The Ghana Police Service has arrested 10 suspects in Tema for their alleged involvement in cyber fraud and human trafficking following an intelligence-led operation by the Tema Regional Police Command.
The operation, according to the police, uncovered a suspected network allegedly recruiting and exploiting foreign nationals to engage in cyber-enabled fraudulent activities.
Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, who disclosed the arrest at a media briefing in Accra on Tuesday, July 21, said preliminary investigations point to Collins Francis Olayi Ojo as the alleged coordinator of the group.
She said Ojo is suspected of trafficking nine Nigerian nationals into Ghana by road and subsequently compelling them to engage in online fraudulent activities under his direction.
“The nine Nigerians have been identified as victims of human trafficking and exploitation,” COP Donkor said.
She added that the victims have been rescued and moved to a safe location where they are receiving protection and further support.
The CID Director-General said the other suspects arrested in connection with the operation are Matthew Balogun, Jahid Bello, Abdul Rahman Nufizi, Talent Sinibi, Prey Morrison Lawal, Abdul Aziz, David Ogogona, Gift Prince and Kingsley Honest.
According to the police, investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the group’s activities and identify any other persons who may be connected to the alleged offences.
COP Donkor said a search conducted at the suspects’ premises led to the recovery of 28 laptop computers and nine mobile phones.
The devices, she said, have been secured by investigators and will undergo digital forensic examination to assist ongoing investigations.
She said the analysis of the electronic devices will form part of efforts to establish the nature of the alleged cyber fraud activities and gather further evidence.
The CID Director-General further disclosed that the alleged mastermind, Collins Francis Olayi Ojo, has been arraigned before the Accra High Court.
She said the court has remanded him into police custody pending the continuation of investigations.
The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to tackling cyber-related crimes and human trafficking through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.