EOCO rescues 7 trafficked Nigerians, busts major cyber fraud ring in Mataheko-Afienya
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has announced the successful disruption of a significant cyber fraud and human trafficking syndicate operating in the Mataheko-Afienya area.
The operation, codenamed “Operation LIFELINE,” resulted in the rescue of seven Nigerian nationals who were allegedly trafficked into the country and exploited for cybercrime.
The raid, which took place on Friday, November 14, 2025, saw the arrest of a total of ten individuals. The group comprised three suspects believed to be running the criminal enterprise, and seven victims whose ages range from 17 to 30 years.
All individuals apprehended are Nigerian nationals. According to the EOCO statement released on Monday, November 17, the victims were initially lured to Ghana under the false promise of legitimate employment.
Upon arrival, however, they were reportedly subjected to “harsh and exploitative conditions” and forcefully compelled to engage in online fraud schemes and other prohibited cyber activities. This sophisticated operation highlights a dangerous nexus between human trafficking and organized cybercrime.
The seven rescued individuals are now receiving support as authorities continue their investigation into the full scope of the syndicate’s activities.
On this occasion, the Economic and Organised Crime Office issued a stern warning and an appeal to the public, urging citizens to utilize their hotlines to report any suspicious activities related to cybercrime or trafficking.
Additionally, the office specifically advised landlords and property owners to exercise due diligence when renting out their properties, particularly to foreign nationals, to avoid inadvertently supporting criminal operations.
EOCO reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting offenders, emphasizing that individuals involved in such illegal activities are strongly warned to desist, as the Office remains fully committed to pursuing and apprehending offenders.
The success of Operation LIFELINE clearly demonstrates Ghana’s law enforcement agencies’ commitment to combating transnational organized crime and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
