador .

Diving World Cup

The Mexican delegation at the Diving World Cup in Montreal secured Mexico's second medal in the competition. Alejandra Orozco and Gabriela Agúndez showcased remarkable skill and executed dives of quality and difficulty, earning them a well-deserved spot on the podium. The duo's synchronised performance in the 10m platform final earned them a total score of 297.84, clinching third place, reports local media El Universal . Great Britain took the silver and China secured the gold with a total score of 368.82.

Cyberbullying

The plenary session of the Senate of the Republic is set to approve a reform aimed at implementing prevention policies against cyberbullying targeting minors, given the rise in reported cases and dedicated networks facilitating this crime. The Digital Rights Commission has endorsed a draft decree aimed at promoting a violence-free online environment. The proposed policies aim to safeguard the rights of children and adolescents in the digital realm, ensuring their safe access to online platforms, local media Informador reported. Senator Ruth López Hernández, president of the commission, highlighted that the decree includes measures for prevention, protection, and punishment of any actions violating children's rights in terms of privacy, security, and dignity online.

Mexico qualifies for Paris 2024

Mexico celebrated two podium finishes on March 2, adding to its sporting achievements. Mexico claimed two bronze medals at the inaugural Diving World Cup in Montreal, Canada. Osmar Olvera and Rodrigo Diego secured their Olympic ticket for Paris 2024 with a bronze medal performance, scoring 409.71 in the synchronised diving event, local media Excelsior reported. China took gold in both events, with the United Kingdom claiming silver.