A 32-year-old auto mechanic, Abdulai Halidu, has been granted bail of GH¢1 million by an Accra Circuit Court following accusations of defrauding two traders in a fraudulent vehicle deal.
Halidu is alleged to have taken GH¢66,000 and $10,200 from the complainants with the promise of securing them a 2019 Mercedes Benz.
Halidu faces charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and defrauding by false pretences, to which he pleaded not guilty.
His accomplice, Darlington Agyekum Sarfo, is currently on the run.
Presiding over the case, His Honour Samuel Bright Acquah, granted Halidu bail with three sureties, one of which must be justified, and adjourned the case to October 22, 2024.
Police Chief Inspector Daniel Danku, presenting the facts, explained that the complainants, Jemila Trihim and Richmond Osei Kissi, are traders from Achimota and Ashongman, respectively, while Halidu resides in Mile 7.
The court heard that in July 2021, Kissi brought his vehicle to Halidu’s workshop for repairs, where he noticed other imported used cars.
Intrigued, Kissi informed Trihim about the cars, and both expressed interest in making a purchase.
Kissi later inquired further with Halidu about the possibility of acquiring one of the vehicles.
Halidu then contacted his accomplice, Sarfo, who assured Kissi that payment to Halidu would secure them any car of their choice.
The complainants decided to purchase a 2019 Mercedes Benz for $21,200.
According to the prosecution, the complainants made an initial payment of GH¢66,000 (approximately $11,000) to Halidu, followed by a second payment of $5,000.
The final payment of $5,200 was sent directly to Sarfo, who was based in the United States.
However, after receiving the payments, Halidu and Sarfo failed to deliver the promised vehicle, offering different excuses instead.
The complainants eventually reported the matter to the police on August 9, 2024, leading to Halidu’s arrest. Efforts to apprehend Sarfo are still ongoing.
The court’s decision to grant bail underscores the seriousness of the case, with investigators continuing to search for the fugitive accomplice.
