THE Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) has intensified its crackdown on criminal networks, particularly those involved in cybercrime, as it pursues over 40 active cases currently before the courts.

The announcement came during the latest monthly National Security Council meeting held last Thursday, where national security officials reviewed efforts to maintain recent gains in the fight against organised crime.

According to updates provided to the council, MOCA has significantly expanded its operational capacity over the past year, focusing on disrupting sophisticated criminal organisations that engage in cyber-fraud, identity theft, and large-scale financial crimes.

These efforts align with the Government’s broader strategy to address emerging threats in the digital domain, which has seen a marked increase in activity since the pandemic era.

In addition to its growing caseload, MOCA’s capabilities have earned international recognition. The agency was recently awarded by the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts (IALEIA) for excellence in intelligence-driven investigations.

The IALEIA, based in the United States, is the leading professional body for law enforcement analysts globally and its awards are regarded as a benchmark for outstanding analytical and investigative performance.

The growing focus on cybercrime comes at a time when Jamaica continues to grapple with rising electronic fraud (e-fraud) cases.

According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), in 2022, a total of 320 cases of e-fraud were reported, with financial losses amounting to over $120 million. The following year, 2023, saw a slight increase to 355 reported cases. However, there was a notable shift in the value of these frauds, which reached approximately $169 million.Authorities note that while the overall number of cyberattacks on Jamaica dropped in early 2024 compared to previous years, the incidents that do occur are becoming more targeted and sophisticated, demanding a more strategic response from law enforcement and security agencies.

At the meeting, the National Security Council commended MOCA’s progress, but stressed the need for continued vigilance and inter-agency collaboration. Officials emphasised that strengthening Jamaica’s defences against cybercrime is essential to maintaining public confidence and protecting the country’s financial infrastructure.