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Nigerian Remanded as 7 Others Face Fees Over Unlawful Access
Date of Report: January 22, 2026
Location: Adenta, Ghana
Court: Adenta Circuit Court
Introduction
In a significant development regarding transnational cybercrime and human trafficking, the Adenta Circuit Court has remanded a 31-year-old unemployed Nigerian national, Sunday Dimaro, into custody. The ruling follows a series of arrests involving a joint task force comprising the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and the National Security Secretariat. Alongside Dimaro, seven other Nigerian nationals are facing legal scrutiny, not for cyber fraud directly, but for unlawful entry into Ghana via unapproved routes. This case highlights the intersection of human trafficking, illegal migration, and cyber-enabled crime in the West African sub-region.
Key Points
- Primary Accused: Sunday Dimaro, a 31-year-old unemployed Nigerian, has been remanded for alleged human trafficking.
- Co-Accused: Seven other Nigerians—Chiomobi Mmuta, Mathias Unjie, Desmond Iyeke, Michael Ifama, Okorie Emmanuel, James Kenneth, and Victor Opene—have been charged with unlawful entry.
- Modus Operandi: Dimaro allegedly trafficked victims under the guise of securing employment in Ghana, only to exploit them for cybercrime activities such as romance scams.
- Evidence Seized: Authorities recovered 52 mobile phones and 62 laptops during raids on alleged cybercrime centers.
- Legal Status: All accused have been remanded despite bail applications, with the case adjourned to January 29, 2026.
Background
The legal proceedings stem from a coordinated crackdown on cybercrime networks operating within the Greater Accra Region. On January 16, 2026, intelligence gathered by the Cyber Security Authority and the National Security Secretariat indicated the presence of several cybercrime centers in specific locations, including East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija, and Tuba.
These intelligence reports suggested that young men were being held and exploited in these locations to perpetrate cyber fraud. Acting on this information, a joint operation was launched involving the National Security, the CSA, and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. The operation led to the arrest of the accused individuals and the rescue of victims who were allegedly being coerced into criminal activities.
Analysis
The case presents a complex legal and social challenge involving human trafficking, cybercrime, and immigration violations. The prosecution’s narrative paints a picture of a systematic exploitation ring where vulnerable individuals are lured from Nigeria with false promises of legitimate employment.
The Human Trafficking Angle
Sunday Dimaro faces the most severe allegations regarding trafficking. According to the prosecution, Dimaro recruited specific victims, including Michael Obi and Godwin Samuel Ujah, under the pretext of assisting them in securing jobs in Ghana. However, upon their arrival, the reality was starkly different. Instead of employment, the victims were allegedly confined in an apartment in Tuba near Kasoa, provided with laptops, and forced to engage in romance scams and other cyber fraud activities. This is a classic definition of human trafficking for the purpose of exploitation.
Unlawful Entry and Residency
The seven other accused individuals—Chiomobi Mmuta, Mathias Unjie, Desmond Iyeke, Michael Ifama, Okorie Emmanuel, James Kenneth, and Victor Opene—are facing charges related to unlawful entry. They are accused of entering Ghana through unapproved routes and failing to report to an Immigration Officer. The prosecution alleges that these individuals were living in the country illegally and were actively recruiting others from Nigeria, housing them, and supplying them with digital devices used in the commission of crimes.
Investigation and Evidence
During the raids, the joint task force retrieved 52 mobile phones and 62 laptops. These devices have been retained as evidence and transferred to the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) for forensic analysis. The CSA’s involvement underscores the growing importance of specialized agencies in combating digital crimes that cross international borders.
Practical Advice
While this case is ongoing, it serves as a critical case study for understanding the risks associated with transnational job offers and cyber safety.
For Job Seekers
Individuals seeking employment abroad should exercise extreme caution. Unverified job offers that require travel to unfamiliar locations, particularly those that promise high returns for low-skilled work, can be fronts for trafficking rings. Always verify the legitimacy of an employer through official channels and ensure proper work visa documentation before traveling.
For Cyber Safety Awareness
The use of “romance scams” in this case highlights a prevalent cyber threat. Public awareness campaigns should focus on recognizing the signs of online fraud, including requests for money from online acquaintances and unsolicited investment opportunities. The public is advised to report suspicious online activities to the relevant cyber security authorities.
FAQ
What is the current legal status of the accused?
As of the latest hearing, Sunday Dimaro and the seven other accused individuals have been remanded into custody by the Adenta Circuit Court. Their pleas have not yet been taken, and the court has denied bail applications pending further investigation.
What specific charges are they facing?
Sunday Dimaro is charged with human trafficking. The seven others—Chiomobi Mmuta, Mathias Unjie, Desmond Iyeke, Michael Ifama, Okorie Emmanuel, James Kenneth, and Victor Opene—are charged with unlawful entry into Ghana through unapproved routes and failure to report to an Immigration Officer.
Who are the prosecuting authorities?
The prosecution is being led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Fuseini Yakubu. The complainants in the case are the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and the National Security Secretariat.
Where were the alleged cybercrime centers located?
Intelligence indicated that cybercrime centers were operating in East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija, and Tuba.
What happens next?
The case has been adjourned to January 29, 2026, for further hearing and continuation of investigations.
Conclusion
The remand of Sunday Dimaro and the seven other Nigerian nationals marks a pivotal moment in the fight against cybercrime and human trafficking in the region. The case highlights the sophisticated methods used by criminal networks to exploit vulnerable individuals and the cross-border nature of modern cyber fraud. As the legal process continues, the outcome will likely set a precedent for how similar cases involving human trafficking for cyber exploitation are prosecuted. The collaboration between the Cyber Security Authority and National Security demonstrates a robust approach to tackling these complex crimes.
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