Tag Archives: cybercrime

Africa, Crime, Leak

Cyber Security Authority, Police Arrest 141 Suspected Cybercriminals in Tabora and Lashibi

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The Cyber Security Authority of Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, National Security, and the Ghana Immigration Service Headquarters, has carried out a major early-morning operation targeting organised cybercrime networks operating within the country.

The intelligence-driven raid was conducted across two key locations—Tabora and Lashibi—as part of ongoing national efforts to clamp down on cyber-enabled financial crimes. In Tabora, 100 suspects were arrested, while 41 suspects were apprehended in Lashibi, bringing the total number of arrests to 141.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are believed to be Nigerian nationals allegedly involved in a range of cybercrime activities. During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered 38 laptops and 150 mobile phones, all suspected to have been used in perpetrating online fraud schemes.

Cyber Security Authority, Police Arrest 141 Suspected Cybercriminals in Tabora and Lashibi 4

In a significant development, authorities also arrested a Ghanaian landlord who provided accommodation for 100 of the suspects. Security officials emphasized that landlords have a legal and civic responsibility to ensure their properties are not used to facilitate criminal activities.

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According to investigators, the suspects are linked to several cyber-related crimes, including Mobile Money (MoMo) fraud, romance scams, sextortion, Business Email Compromise (BEC), and wire fraud. These crimes have caused substantial financial losses to victims both locally and internationally.

Forensic examinations of the seized electronic devices are currently underway. Officials say individuals found to be culpable will be processed and prosecuted in line with Ghanaian law.

The Cyber Security Authority has urged the public to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious digital activities, and continue supporting national initiatives aimed at combating cybercrime. Authorities reiterated that while Ghana remains welcoming to foreigners engaged in legitimate business, anyone involved in cybercrime will be decisively dealt with according to the law.

Crime, Ghana News, Security

US Embassy Reveals Cybercrime Links in Recent FBI Arrests of Ghanaians

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The Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Ghana, Rolf Olson, has disclosed that the majority of Ghanaians recently arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) were linked to cybercrime operations involving online impersonation and fraud.

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Speaking on strengthened security cooperation between Ghana and the United States, Olson explained that investigations revealed organized networks engaging in sophisticated digital crimes, particularly romance scams, business email compromise, and identity impersonation schemes that targeted victims abroad, especially in the United States.

According to him, these criminal activities have caused significant financial losses and emotional distress to victims, prompting US authorities to intensify collaboration with Ghanaian law enforcement agencies. Olson emphasized that cybercrime remains a top priority for US law enforcement due to its cross-border nature and growing complexity.

He further confirmed that since President John Dramani Mahama assumed office in January, Ghana has extradited nine suspects to the United States to face prosecution. This development, he said, reflects a renewed commitment by both countries to uphold the rule of law and dismantle international cybercrime syndicates.

“The extraditions demonstrate strong bilateral cooperation and Ghana’s willingness to act decisively against criminal networks operating within its borders,” Olson stated. He added that intelligence sharing and joint investigations between the two countries have significantly improved in recent months.

Ghana has often faced international scrutiny over cybercrime, popularly referred to as “internet fraud,” which has tarnished the country’s image globally. However, the US Embassy official stressed that these recent actions signal progress and accountability rather than a failure of the system.

Olson also urged the youth to stay away from cybercrime, warning that digital fraud may appear lucrative in the short term but carries severe long-term consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and permanent damage to personal reputations.

He praised Ghanaian security agencies for their professionalism and cooperation, noting that continued partnership would help protect innocent citizens while ensuring criminals are held accountable regardless of their location.

The US Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ghana through training, technology, and intelligence-sharing initiatives aimed at combating cybercrime and enhancing digital security across the region.