At least 128 terror suspects have been identified in a first-of-its-kind INTERPOL-led operation aimed at disrupting terrorist networks in the digital space, including in Nigeria. The exercise, known as Operation Shams II, ran from June 1 to 5, 2026.

The operation used artificial intelligence to analyse visual content published by extremist groups. Officers extracted more than 108,000 facial images and, with the help of AI tools, narrowed them down to over 6,000 high-quality unique images for further processing.

These images were checked against INTERPOL’s Facial Recognition System. So far, 126 foreign terrorist fighters have been matched, providing new intelligence on possible locations and social networks. The data is being added to INTERPOL databases to support global tracking efforts.

The operation also employed cryptocurrency tools to trace illicit funding, resulting in urgent requests for customer information aimed at disrupting terrorist financing. Participating countries further engaged with the online gaming industry to address youth radicalisation in digital environments.

Twenty-eight specialised officers from 11 countries, including Nigeria, took part in the coordinated action held in Tunis, Tunisia. Officials said the combination of international cooperation and responsible AI tools provides a strong model for future joint efforts.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper