Samuel Inkoom, a former defender for Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, has been granted bail in the sum of GHC100,000 with two sureties by an Accra court over allegations of visa fraud. The court, presided over by Mrs. Susana Eduful, stipulated that each surety must earn not less than GHC5,000. Additionally, Inkoom is required to deposit his passport photograph with the court's registry.
Allegations and Charges
Inkoom is accused of accepting $4,000 from Madam Elizabeth Atarime Mboh Awuni under the pretense of securing a U.S. visa for her client. He allegedly made similar representations to another complainant, Madam Abigail Owusu, from whom he purportedly took $2,000 with the promise of obtaining a U.S. visa. Both complainants are residents of Oyarifa, Accra.
Details of the Case However, after the promised six to eight weeks elapsed without the visas being procured, Inkoom allegedly became untraceable, prompting the complainants to suspect foul play and report the matter to the police. Upon his arrest, Inkoom admitted to receiving the funds and claimed he had forwarded the money to a partner in the United States to facilitate the visa process. Despite this assertion, he failed to provide any information to substantiate his claim, leading investigators to consider his statements as fabrications. Further investigations revealed that Inkoom had no such partner in the U.S., suggesting that his representations were false and intended to defraud the victims. Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
During the court proceedings, Inkoom pleaded not guilty to the charges. The presiding judge granted him bail with the conditions mentioned earlier and scheduled the next court appearance for January 22, 2025.
Background on Samuel Inkoom
Inkoom is accused of accepting $4,000 from Madam Elizabeth Atarime Mboh Awuni under the pretense of securing a U.S. visa for her client. He allegedly made similar representations to another complainant, Madam Abigail Owusu, from whom he purportedly took $2,000 with the promise of obtaining a U.S. visa. Both complainants are residents of Oyarifa, Accra.
According to Police Chief Inspector Tetteh Boafo, Inkoom met Madam Awuni in December 2023 at Achimota while scouting for young football talents. During their conversation, Inkoom claimed he was involved in travel and tour services and could secure U.S. and Canadian visas for interested individuals within six weeks for a fee of $4,000. Convinced by his representation, Madam Awuni paid him $4,000 to secure a U.S. visa for her client. Similarly, Madam Owusu parted with $2,000 after receiving the same assurances from Inkoom.
During the court proceedings, Inkoom pleaded not guilty to the charges. The presiding judge granted him bail with the conditions mentioned earlier and scheduled the next court appearance for January 22, 2025.
Samuel Inkoom is a professional footballer who has played for various clubs internationally and was a member of Ghana's national team, the Black Stars. He has had a notable career, including participation in major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. These recent allegations mark a significant departure from his athletic achievements, bringing his off-field activities under legal scrutiny.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
Visa fraud is a serious offense that undermines immigration systems and can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. The court's decision to grant bail allows Inkoom temporary freedom while the legal process continues. The upcoming court date on January 22, 2025, will provide further clarity on the case as both the prosecution and defense present their arguments.
Public Reaction
The news of Inkoom's arrest and subsequent bail has garnered significant attention, given his status as a former national football player. Public opinion is divided, with some expressing disappointment over the allegations, while others urge caution, emphasizing the principle of 'innocent until proven guilty.'
As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and the legal repercussions of fraudulent activities. The outcome of the proceedings will not only impact Inkoom's personal and professional life but also serve as a precedent in matters related to visa fraud in Ghana.
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