At least 141 Nigerian citizens have been arrested in Ghana for their alleged involvement in cyber financial crimes, including mobile money fraud and business email compromise scams.
This was revealed by Ghana’s Commissioner for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel George, in a statement on Saturday.
The statement said the arrests came after a coordinated early morning operation carried out by the Ghana Cyber ​​Security Authority in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, National Security and the Ghana Immigration Service.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out in key locations in Tabora and Lashibi.
He revealed that 100 suspects were arrested in Tabora, while another 41 were arrested in Lashibi, bringing the total number of arrests to 141.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals.
Law enforcement agencies also recovered 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones suspected of having been used to perpetrate cyber-related financial crimes.
During the operation, a Ghanaian landlord who allegedly housed around 100 suspects in his home was also arrested.
Authorities warned that property owners have a responsibility to ensure their properties are not used to facilitate criminal activity.
The suspects were allegedly involved in crimes including mobile money fraud, romance scams, sextortion, commercial email breaches and wire fraud.
“Forensic analysis of the seized devices is underway and the individuals found guilty will be prosecuted in accordance with Ghanaian law,” the statement said.
Ghanaian authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious digital activity, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to combating cybercrime.
“Ghana continues to welcome all friends and neighbors interested in legitimate businesses. However, if you are interested in committing cybercrime, we will find you, arrest you and deal decisively with you in accordance with our laws,” the statement added.