Judge Isaac Addo of the Circuit Court in Accra has granted bail to a 42-year-old businessman, Shamshudeen Kokroko Abdul-Salam Alidu, who is facing charges of defrauding by false pretenses contrary to Section 131(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1900 (Act 29).The accused, who pleaded not guilty, was granted bail in the sum of GH¢100,000.00 with two sureties.
The court stipulated that the sureties must be family members of the accused, reside within the court’s jurisdiction, and provide proof of earning not less than GH¢5,000 monthly.
The prosecution was directed to file its disclosures in accordance with procedural guidelines, and the case has been adjourned to February 13, 2025.
Particulars of the Case
The accused allegedly defrauded William Samina, a trader from Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region, of GH¢93,000.00 under the pretext of securing a United States visa for him.
According to the brief facts presented to the court, in November 2023, Mr. Samina, eager to travel to the United States for better opportunities, contacted his brother Billy Alidu, who introduced him to the accused.
The accused reportedly assured Mr. Samina of his ability to secure the visa for a fee of US$8,000, equivalent to GH¢93,000.00.
The accused claimed to have international partners in South Africa, Colombia, and other countries who could facilitate the visa process within six to eight weeks. Convinced by the representations, Mr. Samina handed over the required amount to the accused.
However, after receiving the money, the accused suggested that Mr. Samina traveled to South Africa to meet his alleged partners to expedite the process. Upon arrival in South Africa, Mr. Samina discovered that the accused had no such connections.
Efforts to contact the accused were unsuccessful, prompting him to return to Ghana and file a complaint with the police.
Investigations
Police investigations revealed that the accused had no legitimate travel arrangements or partners to facilitate the complainant’s visa acquisition.
In his caution statement, the accused admitted receiving the money and claimed to have arranged for the complainant to meet his alleged partners. However, these assertions were found to be false.
The accused was subsequently charged with defrauding by false pretences and arraigned before court.
