Ghana has commended Nigerian authorities and the Department of State Services (DSS) for rescuing 44 of its citizens from a cross-border job scam network that trafficked victims with false promises of employment.
In a statement, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the victims, 27 men and 17 women, were freed in coordinated raids across Akwa Ibom State, including Uyo and Ikot-Ekpene areas, and flown back to Accra on Friday.
“Forty-four Ghanaian nationals have been rescued from a fraudulent recruitment network in Nigeria,” the ministry said, adding that the victims were lured via social media and informal channels with fake job and travel offers.
Authorities said the victims were subjected to harsh conditions, including restricted movement, psychological pressure, and forced recruitment into the scheme.
The operation, carried out on March 16 by the DSS and other Nigerian security agencies in collaboration with Ghanaian officials, led to their safe return on March 20.
Ghana expressed “sincere appreciation” to Nigeria for the swift intervention and ongoing cooperation, and said efforts are underway to dismantle the trafficking ring.
The government also warned the public to verify overseas job offers through official channels to avoid falling prey to similar scams.
