The Government of Ghana has applauded the efforts of Nigerian authorities, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), for the successful recovery of 44 of its nationals who fell victim to a criminal network promising false employment opportunities.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministry confirmed that the rescued individuals were safely returned to Accra, the country’s capital, on Friday, 20 March 2026.
The operation was carried out through coordinated efforts between Nigerian security agencies, including the DSS, and relevant Ghanaian institutions.
The victims, comprising 27 males and 17 females, were found in communities across Uyo and Ikot-Ekpene Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State.
They were rescued from Imo Ekpo, Ifuho, and Ekpri Nsukara communities before being handed over to Mr. Leslie Lawson, an official of the Ghana High Commission, at the DSS office in Uyo.
Ghanaian authorities said the victims were lured through deceptive recruitment schemes, including social media platforms and informal channels, with promises of employment and international travel.
Once in Nigeria, they were subjected to exploitative conditions, including restricted movement, psychological coercion, and pressure to recruit others into the network.
“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,” the statement said.
The operation, conducted on 16 March 2026, underscored the close cooperation between Nigerian and Ghanaian authorities. The rescued nationals arrived in Accra on 20 March 2026, highlighting joint efforts to combat human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment.
The Ghanaian government added that it is working with Nigerian authorities to dismantle the criminal networks responsible and ensure the protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of the rescued citizens.
Officials also advised citizens to verify all recruitment opportunities through official channels and avoid engagement with unverified individuals or organizations.
“The Ministry expresses its sincere appreciation to the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its prompt intervention and continued cooperation,” the statement added, noting its commitment to safeguarding Ghanaian nationals both at home and abroad.