Rescue Operation Thwarts Football Recruitment Scam: 76 Ghanaians Freed in Nigeria

A total of 76 Ghanaians, primarily young men, were rescued from a trafficking operation in Nigeria after being deceived by fraudulent promises of lucrative football contracts and job opportunities abroad. According to police reports, the victims’ ordeal began when they were misled into thinking they would receive placements in established football academies and assistance with visa processes. Upon arrival in Nigeria, their travel documents and mobile devices were confiscated, confining them to overcrowded living conditions. Under duress, they were coerced into contacting their families to demand sums of approximately $1,000 to cover training fees, while the fraudsters exploited their contacts to further their scam.

Ghana's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) confirmed the arrests of seven suspects linked to the scheme. CID head, Lydia Yaako Donkor, in a press briefing, disclosed that this rescue involved collaborative efforts with Interpol and Nigerian authorities. The victims were located across various Nigerian states between May 19 and June 27 of this year, with repatriation efforts being arranged. Ms. Donkor urged families to be cautious and conduct thorough verifications of overseas job offers before proceeding. Many victims are reported to be dealing with severe psychological trauma and malnutrition, hindering their reintegration into society.

The fraudulent recruitment operation has been tied to QNET, a global marketing firm that has faced criticism and was banned in Ghana in 2022 due to its alleged Ponzi scheme. Although the company denies any association with fraudulent practices, instances of job scams and subsequent internet fraud remain prevalent issues in both Ghana and Nigeria. Authorities are actively pursuing the remaining perpetrators of this trafficking web as they work to prevent similar operations in the future.