Ghana Temporarily Closes Washington D.C. Embassy Amidst Visa Fraud Scandal

Ghana has temporarily shut down its embassy in Washington D.C. and recalled all foreign affairs staff following a significant visa fraud scandal. The closure, expected to last “a few days” for a “restructuring and systems overhaul,” comes after an audit revealed alleged corruption.

According to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a locally recruited staff member and their accomplices are accused of operating a fraudulent scheme for five years. They allegedly created an unauthorized link on the embassy’s website, diverting visa and passport applicants to a private firm.This firm reportedly charged unapproved additional fees, ranging from $30 to $60, which the staff member then deposited into a private account. The matter has been reported to the attorney-general for potential prosecution and fund recovery, with all locally recruited staff suspended and foreign ministry staff recalled. Ghana’s government, under President John Mahama, has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on corruption.

Sources: Punchng.com, Africanews.com, BBC News