Ghana has repatriated 120 Nigerian nationals rescued during an intelligence-led operation targeting suspected cybercrime networks and human trafficking activities in the country.
Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, announced the development on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, following a joint operation involving security agencies from Ghana, Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States.
The operation, codenamed Operation Cyberhunt, was led by Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority in collaboration with local security agencies and international partners.
According to George, the 120 Nigerians had allegedly been trafficked to Ghana and forced to participate in cybercrime activities.
He expressed appreciation to the Ghana Air Force and the Ministry of Defence for facilitating their return to Nigeria.
136 Mobile Phones, 130 Laptops Seized
During the operation, security operatives seized 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops, internet connectivity devices, four motor vehicles and other digital equipment suspected of being linked to the activities under investigation.
One of the vehicles was reportedly stolen from Canada.
Investigators also recovered valuable jewellery and 10 Nigerian passports during searches conducted as part of the operation.
George disclosed that eight other individuals were being processed for prosecution as investigations continued.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to tackling cybercrime and preventing the country from becoming a safe haven for criminal networks.
The minister said Ghana, under President John Dramani Mahama, would remain an unfavourable destination for cybercriminals.
READ ALSO:Â Xenophobia: 66 More Nigerians Return From South Africa
International Agencies Collaborate Against Cybercrime
The operation highlights growing international cooperation to disrupt cybercrime networks operating across West Africa.
In a related development, the United States Department of Justice announced on October 13 that a coordinated enforcement operation targeting online scam networks in West Africa had resulted in 28 arrests, including 19 individuals arrested in Ghana and nine in Nigeria.
The operation also led to the seizure of hundreds of electronic devices and the identification of 117 suspected human trafficking victims in Ghana who were awaiting repatriation to Nigeria.
Authorities said the coordinated effort involved law enforcement agencies and technology companies working to disrupt online fraud networks and protect victims.
Concerns Over Human Trafficking and Cybercrime
The rescue of the 120 Nigerians has drawn attention to the connection between human trafficking and organised cybercrime.
According to Ghanaian authorities, the individuals were trafficked and compelled to work in cybercrime operations.
The development raises concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable people who may be recruited or transported across borders and forced to participate in illegal activities.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the identities of the 120 Nigerians or provided detailed accounts of their individual circumstances.
The investigation is continuing, with eight other individuals reportedly being processed for prosecution.
The operation underscores the importance of cooperation among African countries and international partners in combating cybercrime, identifying trafficking victims and bringing suspected offenders to justice.