The Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) has successfully rescued more than 200 foreigners and apprehended 35 individuals suspected of human trafficking in a significant operation aimed at dismantling a syndicate accused of exploiting its victims. Authorities report that the victims were lured to the country under false pretenses, with promises of legitimate job opportunities. However, upon arrival, they were forced into participating in cyber fraud, online scams, and other illegal activities.
The Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, conducted a series of coordinated raids in suspected hideouts across multiple regions. These operations led to the rescue of several victims and the arrest of multiple suspected traffickers and handlers. Preliminary investigations indicate that a well-organised criminal network is behind the trafficking, using social media and recruitment agencies to lure unsuspecting victims. Authorities are currently working to dismantle this network and ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice.
Acting Executive Director of EOCO, Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah, addressing the media, said: “The operation was successful, and 219 people were arrested at Oyarifa. The victims were lured into the country by the suspects, ostensibly to give them lucrative jobs in Ghana. Unfortunately, when they came to Ghana, there were no lucrative jobs. They were taken hostage, confined at the Oyarifa estates, and then forced to engage in cybercrime and cybercrime-related activities.”
He added that 11 of the victims were minors, 7 were females, and 212 were males. Thirty-five of those arrested were identified as suspects. “A number of laptops, phones, internet devices, personal effects, and food items were retrieved from them and brought to the office to assist with investigations,” he added.
A victim, while narrating his ordeal to the media, said: “I came to Ghana because of the difficult conditions back home. I wasn’t clearly informed about what I would be doing here, just that I would be staying with my boss. But after arriving, I discovered that my boss was involved in fraud. I didn’t have any other options, especially since we weren’t allowed to go outside and were kept indoors all the time. I’ve been in Ghana for a year now. I always pray to God to come to our rescue. An opportunity like this is what I have been praying for.”
EOCO has assured the public that the rescued individuals are receiving the necessary care and support, including shelter, medical attention, and counselling, while arrangements are being made for their safe return to their home countries.
Source: Ghana/StarrFM 103.5FM/Prince Essien
