A 40-year-old ex-convict, Nurudeen Abdul Ganew, has been brought before the Accra Circuit Court 11 for allegedly defrauding Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, Paramount Chief of the Abeadze Traditional Area and former Vice President of the National House of Chiefs, by impersonating a senior government official.
Appearing before Her Honour Basilia Adjei-Tawiah on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, Abdul Ganew faced charges of personation to commit a crime, defrauding by false pretences, and money laundering.
His plea was not taken as prosecutors informed the court that investigations remain ongoing.
According to the prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Jacob Maalo Kuubal, the accused contacted the Paramount Chief on April 24, 2025 using the mobile number 0552168220, falsely identifying himself as Dr. Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to the President.
He reportedly told the complainant that government vehicles had been auctioned and were available for purchase at discounted prices.
He offered a Toyota Land Cruiser 4×4 for GH¢50,000, significantly below its market value of GH¢165,000. Trusting the caller, who reportedly had a voice similar to the real Dr. Mahama, the chief transferred the amount to two MTN mobile money numbers.
These numbers were allegedly linked to an accomplice introduced as “Alhaji Haruna,” described as a Customs officer.
Encouraged by the false representation, the chief also informed two other traditional leaders — Osagyefo Amanfo Edu and Obrempong Nyanful Krampah XI — who made payments of GH¢165,000 and GH¢133,000 respectively for similar vehicles.
After these transactions, the accused ceased all communication, prompting the complainants to verify with the real Dr. Mahama. Upon discovering the fraud, a formal report was made to the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).
Investigators traced Abdul Ganew to his residence in Wa, in the Upper West Region, where he was arrested. A search conducted at his home led to the seizure of four mobile phones, some of which had IMEI numbers matching those used during the fraudulent calls.
During questioning, the accused is said to have confessed to the crime.
Prosecution have indicated that additional suspects may be involved and further charges could be filed as investigations proceed.
The accused is expected to enter a plea when the court reconvenes on July 7.
