Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has challenged FBI Director, Kash Patel, over the bureau’s portrayal of a recent cybercrime operation in Ghana.
The disagreement followed a post by Patel highlighting the results of the FBI’s “Operation Blackout”, a global initiative targeting scam centres accused of defrauding victims, particularly in the United States.
Patel said the Ghana operation had led to more than 130 people being arrested or detained, the seizure of over 300 devices, and the identification of 89 victims and nearly US$10 million in losses.
However, Sam George said the operation should not be presented as an exercise conducted solely by the FBI.
According to the minister, Ghanaian law enforcement and intelligence agencies led the Cyberhunt operations, with support from the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and the FBI.
“Ghanaian law enforcement and intelligence led the Cyberhunt operations, with primary support from the UK @NCA_UK and the @FBI you lead,” he stated.
He warned that portraying the operation as an independent FBI action could damage the spirit of international cooperation needed to tackle cybercrime.
“To suggest the @FBI acted solely to execute this operation in your tweet undermines the potential for future collaboration,” he added.
Sam George said the Ghanaian Cyber Security Authority, Criminal Investigations Department and national security operatives conducted a series of sting operations between September 25 and 28.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting cybercrime and expressed gratitude to Ghana’s international partners.
The FBI has said investigations into the Ghana operation remain ongoing.
