CID Warns of New Digital Tactics as Human Trafficking Networks Evolve
By Esther Korantemaa Offei
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has warned that human trafficking networks in Ghana are adopting more sophisticated methods, including the use of social media, digital platforms and online scams to recruit and exploit victims.
The Director-General of the CID, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, said Ghana had made considerable progress in the fight against human trafficking over the past 20 years, but significant challenges remained. She said the CID, through its Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, continues to lead efforts in investigating and prosecuting cases involving child trafficking, forced labour, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation and transnational trafficking.
“In 2025 alone, the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit at the CID Headquarters received 127 cases, rescued 1,202 victims, sent 19 cases to court and secured eight convictions through sustained national efforts and partnerships,” COP Donkor said.
She noted that Ghana has maintained its Tier Two ranking in the United States Department of State Trafficking in Persons Report, but warned that traffickers are changing their strategies to exploit vulnerable groups.
According to her, criminals now use smartphones, encrypted messaging applications and online platforms to identify and lure victims. Fake job opportunities, scholarships, entertainment careers, domestic work and travel arrangements are among the tactics used to deceive unsuspecting individuals.
“Traffickers are no longer relying only on physical recruitment. They are using social media, smartphones, digital platforms and encrypted messaging services to identify, recruit and exploit victims across borders,” she stated.
COP Donkor explained that some victims, believing they are pursuing genuine opportunities, end up surrendering their passports, savings and personal information before being subjected to forced labour, debt bondage, sexual exploitation and other forms of modern slavery.
She added that emerging forms of cyber-enabled trafficking, including online investment schemes, romance scams and digital recruitment networks, are becoming a growing concern.
“This changing threat requires a changing law enforcement response,” she said, stressing the need for stronger digital intelligence, cyber investigations, financial investigations, data analytics, digital forensics and international cooperation.
COP Donkor emphasised that combating human trafficking requires more than law enforcement action, noting that survivors need shelter, healthcare, counselling, vocational support and sustainable reintegration.
She called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, traditional leaders, schools, parents and the media to prevent trafficking and protect victims.
“As we commemorate 20 years of the Human Trafficking Act, this anniversary must renew our commitment to prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership,” she added.
