Ghanaian pastor and 14 other individuals have been arrested in Vaughan, Canada, following a major fraud investigation into the alleged misuse of funds intended to support vulnerable and homeless residents.
The arrests were made after a year-long investigation by York Regional Police, which uncovered what authorities describe as a coordinated scheme targeting the Homeless Prevention Program (HPP).
Among those arrested are Isaac Oppong (38), Richard Owusu (27), and Christiana Oppong (41), all residents of Vaughan in the York Region. Twelve additional suspects, who are not Ghanaian, were also taken into custody.
All 15 individuals have been charged with multiple offences, including fraud, identity fraud, laundering proceeds of crime, possession of property obtained by crime, false pretence, and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.
Investigators, under a probe dubbed Project Great One, say the suspects allegedly exploited the Homeless Prevention Program, a social support initiative designed to assist individuals at risk of homelessness or without stable housing.
Between January and December 2024, authorities identified several applications containing falsified or misleading information, with about $99,600 reportedly obtained fraudulently.
What began as isolated irregularities later developed into evidence of a coordinated network operating over time to exploit weaknesses in the system.
The Financial Crimes Unit, working alongside regional officials, executed search warrants at 12 residences and 10 vehicles as part of the operation.
Police say Isaac Oppong has been identified as the principal suspect. He reportedly served as a pastor at Miracle Arena for All Nations from 2018 to 2025 and is alleged to have used his position of trust to recruit others into the scheme.
Authorities say the case has raised concern within both the local community and religious circles due to the nature of the allegations and the vulnerability of those affected.
Officials further noted that the funds were meant for emergency housing support, including rent assistance and shelter services for people facing homelessness.
Advocates warn that fraudulent claims of this nature could strain social support systems and reduce resources available to those in genuine need.
Investigations are ongoing, with police indicating that additional suspects or victims could emerge as inquiries continue. The York Regional Police has also appealed to the public for information to help establish the full extent of the alleged operation.
