The Chief Executive Officer of Lumere Group International, Giselle Dede Aklobesse, has been charged with defrauding businessman Amadu Zurikie of GH¢6,480,000.00.
Aklobesse faces a charge of Defrauding by False Pretences under Section 131(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). If found guilty, she could face severe legal consequences, including a custodial sentence.
Her absence in court has raised concerns, with legal experts warning that failure to appear on March 5 could lead to a bench warrant for her immediate arrest.
Aklobesse was absent when the case was called at the Dansoman Circuit Court, presided over by Her Honour Halimah El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit.
Due to her failure to honour the court summons, the judge adjourned the hearing to March 5.
However, the court has warned that a bench warrant will be issued if she fails to appear again without a valid reason.
Background
According to court documents, Aklobesse, 45, allegedly obtained $400,000 from Amadu Zurikie under false pretences.
Zurikie, a businessman residing in Weija, Accra, claims that Aklobesse promised to exchange the amount at its cedi equivalent of GH¢6,480,000.00.
The alleged transaction took place on January 16, 2025, at Aklobesse’s office in Westland, Accra.
She reportedly assured Zurikie that the cedi equivalent would be delivered within two hours. However, after over five hours of waiting, Aklobesse requested an additional 15 minutes, but still failed to provide the promised funds.
Realizing he had been defrauded, Zurikie demanded a refund of his $400,000, but Aklobesse instead requested two more days to raise the money.
Suspecting foul play, Zurikie reported the matter to the Accra Regional CID, leading to Aklobesse’s arrest.
During police investigations, Aklobesse admitted to collecting the money, claiming she had used it for business transactions that were delayed. She has since refunded $200,000, while investigations continue.
