The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, has rescued 39 persons in an intelligence-led operation conducted in Hohoe in the Volta Region.
The operation, carried out on Sunday, July 19, 2026, targeted two groups operating under the names “Model Q” and “Ignite”, which are suspected of luring unsuspecting individuals with false promises of overseas travel opportunities.
According to EOCO, all 39 persons are currently in its custody as investigations continue. Initial assessments indicate that 14 of the persons picked up are suspected to be linked to the alleged scheme, while the remaining 25 are believed to be victims.
The suspected victims are nationals of Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali and Côte d’Ivoire.
During the operation, EOCO recovered several items, including mobile phones, travel documents and identification cards, which are believed to have been used in the commission of the alleged offences.
The items have been submitted for forensic examination to assist investigators in extracting further evidence and establishing the full circumstances surrounding the suspected operation.
EOCO said it is working closely with relevant embassies and foreign authorities, particularly those in Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire, to facilitate the safe repatriation of persons believed to be victims.
The operation, according to the Office, forms part of its broader efforts to combat human trafficking, travel fraud and other forms of organised crime.
EOCO reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring that individuals found to be involved in criminal activities are brought to justice.
The Office has also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious recruitment schemes or questionable travel arrangements to EOCO or the nearest security agency.
Story by Freedom Etsey Lavoe
