Accra | Security agencies in Ghana have carried out a major operation against organised cybercrime, arresting nine Nigerian nationals from multiple locations in and around the capital, Accra. Officials said the suspects were allegedly operating coordinated cybercrime activities from makeshift offices and residential compounds.
The intelligence-led operation, spread over two days, led to the seizure of 62 laptop computers, 52 mobile phones, and two pump-action firearms. Authorities said the arrested individuals were involved in various forms of online fraud targeting victims across borders.
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44 Individuals Identified as Victims
During the raids, security personnel also detained 44 other individuals who were later identified as victims rather than suspects. According to officials, these individuals had been brought to Ghana from Nigeria under false promises of lucrative employment.
Investigators said the victims were confined in gated facilities, had their travel documents confiscated, and were allegedly forced to participate in cybercrime operations. All 44 individuals have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for protection and further assessment.
Romance Scams and Email Fraud Under Probe
Authorities said the network primarily focused on two major forms of cybercrime. The first involved romance scams, in which victims were manipulated into sending money to fictitious online partners. The second was business email compromise, where fraudsters impersonated company officials or employers to extract funds or sensitive financial information.
Officials noted that both methods have seen a sharp rise globally and are often operated through transnational networks.
Multi-Agency Operation
The crackdown was conducted through coordinated efforts involving multiple state agencies, with the Cyber Security Authority playing a central role. Authorities said heightened surveillance and enforcement have been prioritised following a surge in cybercrime cases linked to foreign-led networks.
The Ghanaian government has repeatedly stated that it will not allow the country to be used as a base for international cybercrime operations.
Government Issues Advisory
Ghana’s Communications Minister Sam George said all arrested individuals had been profiled and placed in secure custody pending further investigation. He also cautioned foreign nationals to independently verify employment offers or business opportunities before travelling to Ghana.
Officials confirmed that suspects arrested in similar recent operations have either been handed over to Nigerian law enforcement agencies or are currently facing prosecution within Ghana.
Previous High-Profile Arrests
The latest action follows a series of high-profile crackdowns on cybercrime syndicates operating in the region. In recent years, authorities have dismantled networks accused of defrauding hundreds of victims of millions of dollars.
Security agencies said international cooperation, particularly with US law enforcement bodies, has played a key role in identifying and targeting major cybercrime operators.
Ghanaian authorities said the operation is part of a broader, long-term strategy to safeguard digital infrastructure, protect victims, and preserve the country’s international credibility amid growing global concern over cyber-enabled crimes.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
