ACCRA, Ghana – Forty four Ghanaian nationals have been rescued from a fraudulent recruitment network operating in Nigeria following a joint operation by security agencies, authorities confirmed on Friday.
According to a statement released by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 21 March 2026, the victims had been lured through deceptive means, including social media platforms and informal recruitment channels, with promises of employment and travel opportunities.
The Ministry said the individuals later found themselves trapped in exploitative conditions after arriving in Nigeria, where their movement was restricted and they were subjected to psychological coercion, including pressure to recruit others into the scheme. 
The rescue operation was carried out on 16 March 2026 by Nigerian security authorities, including the Department of State Services, working in collaboration with relevant Ghanaian institutions.
The victims were subsequently repatriated and arrived in Accra on 20 March 2026.
This development follows an earlier public warning issued on 13 March 2026 by the Ministry cautioning citizens against engaging with “QNET” and similar schemes linked to fraudulent recruitment activities.
Authorities in Ghana say they are continuing to work closely with their Nigerian counterparts and other stakeholders to dismantle the criminal networks behind the operation, while also putting measures in place to support the victims.
“The Government of Ghana is working closely with its Nigerian counterparts and relevant stakeholders to facilitate ongoing efforts to dismantle the criminal networks involved,” reads part of the statement.
Officials also indicated that steps are being taken to ensure the protection, rehabilitation and reintegration of those rescued.
The Ministry expressed gratitude to the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its swift intervention and cooperation during the operation.
Government reiterated its condemnation of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment practices, urging the public to remain vigilant, verify employment and travel opportunities through official channels, and avoid dealing with unverified individuals or entities.
