The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 93 Nigerian nationals and rescued 73 victims during a major operation targeting suspected internet fraud activities in Accra.
The intelligence-driven exercise took place at the Devtraco Estate, where immigration officers raided several houses believed to be linked to a network involved in online scams and other immigration-related offences.
In a statement issued on March 9, 2026, the Public Affairs Department of the Service said the operation was coordinated by Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Newman Akuffo of the GIS National Operations Unit.
During the raid, officers apprehended 91 men and two women, all Nigerian nationals, suspected of participating in internet-based fraud schemes and breaching Ghana’s immigration laws.
Investigators searched six houses within the estate and reported that some individuals rescued from the premises had allegedly been subjected to serious abuse and torture by the suspects.
Authorities also retrieved several items believed to have been used in the suspected criminal activities. The confiscated materials included counterfeit US dollar notes, imitation gold bars, 82 laptop computers, 57 mobile phones, and 17 television sets, along with other electronic and household items.
Preliminary investigations suggest that some of the suspects entered Ghana through unauthorised routes, while others are believed to have remained in the country beyond the 90-day visa-free period permitted for citizens of member states of the Economic Community of West African States.
The Service indicated that further investigations are underway at the GIS National Headquarters to uncover the full scope of the alleged fraud network.
Meanwhile, the 73 victims rescued during the operation have been returned to Nigeria.
The Service also used the opportunity to remind foreign nationals living in Ghana to respect and comply with the country’s laws.
Officials pointed out that the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 criminalises the recruitment, transportation or harbouring of persons through force, deception or abuse for the purpose of exploitation. Convictions under the law carry prison terms ranging from five to 20 years, while more serious cases may attract life imprisonment.
The statement further emphasised that under the Immigration Act, 2000, entering the country through unapproved routes or overstaying a visa is a criminal offence punishable by fines or imprisonment of between three months and two years.
The Ghana Immigration Service said it would intensify its enforcement operations to combat immigration-related crimes and safeguard vulnerable people from exploitation.
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Read the full statement below:
