The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has announced the arrest of 53 Nigerian nationals and the rescue of 44 others following coordinated security operations targeting suspected cybercrime centres in parts of Accra.
The intelligence-led operations, carried out over the past 48 hours, were spearheaded by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) after investigations identified multiple locations where young men were allegedly being trafficked, coerced, and exploited by cybercrime kingpins to engage in illegal online activities.
Targeted Raids Across Five Locations
Acting on the CSA’s intelligence, a joint security task force comprising operatives from National Security Operations, the Cyber Security Authority, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, and the Police SWAT Unit conducted synchronized raids on January 16 and 17, 2026.
The operations targeted suspected cybercrime hubs in East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija, and Tuba.
According to the Minister, 44 of those picked up are believed to be victims of human trafficking and exploitation. They were found operating laptop computers inside various apartments at the time of the raids.
Exhibits Retrieved
Searches conducted at the five locations led to the retrieval of:
- 62 laptop computers
- 52 assorted mobile phones
- Two pump-action guns
In total, 53 Nigerian nationals were arrested, with the breakdown as follows:
- East Legon Hills – 5
- Afienya – 11
- Kwabenya – 10
- Weija – 10
- Tuba – 17
Immigration and INTERPOL Involvement
Mr. George disclosed that all arrested persons have been profiled and handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for safekeeping and further investigations.
He revealed that individuals arrested during similar previous operations were profiled by both the Ghana Immigration Service and INTERPOL, with some extradited to Nigerian authorities through the Seme border, while others are currently facing prosecution before Ghanaian courts.
Minister Issues Warning
The Minister cautioned foreign nationals seeking opportunities in Ghana to verify recruitment claims made by compatriots who may lure them into the country under false pretences.
He stressed that protecting Ghana’s cyber image internationally is non-negotiable, commending the Cyber Security Authority and partner law enforcement agencies for what he described as a successful and timely operation.
By Paqmediagh/Peter Quao Adattor
