Nine arrested, 44 rescued in cybercrime operation

An intelligence-led joint operation involving a team of security agencies has led to the arrest of nine persons for alleged cybercrime activities.

The operation was carried out by the Cyber Security Authority, National Security operatives, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team of the Ghana Police Service.

The operation also resulted in the rescue of 44 persons suspected to be victims of the criminal enterprise at various locations in Accra, including East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija and Tuba.

A statement posted on the Facebook page of Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, said intelligence gathered indicated that some young men were being exploited and coerced by kingpins to engage in cybercrime activities.

It said the victims were found in their respective apartments operating laptop computers.

Searches conducted in the apartments led to the retrieval of 52 assorted mobile phones, 62 laptop computers and two pump-action guns.

In all, 53 Nigerians were arrested during the operation and have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further investigations.

The Minister cautioned foreigners invited to Ghana to independently verify claims made by their fellow nationals to avoid being lured into criminal activities.