Trader refunds GH¢230k in mistaken bank transfer case

Constance Gyasi Nimako, a trader accused of spending over GH¢770,000 mistakenly credited to her Ecobank account, has refunded GH¢230,000, her lawyer told the Dansoman Circuit Court.

Popularly known as Maa Adwoa, Constance was absent from court but remains in custody. Her mother, Cecilia Gyasi—also standing trial—appeared before the relieving judge, Evelyn Asamoah.

Although Constance’s legal team announced the partial repayment, the court denied her bail, stressing a commitment to a swift trial. The prosecution was ordered to file full disclosures ahead of the next hearing, set for July 23, 2025.

According to prosecutors, the case began when a Chief Executive Officer mistakenly had GH¢800,000 transferred to Constance’s account on February 6, 2025, instead of his own. By the time the error was detected, only GH¢29,778.47 remained.

Investigators say Constance moved GH¢300,000 to her mother’s Fidelity Bank account, transferred GH¢400,000 to her GCB Bank account, and withdrew GH¢70,500 in cash. The prosecution alleges she then went into hiding after refusing to return the money, leading to her arrest in Kumasi. Her mother was later arrested in Accra.

Both women pleaded not guilty. Constance faces charges of stealing and money laundering, while Cecilia is charged with abetment of crime.

In a prior court appearance, Constance was denied bail due to the gravity of the allegations and doubts about her willingness to appear in court. Her mother was granted bail of GH¢500,000 with two sureties, both required to be immediate family members with a minimum monthly income of GH¢2,000.

During questioning, Constance reportedly told police she believed the money came from a foreign company—despite having no business relationship with them—and claimed she had already placed orders for goods.

Police say efforts are ongoing to recover the rest of the funds.