Ghanaian security authorities have conducted an operation against suspected cybercrime centres, resulting in the arrest of eight suspects and the rescue of 120 people believed to have been trafficked and exploited for online fraud.
The operation, known as “Operation Blackout” or “Operation Cyber Hunt”, involved Ghanaian law enforcement agencies working with international partners, including the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency and Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The FBI Director, Kash Patel, announced the operation on Thursday, October 8, describing it as part of an international effort to dismantle scam centres targeting victims across borders.
Patel reported that more than 130 people had been arrested or detained, 89 victims had been identified and over 300 electronic devices had been seized. He also said investigators had identified nearly $10 million in financial losses linked to the suspected fraud activities.
However, Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority subsequently clarified that the operation was planned, coordinated and executed under Ghanaian leadership, rejecting suggestions that the FBI independently led the raid.
The authority said the operation followed intelligence received in August 2026 concerning properties allegedly being used as bases for organised cybercrime, including romance scams, in parts of the Greater Accra Region.
Locations reportedly targeted included Ubuntu Haven Estate in Kpone Katamanso, Franko Estate in Ga North and other sites in Ga West.
Items recovered included mobile phones, laptops, internet equipment, motor vehicles and other digital devices. Investigators also reportedly found jewellery and 10 Nigerian passports.
According to the Ghanaian authority, most of the 120 people rescued were Nigerians, and arrangements were being made for their return to their home country. Investigations into the suspected criminal activities and the seized electronic devices remain ongoing.
The authority emphasised that foreign law enforcement agencies participated within Ghana’s legal framework and acknowledged the intelligence support provided by international partners.
The operation highlights continuing regional and international efforts to combat cyber-enabled fraud, human trafficking and organised scam networks that exploit vulnerable people while defrauding victims across national borders.
