CSA REJECTS FBI’S CLAIM …Insists Ghana led cybercrime operation

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has firmly rejected claims made by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that the FBI independently initiated, directed or executed a recent cybercrime operation in the country. The CSA maintains that the operation, dubbed "Operation Cyber Hunt," was meticulously planned and led by Ghanaian authorities.

The FBI's assertion came in a post on its "Operation Blackout" campaign, which reported that over 130 individuals had been arrested or detained in Ghana, with a total loss of nearly US$10 million and more than 300 electronic devices seized. However, the CSA's statement unequivocally asserts that "Operation Cyber Hunt" was a Ghana-led initiative, with the Authority coordinating the operation and receiving support from local security agencies and international law enforcement partners.

Eight suspects were apprehended during the operation, which uncovered cybercrime operations in various parts of the Greater Accra Region. Rescue efforts led to the safekeeping of 120 individuals suspected of being trafficked for online fraud. Intelligence indicating the presence of cybercrime hubs at locations in Kpone Katamanso, Franko Estate, and other areas in Ga West prompted the operation.

Seized items included 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops, internet connectivity devices, four motor vehicles, and various other digital equipment, with one vehicle reportedly stolen from Canada. Additionally, high-value items like jewelry and 10 Nigerian passports were recovered.

The CSA explained that the operation involved multiple Ghanaian agencies, including the National Security Council, the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Attorney-General's Office. International partners included the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA), the FBI, Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Joint Case Team on Cybercrime (OCTC).

The Authority emphasized that public accounts of the operation should accurately reflect the roles of all participating entities, acknowledging the FBI and NCA's intelligence contributions.

The CSA reminded that Ghana's sovereignty as a republic precludes foreign law enforcement agencies from exercising unilateral police powers or conducting arrests within the country. Foreign agencies must operate within lawful cooperation frameworks and with the authorization and involvement of relevant Ghanaian authorities. The CSA insisted that international partnerships are vital in combating transnational cybercrime but must be conducted with respect for Ghana's legal frameworks, institutions, and operational authority.

The Authority reiterated its commitment to dismantling cybercrime networks, safeguarding the public from online fraud, and enhancing intelligence-led investigations, inter-agency coordination, digital forensics, and international cooperation. Ongoing investigations into the suspected cybercrime centers and the seized digital devices are continuing.