Accra:The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has disputed FBI Director Kash Patel's portrayal of a recent operation against suspected cybercrime networks in Ghana, asserting that Ghanaian authorities led and coordinated the exercise.
According to Ghana Web, the CSA clarified that the operation, known as 'Operation Cyber Hunt' or 'Operation Blackout', was executed under Ghana's legal framework with support from international partners, including the FBI and the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA).
In a press release dated October 8, 2026, the CSA rejected any implication that the FBI independently planned or led the operation. This statement came after Patel's post on social media platform X, where he described the effort as part of the FBI's global campaign against scam centers.
Patel reported that the operation identified nearly $10 million in losses involving 89 victims, with over 130 arrests and the seizure of more than 300 electronic devices. However, the CSA emphasized the crucial involvement of Ghanaian institutions and other international partners, insisting that the operation was not under foreign command.
Ghanaian authorities conducted the operation within their legal and institutional frameworks, challenging the notion of it being part of an FBI-led program. The CSA also reminded foreign agencies that their activities in Ghana must involve lawful cooperation with local authorities.
Despite concerns over Patel's post, the CSA acknowledged the valuable intelligence support from the FBI and NCA, highlighting the importance of their contributions to combating international cybercrime. The Authority urged the FBI to amend its public statements to accurately reflect the roles of Ghanaian agencies and other partners.
The CSA's Operation Cyber Hunt targeted suspected cybercrime centers in the Greater Accra Region, resulting in eight arrests and the rescue of 120 individuals suspected of being trafficked into online fraud. Intelligence received in August 2026 indicated that certain estates were being used for organized cybercrime, including romance scams.
Seized items included 136 mobile phones, 130 laptops, internet connection devices, four vehicles, and other digital equipment. Among the vehicles was one reportedly stolen from Canada. The search also uncovered jewelry and 10 Nigerian passports. Efforts are underway to return the rescued victims, mostly Nigerians, to their home country as investigations continue.