Sam George Reveals Info Leaks Hindered Past Cybercrime Arrests
Communication Minister, Sam George, has accused individuals within the previous administration of leaking sensitive information to suspected cybercriminals, thereby hindering efforts to combat digital fraud and damaging Ghana’s international reputation.
The Ningo Prampram MP, speaking in a widely circulated social media interview, revealed that past enforcement actions against cyber fraud were often compromised when operational details were allegedly leaked to those targeted before arrests could be made.
Addressing the timing of requests from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Mr. George clarified, “The FBI did not make the requests today; those requests were pending before I became minister.” He emphasized that investigations into cybercrime were well underway before the current administration took office.
However, he lamented a prior pattern of internal leaks, stating, “But in the past, people were leaking the information to the targets and helping them evade arrest.”
Upon assuming his role, Mr. George said he made a firm commitment to end this “internal sabotage” of security operations. “I committed when I became minister that anything we would do to clean up the image of Ghana internationally, we will,” he stated, stressing the need for decisiveness and confidentiality.
The Minister linked these leaks to Ghana’s struggles with digital credibility, noting the negative impact on its relationship with global tech and payment platforms. “Well, they will blacklist Ghana as long as there’s fraud happening in Ghana,” he explained, referencing platforms like PayPal, TikTok, and Meta.
He argued that continued leaks frustrate arrest attempts and perpetuate cybercrime, making it harder to convince these platforms that Ghana is a secure digital environment. “Because as we clamp down on cyber crime, it makes our case stronger, as we talk to the platforms to monetise, and say that, look, Ghana is a peaceful destination, it’s a haven, and that illicit flows will not come through here,” he said.
Mr. George further suggested that these actions harm legitimate internet users, particularly content creators and young people seeking online income. “And so if you have a few people, depriving the majority of people who are doing legitimate work on social media, content creators, the reason you can’t monetise and get value for your craft is that a few people have chosen to give Ghana a bad name,” he said.
He firmly rejected the notion that economic hardship could justify criminal behavior or interference with law enforcement. “The excuse and argument that there are no jobs. Then, should we say that then we shouldn’t arrest armed robbers as well because everybody will have a reason for crime?” the Minister questioned.
These comments come as the government intensifies efforts to strengthen internal controls, coordinate with international partners, and prevent leaks that could endanger investigations into both cyber fraud and other digital crimes.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
