Two arrested in Accra for CSSPS scam targeting BECE students and parents

Authorities in Accra have arrested two suspects accused of running a fraudulent scheme that targeted parents and Junior High School students seeking placements in preferred Senior High Schools through Ghana's official placement system. The arrests come as the Ministry of Education intensifies warnings against placement scams that continue to exploit vulnerable families during the crucial school selection period.

The suspects, identified as 24-year-old Vicentia Appiah Antwi, a University of Ghana graduate, and 18-year-old Suzzy Owusu, an unemployed individual, were apprehended on Thursday, 17 September 2026, at the CSSPS Resolution Centre in Accra. According to police investigations, the pair allegedly approached Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates and their parents with promises to secure placements in their schools of choice, in exchange for substantial payments.

The fraudulent operation and scope

Investigators have established that the suspects allegedly demanded between GH¢9,500 and GH¢22,000 from individuals seeking preferred school placements. The case surfaced when two BECE candidates reported the matter to authorities and provided evidence of the suspects' approach. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu was subsequently briefed on the allegations, prompting him to direct security agencies to investigate.

During police interrogation, the suspects mentioned two other individuals they claimed were co-conspirators in the scheme. They named Nana Yaw Boateng, whom they identified as a medical doctor at Kwadaso SDA Hospital in Kumasi, and an individual known as Alex Asumani, also called Lexus. Police have requested these individuals to report for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.

The suspects have since been handed over to the Intelligence Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters for further questioning. After initial interrogation and a 24-hour detention period, they were granted bail pending the continuation of investigations. Police have obtained formal statements from the two victims and their parents as part of the evidence-gathering process.

Why it matters for Ghana and parents

This arrest highlights a persistent problem affecting Ghanaian families during the annual secondary school placement season. The CSSPS was established to ensure a fair, transparent, and merit-based allocation of students to secondary institutions across the country. However, scammers exploit the anxiety of parents and students who fear they may not secure their preferred schools through legitimate channels.

The Ministry of Education has repeatedly emphasised that CSSPS placement is completely free and that no legitimate official demands payment for securing school placements. Such fraudulent schemes not only result in significant financial losses to families but also undermine public confidence in the official placement system. The cases also divert resources from genuine educational access efforts.

For parents navigating the placement process, this incident serves as a critical reminder to verify claims through official channels. Anyone claiming to have insider influence over placements or offering guaranteed school assignments in exchange for payment should be reported to educational authorities or law enforcement immediately. The Education Ministry strongly advises families to contact their local education directorate or the CSSPS management directly with any concerns about placement outcomes.

Investigation and next steps

The CID continues its investigation to apprehend the named accomplices and determine the full extent of the fraudulent operation. Police have indicated that additional victims may come forward as investigations progress. The case underscores the importance of increased public awareness and vigilance during the school placement season, particularly among parents seeking to secure quality secondary education for their children.