93 Nigerians Arrested for Internet Fraud and Immigration Offences in Accra
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 93 Nigerian nationals for alleged involvement in internet fraud and immigration-related offences following a major intelligence-led operation in Accra.
The suspects, made up of 91 males and two females, were arrested during a raid on six houses at the Devtraco Estate.
The operation, led by Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Newman Akuffo from the National Operations Unit of the GIS, also led to the rescue of 73 victims who had reportedly been subjected to severe torture and abuse by the suspects.
According to a press release issued by the Public Affairs Department of the Ghana Immigration Service, items retrieved during the operation included counterfeit US dollars, fake gold bars, 82 laptops, 57 mobile phones, and 17 television sets, as well as other household appliances believed to have been used to support the suspects’ activities.
Investigations by the Service revealed that some of the suspects entered Ghana through unapproved routes, while others had overstayed the 90-day visa-free entry period granted to certain foreign nationals.
The GIS said further investigations were ongoing at its National Headquarters, while the 73 victims who were rescued during the operation had been repatriated to Nigeria.
The Comptroller-General of Immigration has urged all foreign nationals residing in Ghana to comply with the country’s laws.
The Service noted that the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694) prohibits the recruitment, transportation, or harbouring of persons through force, fraud, or abuse for exploitation.
It explained that offences under the Act attract penalties ranging from five to 20 years imprisonment, with life imprisonment applicable in cases involving child victims or other aggravating circumstances, in addition to fines.
The Service also reminded the public that under the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573), entering the country through unapproved routes or overstaying visas constitutes a criminal offence punishable upon conviction by fines and prison terms ranging from three months to two years.
