Hi-tech sting leads to global crackdown on organized crime, over 800 detained
(VOVWORLD) - Global law enforcement agencies hacked into an app used by criminals and read millions of encrypted messages, leading to hundreds of arrests of organized crime figures in 18 countries, officials said on Tuesday.
The operation by Australian and European police and the US Federal Bureau of Investigation ensnared suspects in Australia, Asia, Europe, South America and the Middle East involved in the global narcotics trade, the officials said.
Over 800 suspected members of organized crime gangs were arrested and 148 million USD in cash seized in raids around the world. Tons of drugs were also seized, the officials said.
Named Operation Trojan Shield by the FBI, it was one of the biggest infiltrations and takeovers of a specialized encrypted network.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the operation "struck a heavy blow against organized crime – not just in this country, but one that will echo ... around the world".