Pastor faces court over alleged GH¢310,000 visa fraud

A charismatic church pastor has been arraigned before the Dansoman Circuit Court, accused of defrauding a businessman of GH¢310,000 under the pretense of securing travel visas.

Cris Karl Ofori allegedly took the money from the complainant, promising to facilitate visas for him and his family. Facing a charge of defrauding by false pretenses, he pleaded not guilty.

The court granted Ofori bail set at GH¢350,000, requiring three sureties. Two of the sureties must be government employees earning at least GH¢5,000, while the third must provide property documentation as security. The case is set for its next hearing on April 25, 2025.

How the Incident Unfolded

Prosecutor Chief Inspector Kwadwo Aboagye explained that the complainant, Amadu Seidu, is a resident of Sampa in the Bono Region. In 2023, he expressed a desire to relocate to Canada with his family and sought assistance for the visa process.

A mutual acquaintance, Nana Abena Sika, introduced him to the accused, assuring him that Ofori could help with the visa acquisition.

In October 2024, Ofori reportedly requested an initial deposit of GH¢80,000, along with the complainant’s passport and those of his wife and daughter, claiming it was needed to begin the process. Over time, the businessman transferred a total of GH¢310,000 to the accused.

Later, Ofori informed the complainant that he was unable to secure the Canadian visas but had instead obtained UK visas. He then invited the family to Accra, supposedly to finalize their travel arrangements.

However, upon their arrival in Accra, the pastor was nowhere to be found. After three days of searching in vain, the complainant and his family returned to Sampa and reported the matter to the James Town Police.

Following investigations, law enforcement officers tracked down and arrested Ofori at his hideout. During police interrogation, he reportedly admitted to the crime.

The legal proceedings continue as the court deliberates on the case.