The Federal Government has raised the alarm over rising cyber-slavery in West Africa.
It said in a statement by Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Kimiebi Ebienfa that many Nigerians, especially teenagers were the targets of the perpetrators.
According to the statement, the perpetrators lure young Nigerians out of the country by promising them lucrative employment opportunities.
The warning followed the recent rescue of about 231 Nigerians forced to engage in cybercrimes in Accra, Ghana.
The Nigerians were freed by the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO) in Accra.
The statement by Ebienfa reads in part: “In reality, these individuals are trafficked into sophisticated scam operations and enslaved to work in criminal ‘call centres” — often referred to as ‘419 cyber-scam factories.
‘’There, they are forced under coercive and inhumane conditions to send thousands of fraudulent emails, text messages and calls aimed at defrauding victims worldwide.
“This incident highlights the severe exploitation and abuse associated with cybercrime operations. It also underscores the need for enhanced efforts to combat such multibillion-dollar criminal networks and mitigate the susceptibility of victims.”
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The ministry warned Nigerians, especially youths to be wary when presented with job offers, particularly those promising easy money, overseas travels or remote work involving crypto-currencies.
It added: “Nigerians are, therefore, advised to verify all employment offers through official channels and report suspicious cases to relevant authorities for necessary investigation and action to curtail the activities of the perpetrators.
“The ministry wishes to assure the general public that, as a precautionary measure to address this unfortunate situation, the Federal Government is working closely with regional partners, law enforcement agencies, and international organisations to tackle this heinous crime, rescue victims, and bring perpetrators to justice.’’