Ghana has repatriated 120 Nigerian nationals rescued during an intelligence-led operation targeting suspected cybercrime networks and alleged human trafficking activities, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, has announced.
The operation, known as Operation Cyberhunt, was led by Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA), working with local security agencies and international partners from Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, October 13, the minister expressed gratitude to the Ghana Air Force and the Ministry of Defence for facilitating the return of the Nigerian nationals.
According to the minister, the individuals had allegedly been trafficked to Ghana and forced to participate in cybercrime activities.
Laptops, phones and vehicles recovered
The operation resulted in the recovery of a substantial quantity of electronic equipment and other items suspected to be connected to the alleged criminal activities.
Items seized included 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops, internet connectivity devices and four motor vehicles. One of the vehicles was reportedly stolen from Canada.
Investigators also recovered jewellery, 10 Nigerian passports and other digital equipment during the searches.
The seizures are expected to support ongoing investigations into the suspected cybercrime operations and the circumstances surrounding the recruitment and exploitation of the affected individuals.
Eight individuals face possible prosecution
Authorities are also processing eight other individuals for prosecution in connection with the operation, according to the account provided by the minister.
The development highlights the complex relationship between cybercrime and human trafficking, in which people may allegedly be recruited, transported or coerced into participating in online fraud schemes.
The circumstances and potential criminal responsibility of individual suspects remain matters for investigation and due process.
Ghana strengthens international cooperation
Operation Cyberhunt involved cooperation among Ghanaian security and intelligence agencies and counterparts in other countries.
Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority has previously emphasised that the operation was planned and coordinated by Ghanaian authorities, with international partners providing support.
The operation is part of broader efforts to disrupt organised cybercrime, protect people vulnerable to exploitation and strengthen cross-border investigations.
Under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, the Ghanaian government has reiterated its commitment to preventing the country from becoming a safe haven for cybercriminal networks.
The repatriation of the 120 Nigerians marks a significant development in the operation, while investigations into the suspects and the recovered equipment continue.
