The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has rescued 73 victims and arrested 93 Nigerian nationals during a major anti-fraud operation targeting suspected internet crime networks operating in Accra.

The intelligence-led operation took place at Devtraco Estate, where authorities apprehended 91 men and two women believed to be involved in internet fraud and immigration-related offences.

Intelligence-led operation

According to a press release issued on March 9, 2026, by the Public Affairs Department of the GIS, the operation was led by Newman Akuffo, a Deputy Superintendent of Immigration from the Service’s National Operations Unit.

Immigration officers raided six houses within the estate during the operation. Investigators said some of the victims had allegedly been subjected to severe torture and abuse by the suspects.

Items seized during the raid

During the raid, authorities confiscated several items believed to have been used in the suspected criminal activities. These included:

• Counterfeit US dollar notes
• Fake gold bars
• 82 laptop computers
• 57 mobile phones
• 17 television sets
• Various household appliances

Officials believe the equipment may have been used to facilitate internet-based fraud schemes.

Immigration violations uncovered

Preliminary investigations by the Ghana Immigration Service revealed that some of the suspects allegedly entered Ghana through unapproved routes, while others had overstayed the 90-day visa-free period permitted for nationals of member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Authorities confirmed that further investigations are ongoing at the GIS National Headquarters to determine the full scope of the suspected criminal network.

Victims repatriated

The Service also stated that the 73 victims rescued during the operation have been repatriated to Nigeria.

In the statement, the Comptroller-General of Immigration urged foreign nationals living in Ghana to respect and comply with the country’s laws.

Legal consequences highlighted

The statement reminded the public that the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 prohibits recruiting, transporting or harbouring individuals through force, fraud or abuse for exploitation.

Offenders convicted under the law face prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years, while cases involving children or aggravating circumstances may attract life imprisonment.

Authorities also cited provisions under the Immigration Act, 2000, which criminalises entering Ghana through unauthorised routes or overstaying visas, with penalties including fines or prison terms of three months to two years.

The Ghana Immigration Service said it will continue intensifying operations aimed at tackling immigration-related crimes and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.