In a major blow to international fraud networks, the FBI’s ‘Operation Blackout’ has led to the detention of over 130 individuals at a scam compound in Ghana, an operation that has uncovered nearly $10 million in financial losses targeting Americans, primarily seniors. This significant bust, part of the FBI’s global campaign to dismantle scam centers at their source, resulted in the identification of 89 fraud victims and the seizure of over 300 devices. Among those detained are suspected trafficking victims slated for repatriation, mainly to Nigeria. FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the bureau’s aggressive strategy, stating, “We are attacking this problem right at the source and blowing these compounds up, seizing billions of dollars, freeing thousands of trafficked workers, and protecting tens of thousands of Americans at risk of looking their hard-earned savings through these scams. Those who steal from Americans no longer have sanctuary – this FBI will find them and bring them to justice.” This action in Ghana follows a broader trend of scam operations migrating to Africa, with the FBI previously dismantling scam centers in Madagascar linked to Chinese organized crime. Globally, Operation Blackout has reportedly seized around $17 billion, led to hundreds of arrests, and freed thousands of trafficked workers, while also warning over 10,000 Americans about potential scams, preventing an estimated $670 million in losses. The investigation in Ghana is ongoing, with expectations of further victim and loss identification.
Adapted from: U.S. News Today on Fox News
