NPP protests in Accra over 'Democracy Under Attack

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Ghanaian national sentenced to 63 months for romance fraud and money laundering in US

Abdoul Issaka Assimiou, a 38-year-old resident of Parma, Ohio, has been sentenced to 63 months 5.25 years in prison by US District Judge John R. Adams. Assimiou pleaded guilty in October 2025 to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Money Laundering. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $220,485 in restitution to 15 victims. According to court records, from December 2017 to March 2024, Assimiou was involved in an international elder fraud and money laundering conspiracy. He used online dating websites and social media to establish romantic relationships with victims, misleading them with false stories, such as claims of gold inheritances. Victims were convinced to send money via wire transfer to accounts controlled by Assimiou and others. Assimiou retained portions of these stolen funds and purchased products to ship to co-conspirators in Ghana. This sentencing is part of a broader effort by the US Department of Justice, which in May 2026, unveiled an indictment targeting an international criminal network accused of orchestrating romance fraud schemes preying on elderly American victims. Other Ghanaian nationals have also been charged or sentenced in connection with similar schemes, including Jamal Abubakari, Kamal Abubakari, Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie, Frederick Kumi, Daniel Yussif, Dwayne Asafo Adjei, Nancy Adom, Eric Aidoo, Nader Wasif, Otuo Amponsah, Anna Amponsah, Portia Joe, and Hannah Adom.

GhanaWeb1 hour ago3 min

AFAG supports 'Democracy Under Attack' protest over concerns for democratic values and judicial independence

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politics Ghana

AFAG supports 'Democracy Under Attack' protest over concerns for democratic values and judicial independence

The Alliance for Accountable Governance AFAG has announced its support for the upcoming "Democracy Under Attack" demonstration, urging Ghanaians to participate peacefully. In a statement dated August 5, 2026, AFAG stated that the protest aims to protect Ghana's democratic values, constitutional rights, and the independence of state institutions, transcending partisan politics. The group emphasized the constitutional right of citizens to assemble peacefully and demand accountability when democratic principles are perceived to be under threat. AFAG's decision to join the demonstration is driven by concerns regarding implications for democratic freedoms and the administration of justice. These concerns include the arrest and prosecution of citizens, journalists, young people, and activists for expressing opinions, as well as issues of equal justice and due process in high-profile cases like Saglemi and Sedina Tamakloe. The group also highlighted worries about judicial independence, restrictive bail conditions, the Tribunals Act, and the protection of freedom of expression and press freedom. AFAG called on Ghanaians to join the demonstration peacefully and respect the law, asserting that a strong democracy relies on citizens actively defending their rights through lawful means.

Awutu Senya East MP's bodyguards arrested for alleged gold robbery

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politics Ghana

Awutu Senya East MP's bodyguards arrested for alleged gold robbery

Two security guards, Justice Kpappo Mingle and Justice Mensah, attached to the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Naa Koryoo Okunor, have been arrested in connection with an alleged armed robbery. The suspects reportedly used tactical uniforms resembling those of military and police personnel during the incident. The victim, George Osei Tutu, a gold dealer, was allegedly transporting gold valued at GH₵165,000 when he was intercepted and robbed. Police investigations were aided by Justice Mingle allegedly leaving his wallet, containing identification, at the scene. Mingle was arrested at Nyanano and reportedly confessed, leading officers to his alleged accomplice, Justice Mensah, in Akweley. Further investigations suggest the victim's excavator driver, Festus, may have provided information facilitating the robbery. Both suspects are currently standing trial before the Bekwai Circuit Court.

GhanaWeb4 hours ago

NPP protests in Accra over 'Democracy Under Attack

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Ghanaian national sentenced to 63 months for romance fraud and money laundering in US

AFAG supports 'Democracy Under Attack' protest over concerns for democratic values and judicial independence

Awutu Senya East MP's bodyguards arrested for alleged gold robbery