FBI, Ghana raid scam centres targeting Americans, arrest over 130, uncover nearly $10m in losses

The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has assisted Ghanaian authorities in raiding suspected online fraud centres targeting Americans, resulting in over 130 arrests and detentions.

According to SaharaReporters, FBI Director Kash Patel disclosed that the operation identified 89 victims, nearly $10 million in financial losses and seized over 300 electronic devices.

Patel said the crackdown formed part of Operation Blackout, an international campaign targeting organised scam networks.

He added that some detained individuals were trafficking victims who would be repatriated.

“These scam compounds target American citizens and destroy lives – and this FBI is crushing them in every corner of the world. More to come,” Patel said.

The FBI director further claimed that Operation Blackout had resulted in approximately $17 billion in seizures, hundreds of arrests and thousands of trafficking victims rescued.

He said authorities had warned over 10,000 Americans and prevented an estimated $670 million in losses.

Investigations remain ongoing.