Ghanaian authorities have arrested no fewer than 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 a statement.
According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated early-morning operation carried out by the Cyber Security Authority of Ghana, with support from the Ghana Police Service, National Security and the Ghana Immigration Service.
The operation was conducted in parts of Tabora and Lashibi, where 100 suspects were arrested in Tabora, while 41 others were picked up in Lashibi.
Preliminary findings indicated that all the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals.
Security agencies said 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones, suspected to have been used to perpetrate cyber-related financial crimes, were recovered during the raid.
A Ghanaian landlord, who allegedly accommodated about 100 of the suspects in his residence, was also arrested. The authorities warned landlords to be vigilant and ensure their properties are not used for criminal activities.
The suspects were allegedly linked to offences such as mobile money fraud, romance scams, sextortion, business email compromise and wire fraud.
The statement added that forensic analysis of the seized devices was ongoing and that those found culpable would be prosecuted in line with Ghanaian laws.
The Ghanaian government urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious digital activities, while reaffirming its 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 said.