Twenty-eight Ghanaian nationals, mostly young people, who reportedly fell victim to a sophisticated human trafficking syndicate in Côte d’Ivoire have been rescued and successfully repatriated to Ghana, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.
The victims arrived safely in Ghana on May 10 following what authorities described as a coordinated rescue operation involving security agencies and officials from the Ghana Embassy in Abidjan.
In a statement issued in Accra, the Ministry confirmed that the rescued individuals are currently assisting investigators as efforts continue to dismantle the trafficking network and identify those responsible for the operation.
“The rescued human trafficking victims are safely in Ghana and currently assisting with further investigations,” the statement noted.
Authorities say the operation forms part of broader efforts to combat transnational human trafficking and protect vulnerable young people from exploitation across the sub-region.
The Government of Ghana also praised Ivorian authorities for their cooperation and intelligence support throughout the rescue exercise.
“The Government of Ghana conveys commendations to Ivorian authorities for the effective collaboration and shared intelligence,” the Ministry stated.
Government further assured that efforts are ongoing to track down and prosecute the masterminds behind the trafficking operation. According to officials, the administration remains committed to protecting Ghanaian citizens abroad and strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries to combat organised cross-border crime.
Human trafficking remains a growing concern in parts of West Africa, with many young people often lured by false promises of jobs and better opportunities, only to end up trapped in exploitative conditions.
Authorities are urging the public, particularly young people seeking opportunities abroad, to remain cautious and verify travel and employment arrangements through legitimate channels before embarking on journeys outside the country.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
Do you have a story to share? Send it to our editorial team at editor@wesleyannews.com