Ghana has repatriated 120 Nigerian nationals rescued during a crackdown on cybercrime after authorities alleged that they had been trafficked into the country and compelled to participate in online criminal activities.
The operation, code-named Operation Cyberhunt, also resulted in the seizure of 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops, four vehicles and other equipment suspected to have been used in cyber-related offences.
Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, announced the development in a post on X on Tuesday, expressing appreciation to the country’s military authorities for facilitating the return of the Nigerian nationals.
George said the operation was coordinated by Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority in collaboration with intelligence and security agencies from Ghana, Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States.
According to the minister, the exercise led to the rescue of Nigerians who were allegedly trafficked to Ghana and forced to work in facilities linked to cybercrime.
He wrote, “My sincere gratitude goes to the #ghana_airforce and the #modghana for facilitating the repatriation of 120 Nigerian nationals who were arrested during #OperationCyberhunt.”
The minister disclosed that security operatives recovered several items during the operation, including internet connectivity devices, valuable jewellery and 10 Nigerian passports.
Four vehicles were also seized, with one reportedly identified as having been stolen from Canada.
George further revealed that eight other individuals were undergoing prosecution procedures as investigations into the alleged criminal network continued.
The operation forms part of Ghana’s efforts to combat cybercrime and dismantle criminal networks suspected of exploiting vulnerable individuals for illegal online activities.
The minister stressed that the government of President John Dramani Mahama would not permit the country to become a refuge for individuals involved in cybercrime.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to tackling cyber-related offences and strengthening cooperation with international partners to address criminal activities that cross national borders.
The repatriation of the 120 Nigerians followed the joint security operation, although further details about their identities, the circumstances of their alleged trafficking and the next steps for the rescued individuals were not provided in the minister’s announcement.
