Ghana Immigration Service Conducts Major Anti-Fraud Operation in Accra
The Ghana Immigration Service has executed a significant intelligence-led operation resulting in the arrest of 93 Nigerian nationals and the rescue of 73 victims who had suffered severe torture and abuse. This major anti-fraud raid targeted a residential estate in Accra, uncovering what authorities describe as a sophisticated criminal network.
Details of the Operation and Arrests
According to a press release dated 9th March 2026, immigration officers raided six houses within the DEVTRACO Estate in Accra. The operation revealed an extensive internet fraud scheme that had been holding victims against their will in deplorable conditions. Of the 93 individuals arrested, 91 are male and 2 are female. All face serious charges related to alleged involvement in internet fraud and various immigration offenses.
The operation was led by Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) Newman Akuffo of the Ghana Immigration Service's National Operations unit. During the raid, officers recovered substantial evidence including 82 laptops, 57 mobile phones, 17 television sets, counterfeit US dollars, and fake gold bars believed to have been used in the fraudulent activities.
Rescue and Repatriation of Victims
The 73 rescued victims, who investigators confirm endured severe torture and abuse at the hands of the suspects, have since been safely repatriated to Nigeria. Preliminary investigations indicate that some of the suspects entered Ghana through unapproved border routes, while others had overstayed their 90-day visa-free entry period granted to Nigerian citizens.
Further investigations are continuing at the Ghana Immigration Service's National Headquarters in Accra. The operation represents one of the more significant anti-fraud and human trafficking busts in recent memory, coming as Ghanaian authorities face increasing pressure to clamp down on cyber fraud networks operating from within residential communities.
Legal Warnings and Penalties
The Comptroller General of Immigration used this occasion to issue a stern warning to foreign nationals in Ghana. He emphasized that The Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694) strictly prohibits recruiting, transporting, or harboring individuals through force, fraud, or abuse for exploitation purposes. Penalties under this act range from 5 to 20 years imprisonment, with life sentences applicable where child victims or aggravating factors are involved.
Additionally, The Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573) makes entering Ghana via unapproved routes or overstaying a visa a criminal offense. Convictions under this act carry penalties including fines and imprisonment ranging from 3 months to 2 years.
This operation highlights the Ghana Immigration Service's commitment to combating organized crime and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation. Authorities have vowed to continue their efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating within the country's borders.
