Ex Niger Delta Militant Group Members Arrested … For Allegedly Plotting To Embark On Kidnapping Business In Ghana

Two Nigerian nationals have been arraigned before the Accra Circuit Court for their alleged involvement in a foiled cross-border kidnapping operation, masterminded by former members of a Niger Delta militant group.

The accused, Joseph Howell, 43, a self-proclaimed private security officer and Japhet Graham, 53, a self-styled businessman, appeared before the court presided over by Her Honour Susana Eduful on Wednesday.

They face a single charge of attempt to commit crime, namely kidnapping, contrary to Sections 18(1)(a) and 89 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

The court did not take their pleas as the duo lacked legal representation. They were remanded into custody to reappear on September 22, 2025.

Prosecution’s Account

Presenting the facts of the case, Chief Inspector Jacob Maalo Kuubal Esq., told the court that intelligence received on September 6, 2025 from the Nigerian Police Intelligence Unit and INTERPOL NCB, revealed a plot by ex-members of the Niger Delta militant group to carry out kidnappings in Ghana.

According to the prosecution, on September 5, 2025 three suspects based in Nigeria; Mathew (Lagos), Smart Christmas Alfred (Ondo State) and Adusa Oyile (Delta River) contacted one Tari Tiemo, the alleged gang coordinator (now in custody in Nigeria), seeking funds to travel to Ghana to execute the operation.

Tiemo allegedly promised each suspect ?1.5 million (approx. GH¢20,000) to support their families, while they operated in Ghana.

Their targets were reportedly high-profile individuals, referred to as “Oborobo” — a slang term for affluent persons or expatriates.

The group allegedly planned to travel to Ghana via speedboats, through riverine routes, wearing Ghanaian security uniforms to avoid detection.

After executing the kidnappings, they intended to retreat into the Niger Delta creeks in Nigeria and demand ransom from victims’ families.

Arrest and Interrogation

The prosecution further revealed that intercepted communications between the suspects and their Ghanaian informants led to the arrest of Howell and Graham in Aflao, Volta Region.

Phone numbers used in these discussions were traced directly to the accused. Both men allegedly entered Ghana illegally and initially denied knowing each other.

However, investigations revealed that they were both received at Prince Hotel in Aflao, by suspect Tari Tiemo, where they first met in person.

During interrogation

Howell claimed he came to Ghana to collect ?1.5 million owed him by his uncle, Tiemo.

Graham stated that he came to retrieve the same amount from a mutual acquaintance named Jonas.

Howell also admitted being affiliated with three security groups operating along the Delta River.

Authorities are collaborating with Nigerian security agencies to trace and apprehend other suspects mentioned during interrogations. Investigations are ongoing in both Ghana and Nigeria, with more arrests expected.

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