Ghana arrests 93 Nigerians over alleged cybercrime and immigration violations in Accra, while 73 Nigerians are rescued from suspected human trafficking
The Ghana Immigration Service has arrested 93 Nigerians over alleged cybercrime and human trafficking activities in Accra while rescuing 73 other Nigerians who were reportedly subjected to torture and abuse.
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Authorities said the arrests followed coordinated operations carried out in six residential buildings at the DEVTRACO Estate in the Ghanaian capital, targeting a suspected criminal network linked to internet fraud and unlawful detention of individuals.
According to officials, those arrested include 91 men and two women who are facing charges related to cybercrime and immigration violations. The 73 victims rescued during the operation have since been repatriated to Nigeria.
Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Newman Akuffo, who led the operation under the Ghana Immigration Service National Operations Unit, said officers recovered a significant quantity of electronic devices and suspected fraudulent materials.
Among the items seized were 82 laptops, 57 mobile phones, 17 television sets, counterfeit United States dollars and fake gold bars believed to have been used in online scams.
“The operation demonstrates our commitment to rooting out criminal networks exploiting our communities,” Newman Akuffo said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that several suspects had entered Ghana through unauthorised border routes, while others reportedly overstayed the 90-day visa-free entry granted to Nigerian nationals.
Officials warned that individuals found guilty of trafficking offences could face prosecution under Ghana Human Trafficking Act 2005, which criminalises the recruitment, transportation or harbouring of individuals for exploitation through force, fraud or abuse.
Under the legislation, offenders may face prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years, while cases involving children or aggravating circumstances could attract life imprisonment.
Authorities also noted that violations of Ghana’s immigration regulations, including illegal entry or overstaying, may lead to fines or custodial sentences of between three months and two years.
The large-scale enforcement action is being described by officials as one of the most significant interventions in recent years aimed at dismantling cybercrime networks operating within residential communities.
The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Nigerian nationals abroad following other recent incidents.
Earlier this week, 42 Nigerians were reportedly detained at a spare parts market in Mozambique, prompting criticism from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission.
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Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri‑Erewa, described the Mozambique detentions as disturbing, noting that no formal charges had reportedly been brought against the individuals involved.
