Ghana Commends Nigeria, DSS for Rescue of 44 Trafficked Nationals

The Government of the Republic of Ghana has commended Nigerian authorities, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), for rescuing 44 Ghanaian nationals from a criminal network known for deceiving foreigners with fake job offers.

In a statement issued on Saturday by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government confirmed that the rescued individuals were safely returned to Accra, the nation’s capital, on Friday.
According to the statement, the successful evacuation was the result of coordinated efforts between the DSS and other security agencies in both Nigeria and Ghana.
The rescued victims, made up of 27 males and 17 females, were trafficked and later freed by DSS operatives in Imo Ekpo, Ifuho, and Ekpri Nsukara communities in Uyo, as well as in Ikot-Ekpene Local Government Areas. They were received by an official of the Ghana High Commission, Mr. Leslie Lawson, at the DSS office in Uyo.
The statement from the Ghana High Commission noted:
“Further to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announcement of 13th March, 2026 cautioning the public against the activities of ‘QNET’ and similar schemes, forty-four (44) Ghanaian nationals have been rescued from a fraudulent recruitment network in Nigeria.
“The victims were lured through deceptive methods, 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 pressure, and coercion to recruit others into the scheme.
“Following a coordinated operation carried out on 16th March, 2026 by Nigerian security authorities, including the DSS, in collaboration with relevant Ghanaian institutions, the victims arrived in Accra on 20th March, 2026.
“The Government of Ghana is working closely with Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders to dismantle the criminal networks involved. Measures are also being implemented to ensure the protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of the victims.
“The Ministry expresses its sincere appreciation to the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its swift intervention and continued cooperation. It reiterates its strong condemnation of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment activities and remains committed to protecting the welfare of Ghanaian citizens.
“The public is advised to exercise caution, verify all travel and employment opportunities through official channels, and avoid dealing with unverified individuals or entities.”
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding Ghanaian citizens both within the country and abroad.