Stronger institutional collaboration needed to fight cybercrime — EOCO

Mr. Patrick Yankey, Head of Intelligence Unit at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), has urged for enhanced collaboration among institutions to combat cybercrime in Ghana. Speaking at the African Fraud Stakeholders Dialogue (AFSD) 2026 in Accra, Mr. Yankey emphasized that the EOCO's success in tackling intricate criminal networks stems from effective collaboration.

The dialogue, themed "Mobilizing Collective Action Against Fraud," provided a platform for discussions on emerging fraud threats and possible solutions. Representatives from various sectors, including the Attorney General’s Department, Cybersecurity Authority, and Ghana Post, shared insights on regulatory enforcement and the growing menace of digital crime.

Isaac Obour, founder of the Anti-Fraud Initiative Ghana (AFIG), stressed the necessity of stronger partnerships between governments, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector to counteract the escalating threat of financial fraud across Africa. Obour highlighted that the sophistication of financial crimes and digital scams is causing substantial financial losses, hindering economic development, and impacting the livelihoods of individuals and businesses.

He warned that without decisive action, the long-term consequences could severely impact economic stability and growth. Obour stressed the need for increased investment in fraud prevention, intelligence sharing, public education, and capacity building. He advocated for expanded collaboration, warning that no single institution can effectively combat the complex nature of fraud alone.

AFIG, established by Mr. Obour, aims to create a united front against financial crime, focusing on prevention, intelligence sharing, victim support, public awareness, and capacity building. The AFSD 2026 concluded with a call for African countries and institutions to bolster cooperation in preventing financial crime and safeguarding resources crucial for economic growth and development.