Chinese Scam Groups Move to Madagascar Amid Crackdowns

Malagasy authorities, working with the US Department of Justice, dismantled 13 scam operations in August and September. These included romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and investment schemes, primarily run by Chinese nationals.

Madagascar’s Justice Ministry confirmed the extradition of 148 Chinese nationals to China in connection with the crackdowns. US authorities seized approximately $52 million in cryptocurrency and processed over 3,200 electronic devices during the investigation.

Investigators found that some African nationals from Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zimbabwe were likely victims of human trafficking. They were allegedly lured with job offers via Facebook, only to have their passports taken and be forced into scamming activities upon arrival.

Hassan Mouigni, head of Madagascar's police crime unit, stated that while 11 Chinese nationals arrested earlier were released from prison, several African nationals remain in custody, despite evidence suggesting they may be trafficking victims.

Chui Kok Wa, a Malaysian national, is identified by the DOJ as a key operator of a romance scam scheme in Ivato, near Antananarivo. He is believed to have moved operations to Madagascar after being targeted in Cambodia.

Tsitohaina Ralihivao of Madagascar's cybercrime unit confirmed that these groups relocated after being dismantled in Cambodia. FBI documents suggest the move was partly due to armed conflict between Cambodia and Thailand and increased police action.

These networks now recruit English-speaking Africans to target markets in the US, Canada, and Pakistan. Authorities noted a shift from discreet villas to renting entire hotels, drawing more attention to the operations.