A businessman identified as Kwaku Duah has appeared before the Adenta Circuit Court over allegations that he defrauded a colleague of US$3,000, GH¢20,600 and vehicle spare parts under the pretext of securing United States and Canadian visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to the prosecution, Duah allegedly claimed he had connections through an official associated with the National Sports Authority (NSA) who could assist with arranging the visas for prospective applicants hoping to travel for the global football tournament.
The prosecution told the court that the accused allegedly quoted US$4,500 as the required fee for each applicant. The complainant reportedly relied on these representations and provided money and vehicle parts in anticipation of the promised visa arrangements.
The items allegedly handed over included four brake drums and four 22.5R tyres valued at GH¢18,300. The complainant also reportedly paid GH¢2,300 and US$3,000 as part of the transaction.
However, concerns allegedly emerged when the promised visa interview did not take place as expected. The complainant reportedly became suspicious after the process was delayed and Duah allegedly stopped responding to telephone calls.
The matter was subsequently reported to the Adenta Police, leading to investigations and the filing of charges against the businessman.
Duah has been charged with defrauding by false pretences. He pleaded not guilty when he appeared before the court.
The court granted him bail in the sum of GH¢60,000, with two sureties, one of whom is required to be justified with landed property. He was also ordered to deposit his passport with the court registry as part of the bail conditions.
The case has been adjourned to February 17, 2027, for further proceedings.
The allegations come amid growing public interest in travel opportunities connected to major international sporting events. The FIFA World Cup attracts applicants seeking visas for tourism, business and other legitimate purposes, creating opportunities for fraudulent schemes that promise access to travel documents or expedited processing.
Visa applicants are generally advised to verify travel arrangements independently, use official immigration channels and confirm the legitimacy of anyone claiming to have special connections with government institutions or foreign embassies.
Prospective travellers should also be cautious about making large payments without verifiable documentation, particularly when promised visas or interview appointments depend on informal contacts.
In cases involving alleged visa fraud, investigators and the courts must establish the facts surrounding the transactions, the representations made to applicants and the circumstances in which money or property changed hands.
Duah’s plea of not guilty means the allegations remain before the court and have not been established as proven facts. The next proceedings are expected to continue the judicial process.
Source: Thepressradio.com
