The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has rescued 26 victims in a major anti-human trafficking operation code-named “Operation Quest.”

The operation, carried out on Friday, October 17, 2025, by EOCO’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, followed intelligence reports that some individuals were using the name of QNET to traffic unsuspecting victims under the guise of offering them employment opportunities.

According to a statement signed by Faustina Lartey, Head of Public Affairs at EOCO, the suspects — comprising two Ivorians and seven Ghanaians — were apprehended after weeks of surveillance and coordinated efforts between EOCO and its partners. The rescued victims included 10 Ivorians and 16 Ghanaians who had been lured with false promises of jobs and prosperity.

“All nine suspects are currently in EOCO custody assisting with investigations,” the statement said.

The crackdown forms part of EOCO’s ongoing efforts to curb the growing menace of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment schemes linked to the misuse of reputable brands.

EOCO has cautioned the public to be wary of individuals and groups claiming to represent QNET or offering overseas employment opportunities through the company.

In July 2025, QNET signed a partnership agreement with EOCO to clamp down on the activities of scammers and fraudsters who deceive innocent people under the guise of providing overseas employment, visas, and other false promises.

The Deputy Chairman of QNET in Sub-Saharan Africa, Biram Fall, in a recent media engagement in Accra, explained that while there are genuine Independent Distributors of QNET who promote and sell the company’s range of quality, internationally certified products, there remains a worrying number of people who take undue advantage of the company’s legitimate direct-selling business model to defraud others. According to Mr Fall, their actions have caused regrettable reputational damage to QNET.

In addition to the widespread “QNET Against Scams” campaign — implemented in Ghana through radio, television, newspapers, social media, and billboards in strategic locations across the country — QNET and EOCO are embarking on a nationwide public and media education roadshow to sensitise the public against scams.