A 27-year-old trader, Helena Oppong, has been remanded in police custody after being charged with defrauding three individuals who sought Canadian work visas.
The case highlights ongoing concerns over fraudulent visa schemes targeting vulnerable job seekers in Ghana.
Oppong is accused of collecting substantial initial payments totaling over GHC 63,000 from three complainants—Joppa Felix, a teacher; Eunice Abayartey, a nurse; and Caroline Frimpomaa Sencherey, a public servant—under the pretense of facilitating their visa applications. The accused, who managed the operation alongside Stephen Botchway, linked to a travel and tour company, allegedly promised the visas would be processed within three months.
However, despite upfront payments ranging from GHC 11,000 to GHC 31,500 into company bank accounts, the complainants received no visas or refunds. Attempts to contact Oppong and visit her Dome office proved futile, with the premises found closed and the accused unreachable. Subsequent police investigations revealed Oppong had been arrested previously on similar allegations.
The court, presided over by Halimah El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit, has set July 2, 2025, for the next hearing, with prosecution ordered to file witness statements and disclosures. Oppong has pleaded not guilty to three counts of defrauding by false pretences.
This case underscores the need for heightened vigilance among Ghanaians pursuing overseas employment or study opportunities. Authorities continue to warn against engaging unverified agents or paying upfront fees without official documentation.
The Ghana Police Service urges the public to report suspicious activities related to visa and travel arrangements to prevent further exploitation.
