Ghana's Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has disputed claims by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) regarding the conception and execution of a recent cybercrime operation. In a statement issued on Thursday, October 8, 2026, the CSA asserted that the operation, known as Operation Cyber Hunt, was planned and executed by local security agencies within Ghana's legal framework. The exercise involved multiple local and international agencies.
The CSA emphasized that Ghanaian authorities maintained operational control throughout the exercise, rejecting claims that the FBI led or commanded the operation. The authority cited Ghana's sovereignty, arguing that foreign law enforcement agencies cannot independently exercise police powers or make arrests within the country. Their involvement must be based on lawful cooperation and authorization from Ghanaian institutions.
The operation, which followed intelligence received on August 26, 2026, uncovered suspected cybercrime centers in parts of the Greater Accra Region. The CSA disclosed that eight suspects were arrested and 120 people allegedly trafficked and exploited for online fraud were rescued. The rescued individuals were predominantly Nigerian nationals, and arrangements were underway to facilitate their repatriation.
Items recovered during the exercise included 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops, internet connection devices, four vehicles, and other digital equipment. One of the vehicles was reported to have been stolen from Canada. Investigators also seized jewelry and ten Nigerian passports. The CSA stressed that the contributions of all participating agencies must be accurately reflected in public communications.
The CSA acknowledged intelligence support from the FBI and the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency but maintained that Ghanaian authorities led the operation. The authority called on the FBI to clarify its account of the operation and recognize the roles played by Ghanaian institutions and other international partners. The CSA remains open to constructive engagement to ensure accurate public records.
The operation involved several local and international agencies, including the National Security Council, the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service, the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency, Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the Ghana Immigration Service. The CSA reaffirmed its commitment to disrupting cybercriminal networks and protecting the public against online fraud.
The CSA will continue to strengthen intelligence-led investigations, cooperation among security agencies, digital forensic capabilities, and international partnerships. Investigations into the arrested suspects and the digital devices recovered during the operation are continuing. The authority's efforts aim to combat cybercrime and protect Ghana's digital landscape.
Key points
- CSA disputes FBI's role in Operation Cyber Hunt
- Eight suspects arrested, 120 victims rescued
- Operation involved multiple local and international agencies
