Ghanaians trafficked in football job scam rescued in Nigeria

76 Ghanaians Rescued from Trafficking Scam in Nigeria

Ghanaians trafficked in football job scam rescued in Nigeria. A total of 76 Ghanaians, mostly young men, have been rescued in Nigeria after falling victim to a fraudulent recruitment scam disguised as football and job opportunities abroad. Ghana’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) confirmed the rescue and ongoing efforts to repatriate the victims.

Victims Lured with Promises o.f Football Contracts and Jobs

According to the Ghana Police Service, the victims were deceived with fake offers of football contracts with top international clubs, overseas job placements, or visa facilitation services. The perpetrators promised a gateway to a better future—only to trap the victims in exploitative conditions upon arrival in Nigeria.

Confiscated Documents and Phones Left Victims Isolated

After reaching Nigeria, the victims’ travel documents and mobile phones were seized, leaving them completely cut off from external help. They were forced to live in overcrowded, unsanitary rooms, where up to 40 people shared tight spaces under degrading conditions.

Families Coerced Into Paying False Fees

The traffickers coerced victims to contact their families in Ghana and ask for around $1,000 under the pretense of paying training or processing fees. In addition, the criminals exploited the victims’ contact lists, scamming their friends and relatives by impersonating them or sharing misleading pleas for money.

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Seven Suspects Arrested in Ghana

Ghanaian police have arrested seven suspects believed to be directly involved in the trafficking scheme. Authorities say the fraud was carefully orchestrated and involved several people operating across both Ghana and Nigeria.

Rescue Operation Led by Ghanaian CID, Interpol, and Nigerian Police

The head of the CID, Commissioner Lydia Yaako Donkor, revealed at a press briefing that the victims were rescued between 19 May and 27 June from various states in Nigeria. The operation was a joint effort between Ghanaian law enforcement, Interpol, and the Nigerian Police.

Victims Still Await Repatriation

While the victims have been rescued from immediate danger, they are yet to be returned to Ghana to reunite with their families. Commissioner Donkor assured the public that repatriation procedures are in progress, and authorities are working to ensure the victims receive necessary medical and psychological care.

Victims Forced to Recruit Others into the Scam

The CID also disclosed a disturbing development—victims were pressured to lure others into the same scam. Under duress, they were manipulated into contacting people in their social circles, perpetuating the cycle of deception. Many unknowingly pulled their own friends and family into the trap.

Psychological and Physical Harm Runs Deep

Commissioner Donkor highlighted the deep trauma experienced by victims, many of whom are malnourished, emotionally damaged, and unable to return to a normal life. She described the situation as both a humanitarian and national crisis, urging Ghanaians to be cautious when confronted with glamorous foreign offers.

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Fraudulent Recruitment Patterns Becoming Common

This is not the first time such scams have surfaced in West Africa. The police acknowledged that fake job offers and internet fraud schemes are increasingly common in both Ghana and Nigeria, targeting vulnerable individuals seeking better economic opportunities.

QNET’s Name Resurfaces in Scandal

Investigators noted that QNET, a global wellness and marketing company, has been repeatedly linked to similar recruitment scams. Although QNET denies any wrongdoing, Ghana banned the company in 2022 after reports of Ponzi-like operations and human trafficking ties. Its name appearing again has reignited concerns over its activities in the region.

Public Urged to Verify Overseas Opportunities

Authorities are urging the public to verify any international job, study, or sports contract opportunities before engaging. Families are encouraged to consult official sources or law enforcement before allowing relatives to travel abroad under unclear or suspicious arrangements.

Crackdown on Traffickers Continues

The Ghana Police Service says it is committed to tracking down every individual involved in this complex and far-reaching trafficking network. More arrests are expected as investigations progress in both countries.

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