In a shocking turn of events, a 28-year-old driver, Samuel Issah Abdulai, was arrested at his wedding ceremony at Nkawie in the Ashanti Region for allegedly defrauding multiple individuals under the pretense of securing visas. The accused has since appeared before an Accra Circuit Court, where he faces multiple charges related to fraud and forgery.
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Visa Scam Worth GH₵352,000 Uncovered
According to court documents, Abdulai allegedly collected GH₵352,000 from three complainants—Ohenewa Sarah, Matilda Ayaaba, and Aisha Ahmed—after promising to secure electronic visas for Mongolia, Georgia, Albania, and Malaysia.
Prosecutors revealed that Abdulai, in collaboration with an accomplice identified as Antwi, advertised visa acquisition services online between September and December 2024, claiming to be based in Belarus. After convincing his victims, he demanded substantial sums, including GH₵250,000 from Aisha Ahmed, who had collected money from eleven others.
Once the payments were made via mobile money, Abdulai disappeared. However, in December 2024, he resurfaced and sent the complainants fake electronic visas via WhatsApp.
Arrested at His Own Wedding Ceremony
When the victims realized they had been scammed, they launched a manhunt for Abdulai. Their search ended dramatically when they tracked him down at his wedding ceremony in Nkawie and handed him over to the Teshie Police.
Subsequent investigations by Ghana Immigration Service’s DFEC Unit confirmed that all the visas were forged, adding more weight to the prosecution’s case.
Court Grants Bail Amid Ongoing Trial
During his court appearance, Abdulai pleaded not guilty to three counts of defrauding by false pretenses and forgery of documents. Presiding Judge Samuel Bright Acquah granted him bail of GH₵150,000, requiring three sureties—one of whom must be justified. The accused is also required to report to the police every two weeks.
The case has sparked widespread discussions about rising visa scams in Ghana, with many calling for stricter regulations to protect individuals from fraudsters.
What Happens Next?
With the trial ongoing, Abdulai’s fate will be determined by the court. If found guilty, he could face a lengthy prison sentence. Meanwhile, authorities continue their search for his alleged accomplice, Antwi.
Stay updated for more details on this developing story.
