SAKAWA - The Forms of Cyber Crime in Ghana

Abstract

This paper investigates the prevalence of cybercrimes (called ‘sakawa’) in Ghana and examines its forms and implications. Using qualitative approach, we explore efforts by organizations and government agencies in Ghana towards curtailing cybercrimes in terms of apprehension, prosecution, reporting, and law enforcement. Findings from our research showed that although awareness of cyber crime is on the increase, the crimes mostly go unreported. The Ghana Police Service which is the organ of government responsible for arresting and prosecuting cyber criminals also lack the technical know-how and adequate legal support to effectively discharge their duties.

We recommend that a multi-stakeholder effort and appropriate technical training for the Police and supportive legislation are required. For online financial transactions, developing strategies which incorporate offline business qualification requirements may be the necessary starting point. Since the perpetrators are young and have some degree of technical competence to commit computer-related crimes. This brings to question the need for appropriate youth development programs which utilize their technical competencies. In future research, we will explore how social theories in criminology can assist in understanding the behavior and intention of both the victim and perpetrators in cyber crime.