CID Uncovers Massive Online Food Delivery Scam, 10 Held
Volta Region - The Ghana Police Service, through its Cybercrime Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), has arrested ten suspects for allegedly creating fake online food delivery platforms to defraud unsuspecting customers. The operation, which began on October 1, 2025, in Sogakope, led to the arrest of six initial suspects, with further investigations resulting in the capture of four more individuals.
According to investigations, the suspects created fake websites and social media pages impersonating well-known food brands such as Papaye, Pizzaman, KFC, and Mawarko. Victims who placed orders through these fake platforms were directed to make advance payments via mobile money. However, after payment, the victims never received the food they ordered.
In some cases, the suspects gained unauthorized access to victims' mobile money wallets and bank accounts under the guise of assisting with payments. They then withdrew funds from these accounts. Digital devices believed to have been used in the fraudulent activities were retrieved and are undergoing forensic examination.
The main suspect was arrested on October 12, 2025, along with three others at Haatso in Accra. The newly arrested suspects include Elijah Sotama Etse (alias Pop Smoke, the syndicate leader), Elliot Sotama Atsu, Jethro Atsu, and Obed Selasi Agboli. Twelve mobile phones were retrieved from the suspects and are being preserved for forensic examination.
Source - Lead News Online/Leticia Okpoti
