Ghanaian authorities has recorded more arrests against cybercrime. In a joint effort, the Cyber Security Authority, police, and immigration teams arrested 141 people suspected of online scams. Most of these suspects are believed to be Nigerians living in Tabora and Lashibi.
They are accused of Mobile Money fraud, romance scams, and Business Email Compromise (BEC). During the raids, the officials seized 38 laptops and 150 phones used in these illegal activities. They also arrested a local landlord who was renting his house to 100 of the suspects, reminding other landlords must ensure their properties are not used for crime.
The announcement was made by Ghana’s Minister of Communication & digital technology Sam George's who is recording multiple arrests as seen in his recent anti-cybercrime push, this follows similar arrests of 48 suspects on December 24 and 32 on December 13.
The minister said;
“ This morning, the @CSAGhana, in collaboration with the @GhPoliceService, National Security, and the @Gha_Immigration, conducted a coordinated early-morning operation targeting organised cybercrime networks involved in Mobile Money (MoMo) fraud and Business Email Compromise (BEC) scams. The intelligence-led operation was carried out across key locations in Tabora and Lashibi.
During the operation, 100 suspects were arrested in Tabora, while 41 suspects were apprehended in Lashibi, resulting in a total of 141 arrests. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals. Law enforcement agencies also recovered 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones, suspected to have been used in the commission of cyber-enabled financial crimes.
The team also arrested the Ghanaian landlord who accommodated 100 of the suspects in his house. Landlords have a duty to ensure that their premises are not used to facilitate or perpetuate crime.
The suspects are alleged to have been involved in several criminal activities, including:
• Mobile Money (MoMo) fraud
• Romance scams
• SXxtortion
• Business Email Compromise (BEC)
• Wire fraud
Forensic analysis of the seized devices is underway, and individuals found to be culpable will be processed in accordance with Ghanaian law.
The public is urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious digital activities, and continue to support national efforts to combat cybercrime.
Ghana remains welcoming to all of our friends and neighbours interested in legitimate enterprise. However, if you are interested in committing a cybercrime, we will find you, arrest you, and deal with you decisively according to our laws.
For God and Country.”
Kudos to the Ghanaian Government. I love this.
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