A 28-year-old driver, Samuel Issah Abdulai, saw what was supposed to be the happiest day of his life turn into a nightmare when he was arrested at his wedding ceremony in Nkawie, Ashanti Region, for alleged visa fraud. Abdulai, who is accused of scamming multiple victims out of GH₵352,000 under false pretenses, has been arraigned before the Accra Circuit Court on three counts of defrauding by false pretenses and forgery of documents.
The Alleged Visa Scam
According to the prosecution led by Chief Inspector Daniel Danku, Abdulai and his accomplice, identified only as Antwi, allegedly operated a fraudulent visa scheme between September and December 2024. The two are said to have posted advertisements on the internet, claiming they could secure work visas to countries including Belarus, Andorra, Albania, and Malaysia.
At the time, Abdulai falsely claimed to be residing in Belarus, which helped him gain the trust of his victims.
How the Fraud Unfolded
The accused managed to convince three complainants—Ohenewa Sarah, Matilda Ayaaba, and Aisha Ahmed—that he could facilitate their travel plans by obtaining electronic visas for them.
- Sarah Ohenewa paid GH₵47,000.
- Matilda Ayaaba paid GH₵55,000.
- Aisha Ahmed paid GH₵250,000, an amount she had collected from eleven additional victims who had trusted Abdulai’s visa services.
Once the funds were transferred via mobile money (Momo) in Abdulai’s name, he allegedly went into hiding, ignoring repeated attempts by the victims to reach him.
Fake Visas and the Wedding Day Arrest
In December 2024, Abdulai resurfaced and sent what he claimed were electronic visas via WhatsApp to his victims. However, when the complainants verified the documents at the Immigration DFEC Unit, they were confirmed to be fake.
Determined to recover their money, the complainants tracked down Abdulai and discovered that he was getting married in Nkawie. On the day of the wedding, a group of victims stormed the event and had him arrested on the spot before he could exchange vows. He was then handed over to the Teshie Police in Accra.
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Abdulai has pleaded not guilty to all charges and appeared before the Accra Circuit Court, presided over by Mr. Samuel Bright Acquah. The court granted him bail set at GH₵150,000, with the condition that he provide three sureties, one of whom must justify the bail amount.
Additionally, the accused has been ordered to report to the police every two weeks as investigations continue.
Visa Fraud on the Rise in Ghana
This case highlights the growing trend of visa fraud in Ghana, where fraudsters exploit aspiring travelers with fake promises of overseas jobs and travel documents. The public is urged to exercise caution when dealing with visa agents and to verify travel documents with relevant immigration authorities before making financial commitments.
The court is expected to continue hearings in the coming weeks, as more victims could come forward to testify against Abdulai.
