Summary: Ghana Immigration Service arrests 93 Nigerian nationals in major operation targeting internet fraud network at Accra estate. 73 torture victims rescued and repatriated.
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 93 Nigerian nationals and rescued 73 victims of torture and abuse in a major intelligence-led operation targeting an internet fraud syndicate operating from a residential estate in Accra, Ghana’s capital city.
The operation, which took place at the DEVTRACO Estate, has been described as one of the most significant anti-fraud and human trafficking busts in recent times, as Ghanaian authorities intensify efforts to combat cybercrime networks operating within their borders.
Details of the Raid
According to a press release dated 9th March 2026, immigration officers raided six houses within the estate, uncovering what authorities have described as a sophisticated internet fraud network that held victims against their will.
Of the 93 arrested suspects, 91 are male and 2 are female. All face charges related to alleged involvement in internet fraud and immigration offences.
The operation was spearheaded by Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) Newman Akuffo of the Ghana Immigration Service’s National Operations unit.
Equipment Seized
Officers recovered a substantial haul of equipment believed to have been used to run the fraud scheme, including:
– 82 laptops
– 57 mobile phones
– 17 television sets
– Counterfeit US dollars
– Fake gold bars
Victims Rescued and Repatriated
The 73 rescued victims, who investigators say endured severe torture and abuse at the hands of the suspects, have since been repatriated to Nigeria. The nature and extent of the abuse they suffered remain under investigation as authorities continue their inquiries at the GIS National Headquarters in Accra.
Immigration Violations Uncovered
Preliminary investigations revealed that some of the suspects entered Ghana through unapproved border routes—commonly referred to as “bush paths”—while others overstayed their 90-day visa-free entry period.
This revelation has raised concerns about border security and the ease with which criminal networks exploit legal entry provisions and porous borders to establish operations in foreign countries.
Stern Warning to Foreign Nationals
The Comptroller General of Immigration used the occasion to issue a strong warning to foreign nationals residing in or visiting Ghana.
He referenced the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694), which prohibits recruiting, transporting, or harbouring individuals through force, fraud, or abuse for exploitation. Penalties under this law range from 5 to 20 years imprisonment, with life sentences applicable in cases involving child victims or aggravating factors.
He also cited the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573), which makes entering Ghana via unapproved routes or overstaying a visa a criminal offence. Upon conviction, offenders face fines and imprisonment ranging from 3 months to 2 years.
Growing Pressure on Cybercrime Networks
This operation comes at a time when Ghanaian authorities are facing mounting pressure to clamp down on cybercrime networks, particularly those operating from within residential communities.
Internet fraud, commonly known as “Yahoo Yahoo” in Nigeria, has become a significant concern across West Africa, with syndicates often crossing borders to evade local law enforcement.
The involvement of torture and human trafficking in this case adds a disturbing dimension to the cybercrime landscape, highlighting the increasingly violent and exploitative nature of some fraud operations.
What This Means for Nigerians Abroad
This incident serves as a sobering reminder to Nigerians living or traveling abroad to always respect immigration laws and avoid involvement in illegal activities.
It also underscores the importance of entering foreign countries through approved channels and ensuring compliance with visa regulations to avoid criminal prosecution.
For those who may find themselves victims of human trafficking or abuse abroad, the repatriation of the 73 victims demonstrates that Nigerian and foreign authorities can work together to rescue and bring citizens home.
Investigations Continue
The Ghana Immigration Service has stated that further investigations are ongoing at its National Headquarters in Accra. More details are expected to emerge as authorities work to dismantle the network and bring all those responsible to justice.
This operation marks a significant step in the fight against cybercrime and human trafficking in West Africa, and serves as a warning to criminal syndicates that law enforcement agencies across the region are coordinating efforts to combat these serious offences.
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