- Convict: Abdul Manaf Lawal, 32, sentenced to 35 years imprisonment with hard labour.
- Crime: Defrauded a complainant of $50,000, promising to convert it into Ghana cedis but disappearing instead.
- Arrest: Picked up in Accra on June 27, 2025, during investigations into a similar case.
- Trial: Initially pleaded not guilty but later changed plea to guilty on September 3, 2025.
- Criminal Record: Previously served 24 months for theft, which influenced his sentencing.
- Judgment: Delivered by Asokwa Circuit Court in Kumasi, presided over by Mr. Fred Obikyere.
A 32-year-old man, Abdul Manaf Lawal, has been handed a 35-year prison sentence with hard labour by the Asokwa Circuit Court in Kumasi for a fraudulent currency deal that cost a victim $50,000.
Lawal tricked a complainant into handing over the cash with the promise of converting it into the Ghana cedi equivalent. Instead of honouring the agreement, he absconded with the money and went into hiding.
The police launched extensive investigations, which led to his arrest in Accra on June 27, 2025, where he was linked to another similar case. He was later transferred to the Ashanti Regional Police Command for further investigations.
Lawal was formally charged and brought before Asokwa Circuit Court 1, presided over by Mr. Fred Obikyere. Initially, he pleaded not guilty and was remanded into custody. However, on September 3, 2025, he altered his plea to guilty.
The prosecution also revealed that Lawal had a criminal history, having previously served a two-year jail term for theft. His prior conviction weighed heavily on the court’s decision.
On September 10, 2025, the court delivered its final judgment, sentencing him to 35 years in prison with hard labour.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command confirmed the sentencing in a statement signed by DSP Godwin Ahianyo, the regional PRO, stressing that the punishment should serve as a deterrent to others engaged in fraudulent activities.
