The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has successfully broken up a major cyber fraud and human trafficking syndicate operating in the Mataheko–Afienya enclave, rescuing seven victims and arresting ten suspects during a tactical operation codenamed “Operation LIFELINE.”

The raid, carried out on Friday, November 14, 2025, led to the arrest of three key suspects believed to be leaders of the criminal enterprise, along with seven trafficked individuals, all Nigerian nationals aged between 17 and 30.

In a statement released on Monday, November 17, EOCO confirmed that the victims were lured into Ghana with false promises of legitimate employment opportunities. Upon arrival, however, they were subjected to harsh, exploitative conditions and forced to participate in online fraud schemes and other illegal cyber operations.

Human Trafficking and Cybercrime Interconnected

According to EOCO, the dismantled network represents a growing and dangerous link between transnational human trafficking and organized cybercrime. The victims were reportedly monitored, restricted, and forced to operate in tightly controlled cyber-fraud setups designed to target individuals and businesses online.

EOCO officials say the rescued victims are now receiving medical assistance, psychological support, and protective services as investigations continue into the full operations of the syndicate.

EOCO Issues Public Warning and Calls for Vigilance

The agency used the opportunity to urge the public to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities involving cybercrime, online fraud, or human trafficking through EOCO’s dedicated hotlines.

Landlords and property owners were specifically cautioned to conduct due diligence when renting out their premises, especially to foreign nationals, to avoid accidentally enabling criminal networks.

EOCO emphasized its unwavering commitment to shutting down criminal operations across the country:
“Individuals involved in such illegal activities are strongly warned to desist, as the Office remains fully committed to pursuing and apprehending offenders.”

Ghana Strengthens Fight Against Organized Crime

The success of Operation LIFELINE underscores Ghana’s intensified efforts to combat transnational crime and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

Security officials say more coordinated operations are expected in the coming months as authorities continue monitoring cybercrime hotspots across the nation.