An Accra Circuit Court has remanded Nana Yaw Bonsu Kwarteng, a 35-year-old online pastor, into police custody. He faces charges related to alleged romance fraud involving seven complainants. This action underscores the rising concerns about online financial scams in Ghana.
Kwarteng is charged with six counts of conspiracy to commit crime, specifically defrauding by false pretences. He also faces a charge of non-consensual sharing of intimate images, which will be prosecuted at the High Court. His wife, Sally Akosua Amoasah, has been jointly charged with six counts of conspiracy to commit crime, namely defrauding by false pretences. She was granted bail in the sum of GHS100,000 with two sureties and must report to the investigator every Monday and Friday.
This case highlights a disturbing trend of online fraud impacting individuals and the broader economy. Romance scams, where perpetrators build emotional connections to extract money, have become increasingly prevalent. The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has previously warned the public about such schemes, which often target vulnerable individuals. The alleged sums involved, totalling over GHS1.2 million, represent a significant financial loss for the victims and contribute to a climate of distrust in online interactions.
Inspector Frank Morgan Dorvi, prosecuting, informed the court that Kwarteng allegedly used an Instagram account to present himself as a pastor. He then established relationships with women, including an ambassador and businesswomen, before inducing them to part with money. The prosecution stated that Kwarteng proposed marriage and claimed to operate a profitable car tyre business. He allegedly obtained various sums, including US$33,000, GHS25,000, US$4,000, and GHS22,000, under the pretext of clearing tyre consignments.
The prosecution further alleged that Kwarteng secretly recorded intimate images and videos of some complainants. He reportedly used these recordings to threaten or blackmail them when they demanded refunds. Police also allege he shared intimate images of one complainant with his wife, Amoasah. The couple allegedly went into hiding after the complainants pursued the matter, despite police invitations. They were arrested at their hideout on July 20, 2026, following intelligence-led operations, with Kwarteng attempting to escape before re-arrest.
The court adjourned proceedings to August 6, 2026, for the accused persons to enter their pleas. Investigations are ongoing, and additional persons have reported to the police claiming to be victims. The Ghana News Agency reported that Kwarteng is also wanted by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for separate investigations. This suggests a pattern of alleged fraudulent activities, which could lead to further charges and a more extensive legal process.
The implications of such high-profile fraud cases extend beyond the immediate victims. They can erode public confidence in digital platforms and financial transactions, potentially impacting the growth of Ghana's digital economy. Law enforcement agencies and financial institutions will likely intensify efforts to combat online fraud. This case serves as a stark reminder for individuals to exercise extreme caution when engaging in online relationships and financial dealings.