Ghana Arrests 141 Nigerians Over Alleged Cybercrime

Ghanaian authorities have arrested at least 141 Nigerian nationals over their alleged involvement in cyber-enabled financial crimes, including mobile money fraud and business email compromise scams.

The arrests were confirmed on Saturday by Ghana’s Commissioner for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel George, in an official statement.

According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated early-morning operation led by the Cyber Security Authority of Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, National Security, and the Ghana Immigration Service.

The operation was carried out in key locations within Tabora and Lashibi. A total of 100 suspects were arrested in Tabora, while 41 others were picked up in Lashibi, bringing the total number of arrests to 141.

Preliminary investigations indicate that all the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals.

Law enforcement agencies also recovered 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones suspected to have been used in carrying out cyber-related financial crimes.

During the operation, a Ghanaian landlord was arrested for allegedly accommodating about 100 of the suspects in his residence. Authorities warned that landlords have a duty to ensure their properties are not used to facilitate criminal activities.

The suspects are alleged to be involved in offences such as mobile money fraud, romance scams, sextortion, business email compromise, and wire fraud.

“Forensic analysis of the seized devices is ongoing, and individuals found culpable will be processed in accordance with Ghanaian law,” the statement said.

Ghanaian authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious digital activities, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to tackling cybercrime.

“Ghana remains welcoming to all friends and neighbours interested in legitimate enterprise. However, if you are interested in committing cybercrime, we will find you, arrest you, and deal with you decisively according to our laws,” the statement added.