A major human trafficking network that deceived victims with fake job offers and pyramid schemes has been dismantled in a joint operation between Interpol, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire.

The crackdown led to the arrest of two individuals and the rescue of 33 people from Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Togo. The victims were lured with promises of overseas employment—particularly in Canada—but ended up trafficked and exploited.

The criminal activity came to light when a Ghanaian father reported the disappearance of his two daughters, who had paid close to $9,000 each to a recruiter claiming to offer jobs in Canada. Instead, they were trafficked to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Investigators revealed that the victims were held captive, subjected to both psychological and physical pressure, and forced to lure others into the scheme.

“A lot of families were misled into believing their loved ones were thriving abroad,” investigators said. “But the reality was a well-coordinated human trafficking and fraud operation.”

The traffickers gave them Canadian phone numbers and staged photoshoots in luxury settings to maintain the illusion.

Following the escape of one victim who returned to Ghana and provided crucial information, Ghanaian authorities initiated an investigation. The survivor later traveled back to Côte d’Ivoire to assist in the probe, joined by relatives of other victims who also supported the police effort.

Interpol coordinated the intelligence-sharing and led simultaneous raids at two key sites in February 2025. The operation’s success is credited to collaboration between specialised units in both countries.

“The success involving Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana is an excellent example of how important police cooperation is when it comes to fighting human trafficking scams,” said Valdecy Urquiza, Interpol’s Secretary General. “Because of their joint efforts, victims have been saved and those responsible are now facing justice.”

Director General of the Côte d’Ivoire National Police, Youssouf Kouyate, echoed this sentiment: “Our close cooperation with Interpol and Ghanaian police was pivotal to the achievements of this operation and is a testament to the strength of our regional partnerships.”

Currently, the rescued individuals are being supported by a local NGO. One of the suspects has been extradited to Ghana to face charges.

Interpol has issued a public warning to be alert to fraudulent job and education schemes across West and Central Africa. Victims are often subjected to forced labour, extortion, and abuse, with their identification documents seized and their relationships exploited to lure new recruits.

The agency emphasized the warning signs of such scams—unusually attractive offers, pressure to make quick decisions, vague job details, and requests for large upfront payments.

“This is not just about policing borders,” said an Interpol spokesperson. “It’s about policing deception, restoring trust, and saving lives.”