The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has arrested five suspects for allegedly trafficking fifty-seven (57) Nigerian nationals into the country.
The suspects — identified as Joel Nosa, Collins Rotimi, Shadrack Lulu, Austin Amahuaro, and John Uloko — were apprehended at Adom Estates, Community 25, in an intelligence-led operation conducted by the CID’s Operations Unit.
According to a police statement signed by Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, Public Relations Officer of the Criminal Investigation Department, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects run a human trafficking network that lures young Nigerians to Ghana under the pretext of providing them with employment and educational opportunities.
“Upon arrival, the victims, aged between 18 and 26 years, were coerced into engaging in online romance scams and other illicit activities,” the statement disclosed.
During the operation, police retrieved seventy-seven (77) assorted laptops, thirty-eight (38) mobile phones, two (2) vehicles, three (3) television sets, and other internet-enabled devices suspected to have been used in committing the crimes.
All fifty-seven (57) rescued victims are currently receiving the necessary care and support, while the suspects remain in police custody assisting with investigations. The retrieved exhibits have been retained for forensic examination.
Chief Inspector Babanawo further cautioned the public, especially the youth, to be wary of job, educational, or travel offers made through social media and unverified sources.
“The Ghana Police Service remains resolute in its commitment to fighting human trafficking, cybercrime, and related offenses. We encourage anyone with credible information on such criminal activities to report to the nearest police station,” the statement concluded.
