The Ghana Police Service has arrested five suspects and rescued fifty-seven (57) Nigerian nationals from a human trafficking and cybercrime syndicate in Accra.
According to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the suspects — identified as Joel Nosa, Collins Rotimi, Shadrack Lulu, Austin Amahuaro, and John Uloko — were arrested during an intelligence-led operation at Adom Estates, Community 25.
Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, Public Relations Officer at the CID, said in a statement on Wednesday, “Preliminary investigations have established that the suspects operated a human trafficking network responsible for luring and transporting young men and women from Nigeria to Ghana under the guise of securing them employment and educational opportunities.”
She explained that the victims, aged between 18 and 26, were coerced into engaging in online romance scams and other criminal activities. Police also retrieved seventy-seven laptops, thirty-eight mobile phones, two vehicles, and other internet-enabled devices suspected to have been used in the crimes.
“All fifty-seven rescued victims are currently receiving the necessary care and support, while the suspects remain in police custody assisting with investigations,” Chief Inspector Babanawo added.
The Police further cautioned the public, particularly the youth, to be vigilant about job or travel offers made through social media or unverified sources. “We remain committed to combating human trafficking, cybercrime, and related offenses, and urge anyone with credible information on such activities to report to the nearest police station,” the statement concluded.
