The Ghana Police Service has arrested three individuals for allegedly impersonating public officials and engaging in a range of online fraud activities targeting unsuspecting members of the public.
The arrests followed a sustained, intelligence-led operation conducted by the Police Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team across several communities in the Volta Region, including Sogakope, Dabala, Dzodze, and Penyi.
The suspects have been identified as Gideon Awudi, 25; Edem Soku, 33; and Judith Soku, 31.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspects allegedly created and operated fake social media accounts impersonating high-profile public officials. These included the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, the Inspector-General of Police, and several other prominent personalities. The fake accounts were reportedly used to deceive victims and fraudulently obtain money and other benefits.
Further investigations revealed that the suspects are believed to be involved in multiple cybercrime activities, including mobile money fraud, credit card fraud, airtime sales fraud, and online marketplace scams conducted across various social media platforms.
The suspects have since been handed over to the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters for further investigations. Police say they will be processed for court in accordance with the law once investigations are completed.
The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to combating cybercrime and has urged the public to exercise caution during online financial transactions. Members of the public are also advised to verify the authenticity of social media accounts, especially those claiming to belong to public officials, before engaging in any form of communication or financial transaction.
Police further encouraged citizens to report suspected online fraud and impersonation cases promptly to aid ongoing efforts to protect the public from cyber-related crimes.
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