January 19, 2026 — Dalena Reporters
Accra, Ghana — In a sweeping intelligence-led security operation, Ghanaian authorities have dismantled several suspected cybercrime hubs across the Greater Accra Region, resulting in the arrest of 53 Nigerian nationals, the rescue of dozens of alleged victims and the seizure of laptops, mobile phones and firearms. The crackdown underscores Ghana’s intensified efforts to combat cyber-enabled criminal syndicates operating within its borders.
Announced by Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, the coordinated raids took place on January 16 and 17, 2026, following actionable intelligence gathered by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA). Security forces targeted multiple locations including East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija and Tuba believed to be bases for cybercrime activities.
According to official accounts, the operations involved joint task forces comprising CSA officials, National Security operatives, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters and the National Police SWAT unit. Intelligence indicated that gangs had allegedly been coercing and exploiting young men into committing various forms of online fraud and digital crimes.
During the raids, authorities distinguished between nine suspected kingpins, who were formally arrested as alleged facilitators of criminal activity, and 44 other Nigerians, who were described as rescued victims found in apartments operating laptop computers at the time of the interventions.
Searches of the targeted premises yielded a significant cache of electronic equipment and weapons, including 62 laptop computers, 52 assorted mobile phones and two pump-action guns — suggesting the scale and potential danger posed by the operation of these networks.
The total arrests were reported across the five locations as follows: East Legon Hills (5), Afienya (11), Kwabenya (10), Weija (10) and Tuba (17). All individuals taken into custody have been profiled and handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for safekeeping and further investigative procedures.
Minister George used the announcement to issue a solemn warning to foreign nationals about verifying opportunities and invitations to Ghana, cautioning that some individuals may be lured under false pretences into environments of exploitation and criminality.
Authorities also noted that in previous related operations, individuals had been profiled by the Ghana Immigration Service and INTERPOL before being transferred to Nigerian law enforcement at the Seme border, while others face prosecution in Ghanaian courts.
The CSA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Ghana’s digital space and international reputation, stressing that such security actions are crucial to safeguarding both national interests and the integrity of the country’s cyber ecosystem.
This latest crackdown reflects broader regional concerns over transnational cybercrime and the exploitation of vulnerable populations in illicit online activity. Observers say sustained enforcement and international cooperation will be essential parts of dismantling increasingly sophisticated criminal networks that operate across borders and digital platforms.