Interpol dismantles human trafficking-fraud ring in joint Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire operation

Interpol has announced a major crackdown on human trafficking. They dismantled a ring that exploited victims with fake job offers and pyramid schemes.

This operation involved Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. Two suspects were arrested, and 33 victims were rescued. The victims came from Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Togo.

The criminal network lured victims with false employment offers abroad, especially in Canada. A Ghanaian father alerted authorities after his daughters paid nearly $9,000 to a recruiter. They were promised jobs in Canada but were trafficked to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Victims faced psychological and physical coercion while being held against their will. They were forced to recruit new victims through multi-level marketing schemes. Organizers provided Canadian phone numbers to create the illusion of overseas work. They also arranged photoshoots in luxury hotels to maintain the deception.

Investigators noted that many families believed their loved ones were thriving abroad. In reality, it was a coordinated human trafficking and fraud operation.

The Ghana Police Service began an investigation after one victim escaped home. This survivor provided crucial information to authorities. Thanks to cooperation between West African nations, she returned to Côte d’Ivoire for local investigations. Relatives of other victims also traveled to Abidjan to assist police.

Interpol coordinated efforts between the two countries during this operation. They facilitated intelligence-sharing and organized simultaneous raids in February 2025. Specialized units in Côte d’Ivoire led the operation, resulting in two arrests and the rescue of all 33 victims.

Valdecy Urquiza, Interpol’s Secretary General, praised the cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. He emphasized that joint efforts saved victims and brought perpetrators to justice.

Youssouf Kouyate from Côte d’Ivoire National Police echoed this sentiment about regional partnerships' strength.

The rescued individuals are receiving support from a local NGO. One main suspect has been handed over to Ghanaian authorities for prosecution.

Interpol warned the public about rising scams in West and Central Africa disguised as job offers or educational opportunities. Victims often face forced labor, extortion, and abuse while having their documents confiscated.

Red flags include requests for upfront payments and vague job descriptions. Unusually generous offers or pressure tactics should also raise concerns.

Interpol reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling trafficking networks across member countries. An Interpol spokesperson stated that this effort is about policing deception and saving lives.