Viral Video Shows Alleged Galamsey Kingpin Showering Cash on Late Daddy Lumba

A long-circulated video of Iddrisu Zakari, widely known as Yaayaa and allegedly involved in illegal mining activities, lavishly spraying cash on the late Ghanaian Highlife legend Daddy Lumba has gone viral following his recent arrest.

The footage, taken during a performance at the De Ofosu Plaza Hotel in Koforidua on an Easter Saturday, captures Iddrisu dancing on stage while tossing large wads of cedi notes over the performing musician. Audience members rushed forward to grab the scattered money as the late singer delivered one of his iconic songs. Estimates suggest that over GH₵20,000 was sprayed during the performance, marking one of the most extravagant public displays of cash in recent entertainment history.

The resurfacing of the video comes shortly after Iddrisu Zakari was taken into custody by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Squad (NAIMOS) on November 10, 2025. The arrest is linked to his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities around the Osino Residential Area.

Investigations revealed that the operation followed a raid conducted by NAIMOS on November 7, 2025, which saw the shutdown of his alleged galamsey site. During the raid, two Nigerian nationals and four armed Ghanaian guards associated with Iddrisu’s operations were also detained.

According to reports from investigative sources, Iddrisu had arranged to meet NAIMOS officials in a bid to negotiate the release of some detained associates and to discuss halting the ongoing investigation into his mining activities. His apprehension was the culmination of this planned engagement, raising questions about the extent of his influence and operations prior to law enforcement intervention.

The viral video has reignited public interest in the activities of individuals involved in illegal mining, juxtaposing past displays of opulence with the ongoing crackdown on unlawful mineral extraction. Social media users and entertainment enthusiasts have reacted to the footage, with many noting the stark contrast between the extravagance on stage and the legal scrutiny he now faces.

This incident underscores the growing public attention on illegal mining in Ghana, the consequences for those implicated, and the intersection of entertainment, wealth display, and law enforcement accountability in high-profile cases.