Ghana has praised Nigerian authorities, especially the Department of State Services (DSS), for rescuing 44 of its citizens from a criminal network engaged in fraudulent recruitment.
In a statement released on Saturday by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it confirmed that the victims were safely returned to Accra on Friday.
The ministry explained that the evacuation was the result of a joint operation involving the DSS and other security agencies from both Nigeria and Ghana.
Among those rescued were 27 men and 17 women, who had been held in locations within Uyo and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State.
They were later received at the DSS office in Uyo by an official of the Ghana High Commission, Mr Leslie Lawson, before being flown back to Ghana.
According to the statement, the victims had been deceived into coming to Nigeria through social media and informal recruitment channels, with false promises of jobs and travel opportunities.
The statement by the Ghana High Commission read, “Further to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Announcement of 13 March, 2026, cautioning the public against activities of ‘QNET’ and similar schemes, forty-four (44) Ghanaian nationals have been rescued from a fraudulent recruitment network in Nigeria.
“Affected individuals were lured through deceptive means, including social media and informal recruitment channels, with false promises of employment and travel opportunities.
“Upon arrival, they were subjected to exploitative conditions, including restricted movement, psychological coercion, and pressure to recruit others into the scheme.”
The ministry further revealed that the rescue operation took place on March 16, 2026, in collaboration with relevant Ghanaian agencies, while the victims were repatriated to Accra on March 20, 2026.
It added that both Nigeria and Ghana are continuing efforts to dismantle the criminal network responsible, while also ensuring the victims receive protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration support.
“The Ministry expresses its sincere appreciation to the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its prompt intervention and continued cooperation.
“Government reiterates its strong condemnation of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment practices and remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaian nationals,” the statement added.
The ministry also advised the public to remain cautious by verifying job and travel offers through official channels and avoiding dealings with unverified individuals or organisations.
It reaffirmed its dedication to protecting Ghanaian citizens both within the country and abroad.
