The United States has lauded the government of President John Dramani Mahama for its close collaboration in the fight against cybercrime, describing Ghana’s role in facilitating the extradition of suspects as a remarkable milestone in bilateral law enforcement cooperation.

Speaking at a roundtable engagement at the US Embassy in Accra on Friday, December 12, 2025, the US Chargé d’Affaires, Rolf Olson, praised the Mahama administration, particularly the Attorney-General’s Department and the Ministry of the Interior, for their commitment to upholding the rule of law.

According to Mr Olson, nine Ghanaian nationals have been extradited to the United States within the year to face charges related to cybercrime, including online impersonation and large-scale fraud schemes that allegedly caused significant financial losses to victims.

He emphasised that extradition does not amount to a declaration of guilt, explaining that all suspects are entitled to due process and a fair trial under US law.

“They are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court,” he noted, adding that convictions, where secured, could attract custodial sentences.

Mr Olson said individuals found guilty of exploiting vulnerable victims, particularly the elderly, should be held fully accountable, stressing the importance of deterrence in combating cyber-enabled crimes.

He also reaffirmed the United States’ openness to receiving extradition requests from Ghana and other partners, describing such judicial cooperation as a cornerstone of strong bilateral relations, subject to legal scrutiny by the courts.

On migration matters, the US diplomat noted that enforcement of immigration laws remains a priority for Washington, including the deportation of foreign nationals who have exhausted legal avenues to remain in the country.

He commended Ghanaian authorities for their continued cooperation in receiving returning nationals, describing it as further evidence of the strength of Ghana–US relations.