The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the successful rescue and repatriation of 28 Ghanaian nationals who were victims of a sophisticated human trafficking network operating in Côte d’Ivoire.
In a statement, the Ministry confirmed that the victims, who were predominantly young people, had been lured with promises of “paradise in Europe” after paying large sums of money to the traffickers.
According to the Ministry, the operation was carried out through coordinated efforts by security operatives and officials at Ghana’s Embassy in Abidjan. The victims have since been safely returned to Ghana following what authorities described as a special operation.
“All 28 Ghanaians had been promised paradise in Europe by the traffickers after extorting huge sums of money from them,” the statement noted, adding that the victims are now back home safely.
The Ministry further assured the public that the government remains committed to protecting Ghanaians both at home and abroad. It stressed that efforts are underway to dismantle criminal networks involved in such activities and bring the masterminds to justice.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirming the development in af Facebook post on Monday, May 11, 2026, affirmed that the Mahama administration will stand by any Ghanaian in distress and urged the youth to remain vigilant, warning them against falling victim to the tactics commonly used by traffickers and unlicensed recruitment agents promising overseas opportunities.
Authorities also advised the public to verify any travel or job-related advertisements with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment Relations, or Ghana’s diplomatic missions abroad before making financial commitments.
The rescued victims are said to be assisting with further investigations.
