A joint security operation led by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has resulted in the arrest of 141 suspected cybercriminals involved in Mobile Money (MoMo) fraud and other cyber-enabled financial crimes.
The intelligence led operation, conducted early Friday morning, was carried out in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, National Security, and the Ghana Immigration Service.
It targeted organised cybercrime networks operating in the Tabora and Lashibi areas of Accra.
In a statement posted on Facebook by Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George on Saturday, December 27, 100 suspects were arrested in Tabora, while 41 others were apprehended in Lashibi.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals.
During the operation, security agencies retrieved 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones, which are suspected to have been used in committing cyber-enabled financial crimes.
A Ghanaian landlord who allegedly accommodated 100 of the suspects in his residence was also arrested.
The suspects are alleged to have been involved in a range of criminal activities, including Mobile Money fraud, romance scams, sextortion, Business Email Compromise (BEC), and wire fraud.
The Minister stressed that landlords have a responsibility to ensure their properties are not used to facilitate criminal activities, warning that those who fail to exercise due diligence will be held accountable under the law.
He further indicated that forensic analysis of the seized electronic devices is currently underway, and individuals found culpable will be processed in accordance with Ghanaian law.
Mr George urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious digital activities, emphasizing the government’s commitment to tackling cybercrime.
“Ghana remains welcoming to all friends and neighbours engaged in legitimate enterprise,” the Minister stated, adding that individuals who come into the country to commit cybercrime will be “found, arrested, and dealt with decisively according to our laws.”
