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Ghanaian pastor and 14 others arrested in Canada over alleged fraud targeting homelessness prevention funds
via GhanaWeb1 min read
A Ghanaian pastor and 14 other individuals have been arrested in Vaughan, Canada, following a year-long fraud investigation by York Regional Police. The probe, dubbed Project Great One, uncovered an alleged scheme targeting the Homeless Prevention Program HPP, which provides emergency housing support. Isaac Oppong, 38, identified as a pastor at Miracle Arena for All Nations from 2018 to 2025, is believed to be the ringleader. Richard Owusu, 27, and Christiana Oppong, 41, are also among the arrested, with the remaining suspects being non-Ghanaians. All 15 individuals face multiple charges, including fraud, identity fraud, laundering proceeds of crime, and conspiracy. Investigators estimate that approximately $99,600 was fraudulently obtained between January and December 2024 through suspicious applications containing false information. Authorities conducted searches of 12 homes and 10 vehicles. Police state that investigations are ongoing and have not ruled out additional suspects or victims, appealing to the public for further information.
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A mother is accusing her 15-year-old daughter's father, a Police Inspector stationed at Garu in the Upper East Region, of sexually abusing the girl for several years. The mother stated that the abuse began when her daughter was around 10 years old, resulting in a pregnancy for which the father allegedly arranged a home abortion. The father reportedly coached the girl to lie, even leading to the arrest of a teacher who tried to help her. The truth emerged when a doctor at a hospital encouraged the girl to speak, and she disclosed her father's involvement. The doctor reported the matter to the police, and the inspector was questioned. The girl was initially separated from her father but later returned to his care during the investigation. The mother regained custody after the father fell ill. Medical tests later confirmed the girl is HIV positive, and the mother believes the daughter contracted the virus from her father, who reportedly took medication for leg pain. The mother submitted a medical report to the Agona Jamasi Police Station, but states the case has seen little progress. The case was also reported to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit DOVVSU in Koforidua and referred to national headquarters, but the mother is still awaiting meaningful action.
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