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Ghana Cracks Down on Cybercrime: 53 Nigerians Detained in Major Operation
In a decisive move to combat cybercrime, Ghanaian security forces have apprehended 53 Nigerian nationals suspected of involvement in extensive cybercriminal activities. This large-scale crackdown targeted multiple suspected cybercrime hotspots within the Greater Accra Region, reflecting Ghana’s commitment to securing its digital environment and preserving its global cyber reputation.
Intelligence-Led Raids Uncover Cybercrime Networks
According to Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, the arrests followed intelligence gathered over 48 hours by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA). The information pinpointed several locations in East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija, and Tuba as centers for coordinated cyber offenses.
The intelligence revealed that many young men, predominantly foreign nationals, were being manipulated by criminal masterminds to execute cyber fraud and related offenses from these sites.
Joint Security Task Force Executes Coordinated Raids
On January 16 and 17, 2026, a collaborative task force comprising operatives from National Security Operations, the CSA, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and the Ghana Police Service SWAT Unit conducted simultaneous raids across the identified locations. These operations led to the arrest of nine key suspects believed to be orchestrating the cybercrime syndicate, while 44 others were rescued from exploitation.
Evidence Seized Highlights Sophistication of Cybercrime Ring
Authorities recovered a significant cache of equipment used in cyber offenses, including 62 laptops, 52 mobile phones, and two pump-action firearms. The suspects were found operating from multiple apartments, indicating a highly organized and structured criminal network.
Breakdown of arrests by location includes:
- East Legon Hills: 5 suspects
- Afienya: 11 suspects
- Kwabenya: 10 suspects
- Weija: 10 suspects
- Tuba: 17 suspects
Human Trafficking and Cyber Exploitation Concerns
Among those detained, 44 individuals are believed to be victims of human trafficking and cybercrime exploitation, highlighting the intersection between digital fraud and human rights abuses. These individuals were found working under duress, often lured by false promises of lucrative employment.
Government Response and Future Measures
All detainees have been processed and handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further investigation and custody. Minister George urged foreign nationals to exercise caution against deceptive recruitment tactics and to verify job offers thoroughly before relocating.
He also noted that previous cybercrime suspects had been profiled in collaboration with INTERPOL, with some extradited to Nigeria via the Seme border, while others face prosecution within Ghana.
Protecting Ghana’s Cyber Integrity
Minister George emphasized that safeguarding Ghana’s digital reputation on the international stage remains a top priority. He praised the CSA and law enforcement agencies for their effective collaboration in dismantling this cybercrime network.
As cybercrime continues to evolve globally, Ghana’s proactive approach serves as a model for regional cooperation and enforcement, reinforcing the need for vigilance against digital threats and exploitation.
