Nigerian security forces have rescued 44 Ghanaians from a criminal recruitment network, returning them safely to Accra following a coordinated operation with Ghanaian authorities, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana announced.
The victims, comprising 27 men and 17 women, were recovered from locations in Uyo and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State. According to the ministry, the individuals had been lured through deceptive social media posts and informal recruitment channels with false promises of jobs and travel.
Upon arrival in Nigeria, they were subjected to exploitative conditions, including restricted movement, psychological coercion, and pressure to recruit others into the network.
The rescue operation, conducted on March 16, 2026, was carried out in collaboration with relevant Ghanaian institutions, with the victims repatriated to Ghana on March 20, 2026. Both countries are now working to dismantle the criminal networks and ensure the protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of the victims.
The ministry expressed gratitude to Nigeria for its “prompt intervention and continued cooperation”, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to combating human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment schemes.
Citizens were also urged to verify employment and travel opportunities through official channels and avoid engagement with unverified individuals or organizations.
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