Ghanaian police have rescued 57 Nigerians who were victims of a human trafficking and cybercrime ring operating in the capital, Accra. Authorities said on Thursday that five suspects were arrested during a raid on a building in a city suburb, where the victims — aged between 18 and 26 — were allegedly confined and forced to participate in online romance scams. The operation was carried out by the Criminal Investigations Department following intelligence reports.

During the raid, police seized 77 laptops, 38 mobile phones, two vehicles, three television sets, and other internet-enabled devices believed to have been used in the illicit operations. Investigators revealed that the victims were lured to Ghana under false promises of lucrative jobs and better living opportunities, only to be coerced into criminal activities upon arrival. “The victims were forced into engaging in online romance scams and other heinous acts,” the police said in a statement.

Authorities confirmed that all 57 rescued individuals are currently receiving medical and psychological support while investigations continue. Human trafficking and forced cybercrime operations remain a persistent challenge in Ghana, despite intensified crackdowns. According to the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the country recorded 79 prosecutions and 54 convictions related to human trafficking between 2023 and 2024.