The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana has confirmed the rescue of 44 Ghanaian nationals from a fraudulent recruitment network operating in Nigeria, while renewing its warning to the public about human trafficking and deceptive job schemes.
In a press release issued in Accra on March 21, 2026, the Ministry said the victims were lured abroad under false pretences, despite earlier warnings about the activities of so-called recruitment organisations, including schemes linked to “QNET.”
The statement explained that the individuals were recruited through misleading means, primarily via social media and informal channels, with promises of employment and international travel.
“Upon arrival in Nigeria, they were subjected to exploitative conditions, including restricted movement, psychological coercion, and pressure to recruit others into the scheme,” the Ministry said.
The victims were rescued on March 16, 2026, during a joint operation led by Nigerian security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), in collaboration with Ghanaian authorities. They were safely repatriated and arrived in Accra on March 20, 2026.
Government officials say the operation is part of wider efforts to dismantle transnational criminal networks involved in human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment.
The Government of Ghana is working closely with its Nigerian counterparts and other stakeholders to ensure the protection and recovery of the rescued individuals. Authorities are implementing measures to support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society while investigations into the networks responsible continue.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed gratitude to the Government of Nigeria for its swift response and ongoing cooperation in tackling the issue.
Reiterating its stance, the government condemned all forms of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment, emphasising its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaian nationals at home and abroad.
The Ministry has urged the public to exercise extreme caution when considering travel or employment opportunities, particularly those offered through unofficial channels. Citizens are encouraged to verify opportunities through recognised institutions and avoid engagement with individuals or organisations whose credibility cannot be confirmed.
“The public is advised to exercise utmost caution, verify all travel and employment opportunities through official channels, and avoid engagement with unverified individuals or entities,” the Ministry stated.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Ghanaians wherever they may be and stressed that efforts to combat trafficking and exploitation will continue.
“The Ministry reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the protection of Ghanaian citizens both at home and abroad,” the statement concluded.