Ghana has repatriated 120 Nigerians rescued during a crackdown on suspected cybercrime networks, amid allegations that they were trafficked into the country and forced to participate in online criminal activities.
The repatriation followed Operation Cyberhunt, an intelligence-led operation targeting suspected cybercrime centres, according to a report by Gists9ja.
Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, announced the development in a post on X on Tuesday, crediting the Ghana Air Force and Ministry of Defence with facilitating the return of the Nigerians.
The operation resulted in the seizure of 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops, four vehicles, internet connectivity devices and other digital equipment believed to be connected to the suspected activities.
The crackdown was conducted by Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority in collaboration with local security and intelligence agencies and international partners, including agencies from Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Authorities said the Nigerians had been trafficked to Ghana and compelled to work in cybercrime operations, raising concerns about the exploitation of people within criminal networks operating across national borders.
George also disclosed that eight other individuals were being processed for prosecution as investigations into the suspected criminal activities continued.
The repatriation highlights the complex relationship between cybercrime and human trafficking, particularly where individuals may be recruited or transported under circumstances that expose them to exploitation.
Ghanaian authorities have vowed to prevent the country from becoming a safe haven for cybercriminals, signalling continued enforcement against suspected online fraud operations.
The circumstances surrounding each returnee, including the extent of their alleged involvement and the individual support they may require, were not detailed in the Gists9ja report.
The operation underscores the need for sustained cross-border cooperation to dismantle cybercrime networks, prosecute those responsible and protect people allegedly forced into criminal activities.
