The Nkwanta South Magistrate Court has sentenced Francis Akwesi, a 31-year-old man, to 15 months in prison for impersonation and defrauding a local farmer, Godfred Yindan, of GH¢15,000 under false pretences.
Akwesi pleaded guilty to the charges and was convicted after the court, presided over by Wellington Arhin, heard evidence of his scheme to pose as a military officer to deceive unsuspecting victims.
According to Seidu Kumi, an officer with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Akwesi had been impersonating a member of the Ghana Armed Forces, complete with military attire, to gain the trust of community members.
He used this fake identity to convince Yindan that he could facilitate his enlistment into the Armed Forces in exchange for GH¢15,000.
Akwesi’s frequent appearances in military uniform and his attempts to exert authority over residents raised suspicions in the community. These suspicions eventually led to an investigation, culminating in his arrest by the Nkwanta Police.
During the hearing, the prosecution detailed Akwesi’s actions, emphasising the harm caused to his victim and the community. The court found him guilty of defrauding by false pretences and impersonation.
In addition to his prison sentence, the court ordered Akwesi to refund the GH¢15,000 he took from Yindan.
Presiding Judge Wellington Arhin noted that the verdict should serve as a deterrent to others engaging in fraud and impersonation.
He urged the public to remain vigilant when dealing with individuals making promises that seem too good to be true.
This case underscores the importance of community awareness and timely action in exposing fraudulent activities. The Nkwanta South Police have called on residents to report suspicious behaviour to prevent similar crimes in the future.