The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has said that, through its operations unit, it has arrested five suspects for allegedly trafficking 57 Nigerians into Ghana.

The suspects identified as Joel Nosa, Collins Rotimi, Shadrack Lulu, Austin Amahuaro, and John Uloko, were arrested at Adom Estates, Tema Community 25, in an intelligence-led operation conducted by the unit.

Preliminary investigations have established that the suspects operated a human trafficking network responsible for luring and transporting young men and women from Nigeria to Ghana under the guise of securing them employment and educational opportunities.

Upon arrival, the victims, aged between 18 and 26 years, were coerced into engaging in online romance scams and what police termed "other heinous activities".

During the operation, the police said they retrieved 77 assorted laptops, 38 mobile phones, two vehicles, three television sets, and other internet-enabled devices suspected of being used in perpetrating the crimes.

These retrieved exhibits have been retained for further forensic examination, police indicated.

All 57 rescued victims are currently receiving the necessary care and support, while the suspects remain in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations.

Police cautioned the general public, particularly the youth, to remain vigilant about offers of employment, educational opportunities, or travel arrangements made through social media or other unverified sources.

The service also reiterated their unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking, cybercrime, and related offenses, and encourage anyone with credible information on such criminal activities to report to the nearest police station, via a statement signed by Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, Public Relations Officer Criminal Investigation Department (CID).