Ghanaian authorities have arrested 53 Nigerian nationals following a major intelligence-led operation targeting suspected cybercrime hubs across several communities in the Greater Accra Region.
The arrests were confirmed on Sunday, January 19, 2026, by Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, who said the operation was aimed at protecting Ghana’s cyberspace and safeguarding its international digital reputation.
According to the minister, intelligence gathered by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) over a 48-hour period uncovered multiple locations allegedly being used for organised cybercrime activities in East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija and Tuba.
The intelligence revealed that young men—mostly foreign nationals—were allegedly being exploited, coerced and forced by suspected kingpins to engage in cybercrime operations at the identified locations.
Acting on the CSA-led intelligence, a joint security task force comprising National Security Operations, the Cyber Security Authority, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and the Ghana Police Service SWAT Unit carried out simultaneous raids on January 16 and 17, 2026.
During the operation, nine Nigerian nationals were arrested as principal suspects believed to be coordinating the cybercrime network. Another 44 Nigerians, said to be victims of human trafficking and cybercrime exploitation, were rescued from various apartments.
The rescued individuals were reportedly found operating laptop computers, indicating a well-structured and organised cybercrime network across the affected communities.
Searches conducted at the locations led to the recovery of 52 mobile phones, 62 laptop computers and two pump-action guns, all suspected to be linked to cyber-related offences.
A breakdown of the arrests shows that five suspects were arrested in East Legon Hills, 11 in Afienya, 10 in Kwabenya, 10 in Weija and 17 in Tuba, bringing the total number of arrests to 53.
Samuel Nartey George said all suspects have been profiled and handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for safekeeping and further investigations. He also cautioned foreign nationals against being lured into Ghana under false promises of jobs or quick financial gains.
The minister disclosed that suspects arrested in previous similar operations have been profiled in collaboration with INTERPOL and handed over to Nigerian law enforcement authorities at the Seme border, while others are currently facing prosecution in Ghanaian courts.
“Protecting Ghana’s cyber image internationally is non-negotiable,” he said, commending the Cyber Security Authority and partner law enforcement agencies for the successful operation.