Ghana warns citizens over fake jobs and forced cybercrime in Zambia

The Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a cautionary statement to its citizens planning to pursue employment in Zambia, urging them to be wary of deceitful job offers that may lead to human trafficking and forced participation in cybercrime. This advisory followed the apprehension of six Ghanaians in Lusaka, Zambia, on August 23, 2026, as part of a joint effort by the Zambia Police Service, the Drug Enforcement Commission, and the Department of Immigration.

The operation targeted a place suspected of engaging in organized cybercrime, resulting in the arrest of 79 individuals, comprising 10 Zambians and 69 foreign nationals. Among those detained, six were from Ghana.

The Ghanaian government disclosed that reports from the High Commission in Lusaka indicated that certain arrested individuals were lured into what seemed like legitimate employment, particularly online data entry roles. However, some of these individuals reportedly faced coercion into engaging in online scams following the confiscation of their passports by their employers.

This incident underscores how human trafficking networks exploit fraudulent job opportunities to entice unsuspecting job seekers into illegal activities.

In response to this alarming situation, the Ministry has advised Ghanaians contemplating travel to or employment in Zambia to meticulously verify the authenticity of job offers, recruitment agencies, and potential employers before embarking on their journey. Additionally, those already residing in Zambia have been urged to exercise caution when responding to online job opportunities and to maintain frequent communication with the Ghana High Commission in Lusaka for any necessary consular support.

The government remains dedicated to safeguarding the welfare and interests of Ghanaians who travel abroad or reside outside the country.