The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has deported 32 West African nationals suspected of involvement in cybercrime and romance scams following joint security operations in the Volta Region.
The group, made up of 24 Nigerians and eight Togolese, was arrested during two coordinated intelligence-led raids conducted in Akatsi and Ho on Wednesday. The operations were carried out jointly by the GIS, the Ghana Police Service, and National Security.
According to a statement issued by the GIS Public Affairs Department and signed by Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCI) Maud Anima Quainoo, investigations revealed that the suspects entered Ghana through unapproved routes and were coerced into cyber fraud activities by criminal syndicates that had initially lured them with fake job offers.
The individuals, aged between 18 and 35, were reportedly contacted via social media platforms and deceived into believing they were being recruited for legitimate employment. The GIS said they were treated as victims of human trafficking and subsequently repatriated to their home countries.
During the operation, security officials retrieved several items, including 33 mobile phones, three power banks, a Toyota Corolla car key, three type-C chargers, and one ear pod.
The statement added that further investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the masterminds behind the criminal network.
As part of Cyber Security Awareness Month, the GIS cautioned the public—especially young people—to be vigilant against fraudulent online recruitment and trafficking schemes.
The Service also urged citizens to report suspicious activities, particularly residences housing large numbers of foreign nationals, to the nearest Immigration Office to support national security efforts.
Additionally, the GIS advised landlords and property owners to verify the identities of foreign tenants before renting out properties, reminding the public that harbouring illegal migrants constitutes an offence under Section 52 (1)(b) of the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573).
The Ghana Immigration Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Ghana’s borders, combating transnational crime, and ensuring the strict enforcement of immigration laws across the country.
