Ghana Immigration Service Arrests 93 Nigerians in Major Accra Raid
In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 93 Nigerian nationals accused of involvement in internet fraud and immigration violations.
The operation, conducted at the Devtraco Estate in Accra, also resulted in the rescue of 73 victims who had allegedly suffered severe abuse and torture. The arrests highlight ongoing efforts to dismantle cross-border criminal networks in West Africa.
The raid, led by Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Newman Akuffo from the GIS National Operations unit, targeted six houses within the estate. Authorities described the setup as a sophisticated internet fraud operation where victims were held against their will.
Among the arrested suspects, 91 are males and two are females, all facing charges related to fraud and immigration offenses. Some suspects reportedly entered Ghana through unauthorized borders, while others overstayed the 90 day visa-free period for ECOWAS citizens.
The rescued victims, who have since been repatriated to Nigeria, were subjected to harsh conditions, according to GIS statements. This aspect of the operation underscores the human trafficking elements intertwined with cyber fraud activities. GIS spokesperson Maud Anima Quainoo emphasized in a press release dated March 9, 2026, that investigations are ongoing at the service’s headquarters to uncover the full extent of the network.
During the raid, authorities seized a range of items indicative of fraudulent operations, including 82 laptops, 57 mobile phones, 17 television sets, counterfeit US dollar notes, and fake gold bars, along with various household appliances. These recoveries suggest a well equipped syndicate preying on vulnerable individuals.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of arrests targeting Nigerian nationals in Ghana for similar crimes. In January 2026, Ghanaian police arrested 53 Nigerians involved in cybercrime and rescued 44 victims. Separate operations in December 2025 led to the arrest of about 78 others. The recurring raids raise concerns about the effectiveness of regional border controls within ECOWAS and the need for stronger bilateral cooperation between Ghana and Nigeria to combat such transnational crimes.
The GIS has urged all foreign nationals in Ghana to adhere to immigration laws and warned against engaging in criminal activities. As investigations continue, this operation serves as a reminder of the persistent challenge posed by internet fraud in the region, affecting both local security and international relations.
