Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has publicly challenged United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel over his portrayal of a major cybercrime crackdown in Ghana.
The outspoken minister accused the FBI chief of creating the impression that American agents independently carried out the operation, insisting that Ghanaian security and intelligence agencies were responsible for leading the exercise.
The controversy erupted after Patel announced on October 8, 2026, that a major operation targeting suspected international fraud networks in Ghana had resulted in more than 130 arrests or detentions.
FBI Director Announces Major Cybercrime Crackdown in Ghana
In his announcement on X, formerly Twitter, Patel described the exercise as part of the FBI’s global Operation Blackout campaign aimed at dismantling international scam networks.
According to the FBI director, the operation uncovered nearly $10 million in identified financial losses, identified 89 victims and resulted in the seizure of more than 300 electronic devices.
He further disclosed that over 130 individuals had been arrested or detained, including suspected trafficking victims who would be repatriated to their respective countries.
Patel presented the development as another significant achievement in America’s international fight against cybercriminals.
Sam George Sets the Record Straight
However, Sam George quickly responded, making it clear that the operation was not an exclusively American achievement.
@FBIDirectorKash, as Ghana’s Minister responsible for Cybersecurity, I believe the fight against cybercrime is transnational and requires collaboration.
Ghanaian law enforcement and intelligence led the Cyberhunt operations, with primary support from the UK @NCA_UK and the @FBI you lead.
To suggest the @FBI acted solely to execute this operation in your tweet undermines the potential for future collaboration. I expect that you will reflect on the benefits of our continued cooperation and act accordingly.
For God and Country. 🦁🇬🇭
— Sam ‘Dzata’ George 🦁🇬🇭 (@samgeorgegh) October 8, 2026
According to the minister, Ghanaian law enforcement and intelligence agencies spearheaded the operation, with assistance from the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and the FBI.
The minister emphasized that fighting international cybercrime demands cooperation among countries rather than allowing one institution to appear to take sole credit.
He cautioned Patel that presenting the exercise as an independent FBI operation could damage future security partnerships.
The minister also urged the FBI director to recognize Ghana’s contribution and the importance of continued international collaboration.
Ghana Maintains Strong Position Against Cybercrime
Sam George further revealed that the Ghana-led Cyberhunt operations took place between September 25 and 28, 2026, with Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority playing a leading role.
He reaffirmed the government’s determination to prevent Ghana from becoming a safe haven for cybercriminals under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.
The minister’s response has brought renewed attention to the importance of acknowledging Ghanaian security agencies in international law enforcement operations.
Meanwhile, investigations into the suspected fraud networks remain ongoing, with authorities yet to disclose whether the detained suspects will face prosecution in Ghana or extradition proceedings abroad.
