Ghanaian authorities arrested nine Nigerians in Accra over the weekend, suspected of orchestrating cyber-crime networks. The operation, conducted by Ghana's security forces, targeted makeshift offices used for illicit activities. Forty-four individuals, believed to be victims of trafficking from Nigeria, were also detained.

The two-day intelligence-led operation resulted in the seizure of 62 laptops, 52 mobile phones, and two pump-action guns. Raids occurred in and around Accra. The Cyber Security Authority released images of the suspects and confiscated equipment.

This crackdown follows a growing trend of foreigners being lured to Ghana with promises of high-paying jobs, only to be forced into cyber-crime. Victims often have their documents seized and are confined to gated compounds. They are then compelled to engage in romance scams, where victims are manipulated into sending money to fake partners, or business email compromise (BEC), a type of fraud where criminals impersonate legitimate employees to steal funds or sensitive data. BEC attacks can have devastating financial consequences for businesses.

Ghanaian authorities are handing over the 44 victims to immigration officials. The nine suspects will face prosecution in Ghana. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the cyber-crime network and identify other potential victims.