Man posing as soldier remanded for GH¢192,000 land fraud in Accra – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefFebruary 5, 20263 Mins read56
Man Posing as Soldier Remanded for GH¢192,000 Land Fraud in Accra
Introduction
In a shocking case of deception and fraud, a 43-year-old man has been remanded in custody for allegedly posing as a military officer to defraud a businessman of GH¢192,000 in Accra. The accused, Mahama Sani Razak, also known as Major Zack Gariba Tanko, reportedly claimed he could protect the victim’s land from land guards in exchange for the hefty sum. This incident has raised serious concerns about impersonation of security personnel and the vulnerability of property owners to such scams.
Key Points
- A 43-year-old man, Mahama Sani Razak, was remanded for allegedly posing as a soldier.
- He is accused of defrauding a businessman of GH¢192,000 under the pretext of offering land protection services.
- The accused claimed to be a Major in the Ghana Armed Forces stationed at the Military Police Unit.
- The fraud involved three MTN Mobile Money accounts, one of which belonged to the accused's wife.
- Razak was initially granted bail but absconded, leading to the case being struck out.
- He was rearrested in January 2026 in Akuse, Eastern Region, for a similar offense.
- The court has remanded him until February 10, 2026, and ordered a medical examination due to alleged injuries sustained during arrest.
Background
Land disputes and fraud are persistent challenges in Ghana, particularly in urban areas like Accra where property values are high and land ownership can be contentious. The rise of land guards—individuals who use intimidation and violence to control land—has created a lucrative opportunity for fraudsters to exploit vulnerable property owners. In this case, the accused allegedly capitalized on the businessman’s fear of land guards by posing as a military officer capable of providing protection.
The accused, Mahama Sani Razak, reportedly introduced himself to the victim in March 2025 as an army officer. He later took the victim to Burma Camp, a military installation in Accra, where he further claimed to be a Major in the Ghana Armed Forces. This elaborate ruse convinced the victim to part with GH¢192,000, which was transferred through three MTN Mobile Money accounts.
Analysis
This case highlights several critical issues:
1. **Impersonation of Security Personnel**: The accused’s ability to pose as a military officer underscores the need for stricter verification processes within the Ghana Armed Forces and better public awareness about how to confirm the identity of security personnel.
2. **Vulnerability of Property Owners**: The victim’s willingness to pay such a large sum for land protection services reflects the pervasive fear of land guards and the desperation of property owners to safeguard their investments.
3. **Use of Mobile Money for Fraud**: The involvement of MTN Mobile Money accounts in the fraud points to the growing use of digital financial services in criminal activities. While mobile money has revolutionized financial transactions in Ghana, it has also become a tool for fraudsters.
4. **Judicial Challenges**: The accused’s initial bail and subsequent absconding highlight challenges in the judicial system, particularly in ensuring compliance with bail conditions and preventing repeat offenses.
5. **Medical Claims and Legal Proceedings**: The accused’s claim of injuries sustained during arrest and the court’s directive for a medical examination raise questions about the treatment of suspects and the balance between ensuring justice and protecting human rights.
Practical Advice
For property owners in Ghana, here are some practical steps to avoid falling victim to similar scams:
1. **Verify Identities**: Always verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a security officer or government official. Contact the relevant institution directly to confirm their credentials.
2. **Avoid Large Upfront Payments**: Be cautious of individuals who demand large sums of money upfront for services. Legitimate security services typically have structured payment plans.
3. **Report Suspicious Activity**: If you encounter someone impersonating a security officer or engaging in fraudulent activities, report them to the police immediately.
4. **Use Legal Channels**: For land disputes, seek assistance from legal professionals or government agencies like the Lands Commission rather than relying on unverified individuals.
5. **Stay Informed**: Educate yourself about common fraud tactics and share this information with your community to reduce the risk of falling victim to scams.
FAQ
**Q: What should I do if I suspect someone is impersonating a military officer?**
A: Contact the Ghana Armed Forces or the police immediately to verify their identity. Do not engage with the individual until their credentials are confirmed.
**Q: How can I protect my land from land guards?**
A: Work with legal professionals and government agencies to secure your property rights. Avoid dealing with unverified individuals who claim to offer protection services.
**Q: What are the penalties for impersonating a military officer in Ghana?**
A: Impersonation of a military officer is a criminal offense under Ghanaian law and can result in imprisonment and fines.
**Q: How can I report fraud involving mobile money transactions?**
A: Report the incident to MTN Mobile Money customer service and the police. Provide all relevant details, including transaction records and the suspect’s information.
**Q: What should I do if I’ve been a victim of land fraud?**
A: Report the incident to the police and seek legal advice. You may also contact the Lands Commission for assistance in resolving the dispute.
Conclusion
The case of Mahama Sani Razak serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impersonation and fraud in Ghana. It underscores the need for greater vigilance among property owners, stricter verification processes for security personnel, and more robust measures to combat land-related crimes. As the legal proceedings continue, this case will likely prompt discussions about how to better protect citizens from such scams and ensure justice is served.
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