In a significant cross-border security operation, Ghanaian authorities have apprehended 53 Nigerian nationals suspected of involvement in a large-scale cybercrime network. The arrests, which took place over two days, were part of a targeted effort to dismantle organized digital crime hubs in the Greater Accra Region.
Intelligence-Driven Raids Across Multiple Locations
The operation was launched based on intelligence gathered by Ghana's Cyber Security Authority (CSA) within a 48-hour period. This intelligence pinpointed several residential areas allegedly being used as bases for coordinated cybercrime activities. The targeted communities included East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija, and Tuba.
Acting on this information, a joint security task force carried out simultaneous raids on January 16 and 17, 2026. The team comprised operatives from National Security Operations, the CSA, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, and the Ghana Police Service SWAT Unit.
Suspects and Victims Rescued
During the raids, security forces made a critical distinction between alleged masterminds and potential victims. Nine Nigerian nationals were arrested as key suspects believed to be organizers and coordinators of the cybercrime network.
In a revealing twist, another 44 Nigerians were rescued from various apartments. Authorities believe these individuals were victims of human trafficking and cybercrime exploitation, allegedly coerced and exploited by the ringleaders to carry out online crimes.
"The rescued individuals were found operating laptops in multiple apartments, pointing to what authorities described as a well-structured and organized cybercrime syndicate," stated Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George.
Recovered Evidence and Location Breakdown
Searches at the raided locations yielded substantial evidence. Security personnel recovered items suspected to have been used in carrying out cyber offences. The haul included:
- 62 laptops
- 52 mobile phones
- Two pump-action guns
A detailed breakdown of the arrests shows where the suspects were apprehended:
- East Legon Hills: 5 suspects
- Afienya: 11 suspects
- Kwabenya: 10 suspects
- Weija: 10 suspects
- Tuba: 17 suspects
This brings the total number of Nigerians apprehended to 53.
Investigation and International Cooperation
Minister George confirmed that all arrested individuals have been profiled and handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for safekeeping and further investigation. He issued a strong caution to foreign nationals, urging them to be wary of false promises of jobs or quick financial gains that lure them into Ghana under dubious pretenses.
The minister also referenced previous operations, noting that suspects arrested earlier had been profiled by the Ghana Immigration Service in collaboration with INTERPOL. Some have already been handed over to Nigerian authorities at the Seme border, while others are facing prosecution in Ghanaian courts.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, George stated, "Protecting Ghana’s cyber image internationally is non-negotiable." He commended the CSA and the partnering law enforcement agencies for the successful intelligence-driven operation, underscoring the government's commitment to safeguarding the country's cyberspace and its international digital reputation.
