East Legon businessman arrested for World Cup visa scam targeting fellow Ghanaians

An Adenta-based businessman has been arraigned in court for allegedly perpetrating a World Cup visa fraud scheme that defrauded a fellow Ghanaian of substantial sums in cash and goods. Kwaku Duah, who resides at East Legon Hills, was charged with defrauding by false pretences after collecting US$3,000, GH¢2,300 in cash, and spare parts valued at GH¢18,300 from the complainant under the guise of securing United States and Canadian visas for attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

How the scheme unfolded

According to facts presented before Mrs Angela Attachie at the Adenta Circuit Court, Duah and the complainant first met through an intermediary, John Teiko, in March 2026 when the complainant supplied tipper truck spare parts for Duah's vehicle. Following this initial transaction, Duah allegedly approached the complainant with what appeared to be a lucrative opportunity: visa facilitation for the upcoming World Cup tournament.

Duah claimed that a top official at the National Sports Authority (NSA) had connected him with a personal assistant named Gyamfi, who specialised in securing World Cup attendance visas for interested Ghanaians. The businessman allegedly told the complainant that the NSA's official fee was US$4,500 per participant. When the complainant could only afford US$3,000, Duah proposed an alternative arrangement: the complainant would supply four brake drums and four 22.5R tyres (valued at GH¢18,300) in addition to paying a reduced visa fee of GH¢2,300.

The complainant, convinced by the promise of World Cup travel, accepted the proposal and handed over both the vehicle parts and the cash. However, as promised visa interviews failed to materialise and delays mounted, the complainant grew suspicious and pressed Duah for updates. Duah allegedly responded by becoming hostile and ceasing all communication with the complainant, effectively cutting off contact.

Police investigation exposes the fraud

Frustrated by Duah's sudden unavailability, the complainant reported the matter to Adenta Police. During investigations, law enforcement established that Duah had fabricated the entire scheme. He had no connections to the NSA, no association with anyone named Gyamfi, and had never arranged any visa interviews for the complainant. The passport Duah had taken from the complainant upon their initial discussion was recovered during his arrest.

Why it matters for Ghana

This case highlights a growing vulnerability among Ghanaians eager to travel abroad for major international events. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has sparked legitimate interest among football fans across Ghana, particularly given the Black Stars' historical presence in World Cup tournaments. However, this enthusiasm has created fertile ground for fraudsters who exploit the complexity of international visa processes and the appeal of attending global sporting events.

The scheme also reveals how perpetrators leverage seemingly credible institutional references—in this instance, the NSA—to lend false legitimacy to fraudulent propositions. Ghanaians seeking legitimate World Cup travel should work directly with official channels, including their national football association, established travel agencies with verifiable credentials, and official embassy visa services. The case underscores the importance of verification before committing money or valuables to unofficial intermediaries, regardless of how persuasive their claims may appear.

Duah pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Adenta Circuit Court admitted him to bail in the sum of GH¢60,000 with two sureties, one of whom must be justified with landed property. His passport was ordered to be deposited with the court registry. The case has been adjourned to 17 February 2027.