The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, has rescued 39 persons during an intelligence-led operation targeting two suspected travel fraud and human trafficking syndicates operating in Hohoe in the Volta Region.
The operation, carried out on Sunday, July 19, 2026, focused on two groups identified as “Model Q” and “Ignite”, which EOCO said are suspected of deceiving unsuspecting individuals with false promises of securing overseas travel opportunities.
According to a statement issued on EOCO’s official X account, all 39 persons rescued during the operation are currently in the custody of the Office as investigations continue.
Preliminary assessments indicate that 14 of those picked up are suspected to have been involved in operating the alleged scheme, while the remaining 25 are believed to be victims from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali and Côte d’Ivoire.
EOCO said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised criminal networks involved in human trafficking and travel-related fraud.
Investigators recovered several exhibits from the premises, including mobile phones, travel documents and identification cards believed to have been used in facilitating the alleged offences. The seized electronic devices are expected to undergo forensic examination to obtain additional evidence.
The anti-graft agency further disclosed that it is working closely with the relevant embassies and foreign authorities, particularly those of Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire, to facilitate the safe repatriation of individuals believed to be victims of the scheme.
EOCO described the operation as a demonstration of its commitment to combating human trafficking, travel fraud and other forms of organised crime, stressing that persons found culpable would be made to face the full rigours of the law.
The Office also appealed to the public to be vigilant against fraudulent recruitment and travel offers and urged anyone with information on suspicious travel arrangements or recruitment activities to report them to EOCO or the nearest security agency.
Investigations into the alleged syndicates are ongoing.
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