Woman allegedly defrauds 26 applicants of GH¢675,000 in military recruitment scam

A 41-year-old ward assistant, Patience Mbaye, faces charges in an Accra court for allegedly orchestrating a recruitment scam targeting the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). Mbaye is accused of collecting GH¢675,000 from 26 individuals, promising them positions within the GAF.

The prosecution, led by Inspector Frank Morgan Dorvi, alleges that Mbaye collaborated with Ex-Senior Warrant Officer Jeffery Naboung, who is now a fugitive. Naboung is implicated in a separate but similar scheme, reportedly collecting GH¢1,005,000 from 47 applicants under the same false pretenses. Both Mbaye and Naboung face joint charges of conspiracy to commit crime and multiple counts of defrauding by false pretenses.

Mbaye pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court granted her bail set at GH¢100,000, requiring three verified sureties, including a public servant. She must also report to the case investigator twice weekly. The court has adjourned the case to July 27, 2026.

Complainants, including a prison officer and a motorcycle taxi rider, reportedly met Mbaye between 2023 and 2024. Mbaye allegedly claimed to have connections within the GAF, assuring potential recruits of her and Naboung's ability to facilitate their enlistment. Funds were allegedly transferred to bank accounts provided by Naboung, but the promised recruitment never materialized, and the money was not refunded despite demands.