93 Nigerian ‘Yahoo Boys’ Busted, 73 Tortured Victims Rescued

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 93 Nigerian nationals suspected of operating an internet fraud syndicate in Accra, following a major intelligence-led operation.

The suspects, comprising 91 men and two women, were arrested during a coordinated raid on six houses at Devtraco Estate.

But the operation uncovered more than just an alleged scam network as officers also rescued 73 people believed to have been held captive and severely tortured and abused by the suspects.

The operation was led by Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Newman Akuffo of the GIS National Operations Unit.

The Public Affairs Department of the Ghana Immigration Service of the Ghana Immigration Service in a press release said many items believed to have been used in the suspects’ operations were seized during the raid.

These included counterfeit US dollars, fake gold bars, 82 laptops, 57 mobile phones and 17 television sets, as well as several other electronic devices and household appliances.

Preliminary 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 statement said investigations are continuing at the GIS National Headquarters to uncover the full extent of the alleged activities.

Meanwhile, the 73 victims rescued during the operation have been repatriated to Nigeria.

The Service reminded the public that the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694) makes it a criminal offence to recruit, transport or harbour persons through force, fraud or abuse for exploitation.

Offenders face prison terms of between five and 20 years, while cases involving children or other aggravating circumstances may attract life imprisonment.

The Service also noted that under the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573), entering the country through unapproved routes or overstaying a visa is a criminal offence punishable by fines or prison terms ranging from three months to two years upon conviction.

The Comptroller-General of Immigration urged all foreign nationals living in Ghana to strictly comply with the country’s laws.