Nigeria’s Black Axe – A New Global Scam Mafia is Spreading
The Stark Reality of One of the World’s Deadliest Crime Syndicates!
Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals
Authors:
• SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Portions Translated from Deutsche Welle
• Post main image source: BBC – copyright acknowledged
About This Article
The Black Axe is one of the world’s most dangerous criminal organizations, with roots in Nigeria but an extensive global reach. Much of its wealth is derived from internet scams and financial fraud, often involving romance scams where victims, usually women, are deceived into sending large sums of money.
The group’s structure is complex and loosely organized, making it difficult for law enforcement to dismantle. However, recent efforts by Interpol, including Operation Jackal III, have led to significant arrests and the freezing of bank accounts, highlighting the need for international cooperation in combating such criminal networks.
Despite these successes, experts warn that the Black Axe and similar groups continue to pose a serious threat, with deep-rooted connections to other criminal activities such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and human trafficking. These organizations have evolved from their origins as secret societies and student associations into powerful mafia-like syndicates that operate with terrifying secrecy and loyalty among their members.
Black Axe: Nigeria’s Mafia Cult – BBC Africa Eye documentary
WARNING: This video contains explicit criminal activities. View discretion is advised!
Black Axe is One of the World’s Deadliest Criminal Organizations and Much of Its Money Comes From Scams!
Translated from German
300 arrests, investigators from 20 countries, millions of dollars worth of stolen goods seized: Interpol has succeeded in striking a blow against the Black Axe, a scammer mafia group from West Africa.
What is behind the organization?
When Stephan Fuchs starts to talk about the structures of the Black Axe, dozens of papers quickly appear on his desk. Arrows, connecting lines, diagrams. The inner workings of the Nigerian group are complex – and according to expert Fuchs, that is precisely the recipe for its success. “Nigerian networks were recognized by the authorities,” he says, “but for a long time they were unable to understand the group dynamics and the mechanics behind them.”
The co-director of the Swiss victim protection organization Victras has been advising prosecutors for many years about groups like Black Axe from Nigeria and how they spread. In Europe, the general public has hardly known anything about them. However, the criminal organizations have grown rapidly worldwide in recent years: “They are involved in international drug trafficking, money laundering, internet fraud, human trafficking and, in some cases, protection racketeering. Arms trafficking has also been observed in Libya .”
Professional Network for Criminals
Law enforcement is now increasingly targeting the Black Axe, as the group is sometimes called in German-speaking countries. Between April and July, the international police organization Interpol carried out Operation Jackal III. In addition to 300 people arrested, more than 400 other suspects were identified worldwide and 720 bank accounts were blocked. Police officers from 21 countries were involved in the operations. “The operation shows how urgently international cooperation between law enforcement agencies is needed in this area,” explains Isaac Oginni, head of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Center.
One area of Black Axe’s criminal activities has recently become particularly prominent: financial and internet fraud. Tobias Uche is one of the people who have been warning for years about the group’s global spread. During his research, the private investigator came across chat forums in which criminals made fun of the victims of their online fraud. Often these were women, with whom they pretended to have romantic relationships and who transferred them large sums of money.
The deeper Uche penetrated into the underlying structures, the more a terrifying shadow world opened up to him. “This secret society is a kind of LinkedIn for criminals. The members know exactly where to find Person X, who provides fake ID documents, or Person Y, who has stolen credit cards on offer,” says Uche. It is precisely these rather loose network structures and the lack of a classic hierarchy that make the Black Axe so successful. After the private investigator published his first findings, he received numerous death threats. That is why he chose Tobias Uche as his cover name.
Secret Society, Cultist Sect, or Organized Crime Syndicate?
However, the Black Axe is not the only criminal group from Nigeria that has been spreading worldwide for years. Expert Stephan Fuchs names names: “The Supreme Eiye Confraternity, Supreme Vikings Confraternity, Green Circuit Association International, Eternal Fraternal Order of the Legion Consortium – these are probably the best known in Europe.” However, prosecutors often disagree on the description of the groups. While some speak of Nigerian secret societies or simply of criminal networks, others prefer descriptions such as brotherhood (confraternity) or sect (cult). “All statements are correct,” says Stephan Fuchs.
This makes prosecution particularly difficult: by no means all members who identify themselves as members of one of these groups are involved in criminal activities. The origins of many secret societies go back to the time of the African independence movements in the 1950s and 1960s, when young activists against colonial rule formed underground student associations. But in Nigeria’s political chaos, criminals have infiltrated the groups. At the same time, they have increasingly recruited young, violent men from the streets.
Dropouts are in Mortal Danger
Nigerian John Omoruan was also a member of the Black Axe for many years. Despite all the dangers, the dropout decided to speak publicly about the inner workings of the secret societies. For him, the group’s drift into organized crime began at the end of the 1980s. “That was when they discovered the smuggling of marijuana to Europe,” says Omoruan. Criminals infiltrated the Black Axe because they found optimal structures for their business: terrifying rituals instill unconditional loyalty and absolute secrecy in all new members. The groups then became increasingly unscrupulous and spread to migrant communities all over the world – but at the same time, their original principle and cohesion have hardly changed.
For victim protection expert Fuchs, Interpol’s latest action shows that prosecutors now have a better understanding of the structures and methods of the Black Axe. Nevertheless, he warns against resting on their laurels. When fighting them, the criminal groups from Nigeria must be seen for what they are: a dangerous mafia.
Please Rate This Article
Please Leave Us Your Comment
Also, tell us of any topics we might have missed.
Thank you for your comment. You may receive an email to follow up. We never share your data with marketers.
-/ 30 /-
What do you think about this?
Please share your thoughts in a comment above!
-/ 30 /-
What do you think about this?
Please share your thoughts in a comment above!
ARTICLE RATING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
META
CATEGORIES
MOST POPULAR COMMENTED ARTICLES
POPULAR ARTICLES
U.S. & Canada Suicide Lifeline 988
![NavyLogo@4x-81[1]](https://scamsnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/NavyLogo@4x-811.png)
WHAT PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT
LATEST SITE COMMENTS
See Comments for this Article at the Bottom of the Page
on Introverts Differ from Extroverts in Recovery Programs – 2025: “Thank you.” May 27, 14:17
on Introverts Differ from Extroverts in Recovery Programs – 2025: “As an extroverted introvert, I feel seen by this article. I feel anxious in group settings until I stumble through…” May 27, 10:14
on Vulnerability and Breakdown in Scam Victims – The Camel’s Back Syndrome Metaphor – 2024: “This comparison to the Camel’s Back really helped me identify how things played out for me during my crime. And…” May 25, 15:56
on Chasing Justice in Ghana – A Romance Scam Victim’s Story – A Short Story – 2025: “This is indeed sad, that’s how it works in every scam cases, each has its own story to tell, only…” May 25, 07:20
on What is Commitment? 2025: ““Commitment is the discipline of staying, of showing up, and of becoming someone you can live with. Not because the…” May 24, 16:27
on Having An Identity Crisis Because Of The Scam And Loss – 2024: “I realize I’m in the midst of an identity crisis. My identity is heavily linked to my work. Being an…” May 22, 15:34
on Chasing Justice in Ghana – A Romance Scam Victim’s Story – A Short Story – 2025: “Although “made up”, it’s certainly a story that is happening around the world every day. Thankfully most “victims” do not…” May 22, 14:58
on Chasing Justice in Ghana – A Romance Scam Victim’s Story – A Short Story – 2025: “There is a very important message from this story: after discovering a scam, never in any way try to seek…” May 22, 13:07
on Chasing Justice in Ghana – A Romance Scam Victim’s Story – A Short Story – 2025: “La cruda realidad cuando has sido víctima de estafa, lamentablemente esta es una historia que han vivido muchas personas tristemente…” May 22, 11:57
on Make a Plan, Any Plan, Even a Bad Plan Is Better Than No Plan – 2025: “It is true. A plan, however doubtful, is a step forward, boosting self-esteem, self-confidence and belief in yourself.” May 22, 07:26
on Acknowledging The Harm Done – 2025: “Thank you. The choice to recover, heal and be you again, lies with you. Grab the wonderful opportunity SCARS makes…” May 22, 06:50
on Reckless Behavior and Thrill-Seeking Tendencies – Personality Types and Susceptibility to Scams – 2025: “Wow. This was an eye opener for me. I am definitely a high sensation seeker, risk and thrill seeker. “No…” May 21, 21:54
on A Labrador’s Tale – My Human’s Heartbreak – A Romance Scam Victim’s Story – A Short Story – 2025: “This is the sad truth told in the most beautiful way. I hope those who read this, realise in how…” May 20, 15:16
on Scam Victims Guide To Do-It-Yourself Exposure Therapy – 2024: “Very good article. This approach may not work for me. Working with my therapist is preferrable. I can see, however,…” May 20, 10:42
on Scam Victims Guide To Do-It-Yourself EFT Tapping – 2024: “I have tried tapping in the past and was not successful with it. That said I realize we are not…” May 20, 10:30
on CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy For Scam Victims’ Trauma – 2024: “Thank you for this article, currently scheduled to start EMDR.” May 20, 10:21
on CPT – Cognitive Processing Therapy For Scam Victims’ Trauma – 2024: “Very good explanation of what a person can expect from this type of therapy.” May 20, 09:53
on Secrets Can Be Deadly For Scam Victims – Scam Victim Recovery Psychology: “I’m finally feeling comfortable enough, or I should say healed enough, to talk about my ordeal with a few close…” May 19, 22:46
on Scam Victim Interlude – A Calm Pause in the Scam Victim’s Journey – 2025: “I would love to explore this phase further and learn about support strategies. This was a very interesting article that…” May 19, 22:06
on The Lament of the Lonely – A Romance Scam Victim’s Story – A Short Story – 2025: “Wonderful, encouraging, strong, healing” May 19, 21:36
Important Information for New Scam Victims
Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
SCARS Institute now offers a free recovery program at www.SCARSeducation.org
Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery
If you are looking for local trauma counselors, please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org
If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines
Statement About Victim Blaming
Some of our articles discuss various aspects of victims. This is both about better understanding victims (the science of victimology) and their behaviors and psychology. This helps us to educate victims/survivors about why these crimes happened and not to blame themselves, better develop recovery programs, and help victims avoid scams in the future. At times, this may sound like blaming the victim, but it does not blame scam victims; we are simply explaining the hows and whys of the experience victims have.
These articles, about the Psychology of Scams or Victim Psychology – meaning that all humans have psychological or cognitive characteristics in common that can either be exploited or work against us – help us all to understand the unique challenges victims face before, during, and after scams, fraud, or cybercrimes. These sometimes talk about some of the vulnerabilities the scammers exploit. Victims rarely have control of them or are even aware of them, until something like a scam happens, and then they can learn how their mind works and how to overcome these mechanisms.
Articles like these help victims and others understand these processes and how to help prevent them from being exploited again or to help them recover more easily by understanding their post-scam behaviors. Learn more about the Psychology of Scams at www.ScamPsychology.org
SCARS INSTITUTE RESOURCES:
IF YOU HAVE BEEN VICTIMIZED BY A SCAM OR CYBERCRIME
♦ If you are a victim of scams, go to www.ScamVictimsSupport.org for real knowledge and help
♦ Enroll in SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org
♦ To report criminals, visit https://reporting.AgainstScams.org – we will NEVER give your data to money recovery companies like some do!
♦ Follow us and find our podcasts, webinars, and helpful videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RomancescamsNowcom
♦ Learn about the Psychology of Scams at www.ScamPsychology.org
♦ Dig deeper into the reality of scams, fraud, and cybercrime at www.ScamsNOW.com and www.RomanceScamsNOW.com
♦ Scam Survivor’s Stories: www.ScamSurvivorStories.org
♦ For Scam Victim Advocates visit www.ScamVictimsAdvocates.org
♦ See more scammer photos on www.ScammerPhotos.com
You can also find the SCARS Institute on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and TruthSocial
Psychology Disclaimer:
All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only
The information provided in this and other SCARS articles are intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.
Note about Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices have the potential to create psychological distress for some individuals. Please consult a mental health professional or experienced meditation instructor for guidance should you encounter difficulties.
While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.
If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.
Also read our SCARS Institute Statement about Professional Care for Scam Victims – click here
If you are in crisis, feeling desperate, or in despair, please call 988 or your local crisis hotline.
More ScamsNOW.com Articles
A Question of Trust
At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish. Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors’ experience. You can do Google searches, but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.
Leave a Reply