Ghanaian law enforcement agencies have arrested nine Nigerian nationals in Accra for their suspected involvement in organised cybercrime, following intelligence provided by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA).
The coordinated security operation also resulted in the rescue of 44 individuals believed to have been coerced into participating in illegal online activities. The suspected cybercrime hubs were uncovered in East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija, and Tuba.
Multi-Agency Raids Yield Devices and Weapons
The arrests took place during January 16 and 17 raids conducted by a joint task force involving National Security Operations, the CSA, the Criminal Investigations Department, and the National Police SWAT unit.
Items recovered during the raids included:
- 62 laptop computers
- 52 mobile phones
- Two pump-action firearms
Authorities confirmed that investigations into the suspects’ activities are ongoing.
Rescued Individuals Transferred to Immigration Authorities
Security officials disclosed that the rescued individuals have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further screening and assistance.
Investigators said many of the victims were deceived with offers of employment, only to be confined in residential apartments where their passports and personal documents were confiscated.
Forced Participation in Online Fraud Schemes
According to authorities, the suspects allegedly compelled victims to engage in multiple forms of internet fraud, including:
- Romance-related scams
- Business Email Compromise (BEC) fraud
Such schemes typically involve manipulating unsuspecting victims into transferring money or revealing sensitive personal and financial information.
Minister Issues Caution to Foreign Job Seekers
Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Sam George, warned foreign nationals to exercise caution and properly verify employment offers before travelling to the country.
He noted that cybercrime networks increasingly target vulnerable young people with fake job opportunities that later turn into exploitative scam operations.
Arrests Linked to Wider Anti-Cybercrime Drive
The latest arrests are part of Ghana’s broader campaign to combat cybercrime and safeguard its international digital reputation.
In earlier cases, authorities arrested notable cybercrime figures such as Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, who was accused of defrauding foreign victims of millions of dollars.
While some suspects in past operations have been extradited to Nigeria through the Seme border, others are currently being prosecuted in Ghanaian courts.
Ghana Emphasises Cybersecurity and Cross-Border Collaboration
Officials reiterated that protecting Ghana’s cyber standing remains a national priority, stressing that online fraud undermines trust in the country’s growing digital economy.
The CSA-led operation underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration and international cooperation in addressing cybercrime networks operating across the West African region.
Strong Warning to Cybercriminals and Job Seekers
Authorities said the operation sends a clear message to cybercrime syndicates while also serving as a caution to job seekers to conduct proper due diligence.
The government reaffirmed its resolve to keep Ghana a secure destination for legitimate digital business, while intensifying efforts to dismantle cybercrime networks and protect vulnerable individuals.
