Cyber Security Join Forces With Police To Arrest Cybercrime Hooligans

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA), in partnership with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, has intensified efforts to disrupt cybercrime and cyber-enabled human trafficking networks operating within the country.

At a joint press conference, the CSA provided detailed updates on four intelligence-led joint operations conducted between May and July 2025.

These operations form part of Ghana’s broader strategy to enhance national cyber resilience and protect victims of digital exploitation.

The Joint Operations Overview are; Dodowa- Sassabi – Ubuntu Estate (4 July 2025) – acting on intelligence received from an informant, a joint operation was carried out at Ubuntu Estate in Dodowa.

Arrest outcomes; 25 foreign nationals arrested, predominantly from Nigeria, 23 identified as victims and repatriated, 2 Ghanaian suspects in custody at CID Headquarters for further investigation. Items seized were 40 laptops, 30 mobile phones, Starlink internet equipment.

Another operation is the Bortianor-Ngleshie Amanfro (17 July 2025), it targeted a suspected cybercrime hub in Bortianor-Ngleshie Amanfro. Arrest outcomes: 16 individuals arrested, 13 foreign nationals undergoing repatriation, 3 Ghanaian nationals in custody. Items seized: 22 laptops and 11 mobile phones

The next joint operation was Teshie-Nungua – Near Junction Mall (28 July 2025). Arrest outcomes: 14 individuals arrested including;13 foreign nationals and 1 Ghanaian.

Another operation was the Sogakope and Sege (29 May – 1 June 2025) which uncovered a local cybercrime syndicate engaged in impersonation scams. Arrest outcomes are 10 Ghanaian suspects arrested for impersonating Members of Parliament and public figures. Ringleader, who initially escaped, has been arrested in Sege on June 1, 2025 and is in police custody.

These operations demonstrate the Cyber Security Authority’s strong commitment to securing Ghana’s digital ecosystem, protecting vulnerable individuals, and enhancing national cyber resilience through coordinated enforcement.

This comes shortly after Ghanaian rapper, Ayigbe Edem known in real life as Denning Edem Hotor, was unveiled as the ambassador to CSA’s Safer Digital Ghana Campaign 2025.

The Acting Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti at the event explained that, the initiative has its particular focus or target on; Children, the Public, Businesses, and Government for resilience and digital responsibility.

He added, it is strategically meant to span across all 16 regions of Ghana, using multiple languages and formats to reach Ghanaians from all walks of life expected to foster a culture of cyber hygiene, through widespread awareness and education.

“Implemented by the Cyber Security Authority, with support from the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations under the Ghana Digital Acceleration Project, this campaign is a strategic national response expected to foster a culture of cyber hygiene, resilience and digital responsibility through widespread awareness and education.

“The nationwide campaign will span all 16 regions of our country, using multiple languages and formats to reach Ghanaians from all walks of life with particular focus on four main pillars or target audience; that is, Children, the Public, Businesses, and Government.  It will equip children and the public with safe internet practices, online privacy, and digital citizenship, guide businesses to secure their infrastructure and data, and support government institutions to strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks” he revealed.

He further stated, “Through radio, television, newspapers, billboards, digital platforms, and community engagements, the Safer Digital Ghana Campaign will demystify cyber threats and empower Ghanaians to take proactive safety measures. In the coming months, we anticipate tangible outcome in the form of increased reporting of cyber incidents, greater public trust in digital services, safer online experiences for children, and a stronger national awareness of digital risks and responsibilities.

Concluding his speech, he explained, “cybersecurity is not just the responsibility of governments or technology experts; it is everybody’s responsibility. Every child with a smartphone, every entrepreneur managing an online business, and every public servant using digital systems must be equipped with the knowledge to navigate cyberspace safely. Government remains an enabler for cybersecurity development and is commitment to working with key stakeholders to create the needed awareness and structures for the development of cybersecurity in the country.”

Edem, on his part, as a brand ambassador, indicated that, he has dedicated himself to the success of the programme.

“This initiative goes beyond raising awareness it seeks to empower every Ghanaian, from school children to business leaders, government workers to everyday citizens, to take active steps in safeguarding themselves, their families and their communities online.

He added, “As Brand Ambassador, my role is not merely to serve as the public face of this campaign, but to be a dedicated advocate for change. I am committed to using my platform to promote cyber hygiene, encourage the reporting of cyber incidents and champion safe internet practices, particularly among young people.

“Our shared mission is clear: to ensure that every Ghanaian recognises that cybersecurity is not just a technical concern, it is a personal duty, a societal obligation and a national priority. Together, we can build a more secure, resilient and digitally empowered Ghana. Thank you for this opportunity. I am truly honoured to serve.”