Pastor drugged to court over $32,084 visa fraud

$32,084 visa fraud championed by a pastor has awakened Accra to the realities of some men of God who hid behind the name of God to engage in illegal activities.

In Accra, Ghana – A 47-year-old pastor, Bismark Quaoo Yankey, finds himself trading hymns for headlines after appearing in court accused of defrauding five individuals of a hefty $32,084 and GH₵13,760. The alleged scheme? Promising US visas but delivering nothing but empty promises and a vanishing act.

Yankey, facing five counts of defrauding by false pretences, pleaded not guilty before an Accra Circuit Court. Bail was set at GH₵300,000, with a court date scheduled for January 23, 2024.

The prosecution painted a picture of Yankey preying on hopeful travelers, luring them with the promise of swift US visas for a mere GH₵4,000 and $11,000 each. From businessmen to traders, five individuals fell victim to the pastor’s smooth-talking, allegedly handing over a combined sum of GH₵13,760 and $32,084.

Pastor drugged to court over $32,084 visa fraud – Arrest

But once the pockets were filled, Yankey reportedly vanished into thin air. Calls went unanswered, meetings cancelled, and the promised visas remained as elusive as a desert mirage. Frustrated and financially drained, the victims finally tracked Yankey down to his church premises, leading to his arrest.

On November 10, 2023, the prosecution stated that the complainants discovered information that the accused person was present in the premises of his church, which led to the arrest of the accused person.

Now, Yankey awaits his fate in court, leaving a trail of broken dreams and unanswered prayers in his wake. This case serves as a stark reminder to be wary of seemingly too-good-to-be-true offers, especially when they come dressed in a religious cloak.

The Pastor visa fraud case is expected to be a test case and a lesson for men of God engaged in such activities.

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Key facts in the case:

1. Pastor Bismark Yankey allegedly scammed five people of $32,084 and GH₵13,760 promising US visas.
2. He faces five counts of fraud but pleaded not guilty in court.
3. Yankey allegedly charged each victim GH₵4,000 and $11,000 in processing fees.
4. After taking the money, he vanished, prompting the victims to contact authorities.
5. Yankey was eventually arrested at his church and awaits his next court date.

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