The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has uncovered a major human trafficking and recruitment scam, leading to the rescue of 295 victims and the arrest of 25 suspected recruiters in the Ashanti Region.
The operation, conducted at separate locations in Kenyasi in the Kwabre East Municipality and Buoho in the Afigya South District, followed intelligence reports about individuals being lured into fake job and travel opportunities under the guise of QNET, an international direct-selling company.
According to Staff Officer Dominic Mensah, Head of EOCO’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, the victims were deceived by recruiters who promised them lucrative employment and educational opportunities abroad. Upon arrival, they were confined at designated houses and subjected to exploitative conditions.
“Our investigations revealed that these individuals were victims of deception and false recruitment. Arrangements are currently underway to provide shelter and reintegrate them with their families,” Mensah said.
Out of the 320 people rounded up, 25 were identified as suspects believed to be part of the criminal network running the operation. They are currently assisting EOCO with investigations.
Meanwhile, Head of Compliance at QNET, Theodocia Naana Bennieh Quartey, has distanced the company from the illegal activities, expressing deep concern over the persistent misuse of the QNET brand in fraudulent recruitment schemes.
“QNET has no involvement in such criminal operations. We are strengthening our collaboration with law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute individuals who exploit our name for scams,” she stated.
EOCO says efforts are ongoing to dismantle similar fraudulent networks operating in other parts of the country, warning the public to be vigilant and verify recruitment offers before committing to them.
