MFA Warns against Fake Jobs Luring Ghanaians Into Cybercrime In Zambia

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory cautioning Ghanaians against fraudulent employment opportunities in Zambia that have resulted in coercive conditions and forced involvement in cybercrime activities.

In a statement dated October 5, 2026, the Ministry said it has observed with concern an emerging trend of Ghanaians being lured to Zambia through fake job offers.

The concern follows the arrest of six Ghanaians in Lusaka, Zambia, during a joint operation conducted by the Zambia Police Service, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), and the Department of Immigration on August 23, 2026.

The operation, which targeted a facility suspected of being involved in organised cybercrime activities, resulted in the arrest of 79 individuals, comprising 10 Zambians and 69 foreign nationals, including six Ghanaians.

According to reports received by the Ghana High Commission in Lusaka, some of the individuals had been recruited through purported legitimate employment opportunities, including online data-entry positions, but were subsequently forced into online scam activities after their passports were confiscated by their employers.

The Ministry said the situation highlights the growing use of fraudulent employment opportunities by human trafficking syndicates to lure unsuspecting job seekers into illicit activities.

The Ministry, therefore, advised Ghanaians travelling to or seeking employment opportunities in Zambia to exercise extreme caution and thoroughly verify the authenticity of employment offers, recruitment agencies and prospective employers before travelling.

It also urged Ghanaians living in Zambia to remain vigilant, exercise caution when responding to online employment opportunities, and maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission in Lusaka for consular assistance if the need arises.

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