An Accra Circuit Court has remanded Nana Yaw Bonsu Kwarteng, a 35-year-old online pastor, into police custody over alleged romance fraud involving seven complainants. Kwarteng faces charges of conspiracy to commit crime, defrauding by false pretenses, and non-consensual sharing of intimate images. The alleged fraud totals approximately US$37,000 and GHS 47,000, which converts to over GHS 1.1 million at current exchange rates.
Kwarteng allegedly used an Instagram account to present himself as a pastor, establishing relationships with women before inducing them to part with money. He reportedly proposed marriage, visited families, and claimed to operate a profitable car tyre business. Police allege he obtained funds by falsely representing that the money was needed to clear consignments of tyres, but then failed to repay the amounts.
This case underscores a concerning trend of online financial scams impacting individuals across Ghana. Such incidents erode public trust in digital platforms and highlight vulnerabilities in online interactions. The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is also reportedly seeking Kwarteng in connection with separate investigations, indicating a pattern of alleged financial misconduct.
Inspector Frank Morgan Dorvi, prosecuting, told the court that Kwarteng's wife, Sally Akosua Amoasah, has been jointly charged with six counts of conspiracy to commit crime, namely defrauding by false pretenses. Amoasah was granted bail in the sum of GHS 100,000 with two sureties and ordered to report to the case investigator every Monday and Friday. The prosecution further alleged that Kwarteng secretly recorded intimate images and videos of some complainants, using these recordings to threaten or blackmail them when they demanded refunds.
The court adjourned proceedings to August 6, 2026, for the accused persons to enter their pleas. This case will be closely watched by the public and financial regulators, as it could set precedents for prosecuting complex online fraud cases. The outcome may influence how law enforcement agencies tackle digital financial crimes and protect citizens from sophisticated scams.
The alleged actions, including the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, add a severe dimension to the financial fraud charges. This aspect will be prosecuted before the High Court, reflecting the gravity of the accusations. The police arrested Kwarteng and Amoasah on July 20, 2026, after intelligence-led operations, following reports that they had gone into hiding.
The increasing prevalence of online fraud necessitates stronger public awareness campaigns and enhanced digital security measures. Financial institutions and social media platforms may face increased scrutiny to implement more robust safeguards against such deceptive practices. This case serves as a stark reminder of the financial and personal risks associated with online interactions and the importance of vigilance.