In a recent development that underscores the ongoing challenges of human trafficking and cybercrime, a 31-year-old Nigerian man has been remanded by the Adenta Circuit Court in Ghana. The accused, Sunday Dimaro, faces charges of human trafficking after allegedly bringing seven individuals from Nigeria to Ghana under false pretenses.
Allegations and Charges
According to the prosecution, Dimaro recruited the victims with promises of securing them legitimate employment in Ghana. However, upon their arrival, he reportedly exploited them by coercing them into engaging in cybercrime activities, specifically romance scams. Dimaro has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The seven individuals, identified as Chiomobi Mmuta, Mathias Unjie, Desmond Iyeke, Michael Ifama, Okorie Emmanuel, James Kenneth, and Victor Opene, have also been charged with illegal entry into Ghana through unapproved routes and failing to report to an Immigration Officer. Their pleas, like Dimaro's, were not taken during the court proceedings.
Court Proceedings and Investigation
Despite applications for bail filed by defense counsel for both Dimaro and the seven others, the court denied all requests. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Fuseini Yakubu opposed the bail applications, citing ongoing investigations as a critical reason for their continued detention.
The complainants in the case include the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and the National Security Secretariat. Preliminary investigations revealed that all accused individuals are Nigerian nationals hailing from various states in Nigeria.
The Operation
The arrests were made on January 16, 2026, following intelligence reports suggesting the presence of multiple cybercrime centers operating in areas such as East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija, and Tuba. These centers allegedly exploited young men by forcing them to engage in cybercrime activities.
A joint operation conducted by the National Security, the CSA, and the Criminal Investigation Department of the Ghana Police Service led to the apprehension of the accused individuals. During the raid on apartments linked to these centers, security agencies confiscated 52 mobile phones, 62 laptops, and other digital devices. These items have been retained as evidence for further analysis.
Findings from Investigations
Investigators revealed that Dimaro had recruited some of the victims under the pretense of offering them legitimate employment opportunities in Ghana. However, upon their arrival, they were housed in an apartment in Tuba near Kasoa and provided with laptops. They were then allegedly coerced into participating in romance scams.
The prosecution further alleged that some of the other accused individuals were also involved in recruiting victims from Nigeria. They reportedly housed these victims in their apartments and supplied them with digital devices for cybercrime activities. However, during court proceedings, these accused individuals denied any involvement in cybercriminal activities.
Current Status of the Case
The rescued victims have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further screening and support. Meanwhile, the seized devices have been transferred to the Cyber Security Authority for detailed investigations to uncover the full extent of the crimes.
The case has been adjourned to January 29, 2026, as investigations continue.
The Broader Implications
This case sheds light on the ongoing issue of human trafficking and its connection to cybercrime in West Africa. It highlights the need for stronger cross-border collaboration between nations to combat these crimes effectively. The exploitation of vulnerable individuals under false pretenses not only violates their rights but also contributes to the growing problem of cybercriminal activities that harm individuals and businesses globally.
As this case progresses through Ghana's judicial system, it serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and robust enforcement mechanisms to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
