Major European Police Operation Targets Black Axe Network With Dozens Arrested in Spain

A large cross-border police operation coordinated by European authorities has led to the arrest of 34 suspected members of the notorious Black Axe crime network in Spain, dealing a significant blow to an organisation investigators believe is responsible for large-scale fraud across several continents.

The operation was led by Spanish law enforcement with support from Europol and involved cooperation with police and judicial authorities in multiple European and African countries. Officials said the coordinated raids were the result of years of intelligence gathering into a sophisticated criminal structure that has operated largely behind digital platforms and international money flows.

Black Axe, originally formed decades ago in Nigeria, has evolved into a transnational criminal network accused of cyber fraud, romance scams, business email compromise schemes and identity theft. Europol investigators estimate the group generates billions of euros annually by targeting victims across Europe, North America and Asia. In this case alone, authorities believe the network caused losses of more than €5.9 million to individuals and businesses.

According to investigators, the suspects arrested in Spain played key roles in laundering illicit proceeds, managing fraudulent online identities and recruiting new members. The network allegedly relied on shell companies, cryptocurrency transactions and mule accounts to move money quickly across borders and conceal its origins. Spanish police said several properties were searched during the operation, leading to the seizure of electronic devices, financial documents and luxury goods believed to have been purchased with criminal profits.

Europol described the group as highly organised, with strict internal hierarchies and initiation rituals designed to ensure loyalty and silence. Officials said this structure made the organisation particularly resilient and difficult to dismantle, as members often operated in small cells with limited knowledge of the wider network.

Spanish authorities said the arrests marked one of the most significant actions against Black Axe in Europe to date. Prosecutors are now working to connect the suspects to specific fraud cases, while financial investigators continue tracing assets believed to be linked to the network. Further arrests are not ruled out as evidence is analysed and international partners pursue related investigations.

Victims of the scams ranged from elderly individuals targeted through fake online relationships to companies deceived into transferring large sums after receiving falsified emails that appeared to come from trusted business partners. Police said the emotional and financial impact on victims was severe, with some losing life savings or facing long-term financial hardship.

European officials warned that organised crime groups are increasingly exploiting digital tools and global connectivity, making international cooperation essential. Europol said the success of the operation demonstrated how shared intelligence and coordinated enforcement can disrupt even deeply entrenched criminal networks.

Authorities urged the public and businesses to remain vigilant, highlighting the importance of verifying payment requests, being cautious with online relationships and reporting suspected fraud quickly. As court proceedings begin, investigators say the case sends a clear message that transnational criminal groups operating in Europe will face sustained and coordinated pressure from law enforcement.