The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has arrested 93 Nigerian nationals, comprising 91 males and 2 females, for their alleged involvement in internet fraud and immigration-related breaches.

The intelligence-led operation, conducted by Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) Newman Akuffo from the National Operations of the GIS, targeted six houses within the DEVTRACO Estate.

During this operation, 73 victims were rescued from severe torture and abuse at the hands of the suspects.

A statement released on Monday, March 9, revealed that items confiscated during the operation included counterfeit US dollars, fake gold bars, 82 laptops, 57 mobile phones, 17 television sets, and other household appliances used to facilitate their activities.

Investigations by the Ghana Immigration Service indicated that some suspects had entered Ghana via unapproved routes, while others had overstayed their visa-free entry of 90 days.

Probes are currently ongoing at the GIS National Headquarters, and the 73 rescued victims have been repatriated to Nigeria. The Comptroller General of Immigration has urged all foreign nationals to comply with Ghanaian laws.

The Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694) prohibits recruiting, transporting, or harbouring individuals through force, fraud, or abuse for exploitation.

The statement, signed and issued by Maud Anima Quainoo, Deputy Commissioner of Immigration, Head/Public Affairs Department, assured that penalties include 5 to 20 years of imprisonment (life for child victims or in cases with aggravating factors), along with fines.

Additionally, under the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act S73), entering via unapproved routes or overstaying visas is a criminal offence. Convicted offenders may face summary conviction, fines, and imprisonment ranging from 3 months to 2 years.