Security Guard Arraigned for Posing as Cop at ShattaFest Concert: Full Court Update

Introduction

In a striking case of police impersonation at ShattaFest, 34-year-old security guard Akoto Nelson appeared before an Accra Circuit Court accused of wearing a police camouflage uniform and falsely presenting himself as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). This incident unfolded during the high-profile ShattaFest concert at Black Star Square in Accra, Ghana, highlighting serious concerns about fake police officers at public events. ShattaFest, organized by popular Ghanaian dancehall artist Shatta Wale, draws massive crowds, making security paramount. Nelson’s actions allegedly undermined public safety and trust in law enforcement.

Understanding impersonating a public officer in Ghana is crucial, as such offenses erode confidence in police during crowded events like concerts. This article breaks down the facts, charges, arrest details, and broader lessons, optimized for those searching “security guard posing as cop ShattaFest” or “Ghana police impersonation case.” Reported by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) and covered by Life Pulse Daily on November 28, 2025, the case underscores the vigilance of Ghana Police Service’s Formed Police Unit (FPU).

What is ShattaFest?

ShattaFest is an annual concert event headlined by Shatta Wale at Black Star Square, a key venue for major public gatherings in Accra. Past editions have featured thousands of attendees, emphasizing robust security protocols.

Summary

Akoto Nelson, a personal security operative, was arraigned on charges of possessing police accoutrements without lawful authority and impersonating a public officer. The alleged offense occurred on October 19, 2025, at approximately 1:00 a.m. during ShattaFest at Black Star Square. Arrested by an FPU team led by DSP Alexander Asamoah, Nelson was found in a police camouflage uniform marked ASP. He pleaded not guilty before Judge Mr. Jojo Hagan and remains on his previous bail of GH₵50,000 with two sureties. A search of his residence yielded a toy P99 pistol, pepper spray, two ZTE mini handsets, an Xinte cutter knife, and complimentary cards from senior officers. Investigations confirm he owned the uniform since 2022 and used it at funerals and public events to intimidate people. Further probes continue.

Analysis

This ShattaFest police impersonation case reveals vulnerabilities in event security where individuals exploit uniforms to gain undue authority. Nelson’s choice of ASP rank—a mid-level commissioned officer in the Ghana Police Service hierarchy—suggests intent to command respect and compliance from concertgoers.

Breakdown of the Arrest

The FPU team, responsible for crowd control at large events, spotted Nelson at 1:00 a.m. on October 19, 2025. His uniform and self-proclaimed ASP status prompted immediate detention. Interrogation failed to produce any authorization for the attire, a key element in Ghana’s legal framework against unauthorized use of official gear.

Items Seized and Their Significance

• Toy P99 pistol and pepper spray: Mimic real law enforcement tools, enhancing the deception.
• ZTE mini handsets and Xinte cutter knife: Potentially used for communication or as improvised weapons.
• Complimentary cards from ACP Christian Tetteh Yohuno (former Deputy Accra Regional Police Commander) and Chief Superintendent C.A. Wlemegah (Director of Transport): Suggest attempts to bolster false credentials.

Owning the uniform since 2022 indicates a pattern, not a one-off act, raising questions about prior unchecked incidents at funerals and events.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For attendees at events like ShattaFest, spotting fake police officers in Ghana is essential. Here’s verifiable guidance based on Ghana Police Service protocols:

How to Verify Legitimate Police

• Check for official ID with photo, name, rank, and service number.
• Legitimate officers carry warrant cards; demand to see it.
• Report suspicions to event security or dial Ghana Police emergency line 18555.
• Uniforms must have proper insignia; ASP rank includes specific shoulder epaulettes.

Event Security Tips

Organizers should vet all security personnel via licensed firms registered with the Ghana Police Council. Use wristbands or vests for private guards to distinguish from police. Public education campaigns, like those by the Ghana Police Service, promote awareness of impersonation risks at concerts.

Individuals in security roles must obtain permits for any replica gear from authorities to avoid charges.

Points of Caution

Police impersonation dangers extend beyond deception:

• Public safety risks: Fake officers may extort money, harass attendees, or fail to respond to real threats.
• Trust erosion: Incidents like this at ShattaFest damage faith in Ghana Police Service.
• Legal pitfalls for security guards: Wearing similar attire without clearance invites arrest under strict laws.
• Event disruptions: Crowds at Black Star Square could panic if deceived by imposters.

Crowds should avoid complying with solo “officers” without verification, especially at night during peak concert hours.

Comparison

This case aligns with patterns of uniform impersonation in Ghana. For instance, Ghana Police Service reports frequent seizures of fake uniforms at markets and events. Unlike high-profile cases involving armed gangs, Nelson’s involved non-lethal props like a toy pistol, focusing on psychological intimidation.

Vs. Other Ghana Incidents

ShattaFest’s visibility amplified scrutiny compared to routine arrests.

Legal Implications

Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), governs this. Section 248 penalizes impersonating a public officer with up to 5 years imprisonment. Section 254 addresses unauthorized possession of police accoutrements, including uniforms, with similar penalties. Nelson’s charges fit precisely: no lawful authority proven, and false pretense to the public.

Court Proceedings

Not guilty plea allows full trial. Bail continuation (GH₵50,000, two sureties) reflects non-violent nature, but conviction could lead to custody. Prosecution must prove intent via uniform history and items seized.

Broader Ramifications

Convictions deter copycats; Ghana Police Act, 1970 (Act 350), mandates uniform control. Private security firms face liability for untrained staff mimicking police.

Conclusion

The arraignment of Akoto Nelson for posing as a cop at ShattaFest serves as a stark reminder of impersonation threats at Ghana’s vibrant public events. With facts from GNA and court records, this incident stresses verification, legal compliance, and robust security. As investigations proceed, it reinforces Ghana Police Service’s role in safeguarding concerts like ShattaFest. Stay informed on fake police Ghana to protect yourself—report suspicions promptly.

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