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Ghana Repatriates 120 Nigerians Rescued From Suspected Cybercrime Centres
Ghana has sent 120 Nigerians back home after an operation uncovered suspected cybercrime and alleged human trafficking. Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George announced the repatriation.
Operation Cyberhunt
Security agencies and international partners joined forces in the exercise, Operation Cyberhunt. The Cyber Security Authority led the operation. In addition, it worked with local security and intelligence agencies and with counterparts in the United Kingdom, Nigeria and the United States.
Victims allegedly forced to work
Mr George alleged that suspected criminal networks forced the individuals to work in cybercrime operations after bringing them to Ghana. He also thanked the Ghana Air Force and the Ministry of Defence for supporting their return.
Equipment, vehicles and passports seized
Moreover, the operation uncovered a large cache of electronic equipment. It included 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops and internet connectivity devices. Authorities also seized four vehicles. One of them reportedly came from a theft in Canada. Finally, investigators recovered jewellery and 10 Nigerian passports.
Eight to face prosecution
Meanwhile, the minister said officials are processing eight other people for prosecution. However, he did not say what offences they could face.
“Unfavourable destination” for cybercriminals
Mr George said the exercise supports the government’s efforts to disrupt cybercrime networks. He added that the government wants to stop Ghana from becoming a base for criminal activity.
“Ghana under President John Dramani Mahama will remain an unfavourable destination for cyber criminals,” he said.
The operation also highlights the link between cybercrime and human trafficking. Authorities are seeking to dismantle the suspected networks and to address the alleged exploitation of the people they recruited.
Investigations are continuing. However, the minister has not publicly named those repatriated. He also has not described what activities they allegedly had to carry out.