The Tema Regional Police Command has successfully dismantled a human trafficking and cyber fraud syndicate operating at Peace Land, Ashaiman, leading to the arrest of three suspects and the rescue of seven Nigerian nationals who were being held captive. The operation was executed by the Zenu-Atadeka District Police Patrol Team on October 7, 2025. The arrested suspects were identified as Peter Okoyie (36), a computer engineer, along with Jolly Ezekiel (30) and Jolly Shadrack (33).
Investigations revealed the suspects allegedly lured their victims from Nigeria into Ghana with the false promise of construction work in Tema. Upon arrival, the victims were confined to a house and forced into internet fraud activities. Victims reported being subjected to severe beatings and compelled to swear oaths of allegiance to their captors. Those who refused to participate in the fraudulent schemes were locked in a small room measuring approximately 10×12 feet, deprived of food, movement, and basic hygiene for several months. The syndicate reportedly used over ten laptops to train the victims to create fake romantic relationships with unsuspecting persons in foreign countries to defraud them of money.
During a follow-up search at the residence, police retrieved multiple laptops, routers, mobile phones, and other items, which have been retained as exhibits. The seven victims, who had been confined for about eight months, have since been rescued. On October 9, 2025, the suspects were arraigned before the Ashaiman District Court, presided over by H/W Derick Parden Eshun, on charges of Conspiracy to Commit Crime and Human Trafficking. Their pleas were not taken, and they were remanded into Police custody to reappear on October 23, 2025. The Tema Regional Police Command, in a statement signed by ASP Dede Dzakpasu, Head of Public Affairs, assures the public that investigations are progressing and that the Command is collaborating with the Ghana Immigration Service to facilitate the safe repatriation and reintegration of the victims with their families in Nigeria.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
