Bono Regional Police Arrest Suspect in Massive GH¢1.1 Million Fake Gold Scam at Berekum

The Bono Regional Police Command successfully apprehended 36-year-old Gyamfi Christian on August 17, 2026, following a detailed intelligence-led operation that tracked him to his hideout in Wamfie, located within the Dormaa East District. His arrest stems from a formal complaint lodged by 29-year-old Christopher Awuni, a gold aggregator who reported being swindled by a group of four men posing as legitimate sellers in July 2026.

According to investigations, the victim paid GH¢1.1 million for 110 troy ounces of what he believed to be genuine gold, only for subsequent laboratory testing to reveal that the entire consignment was counterfeit. During his interrogation, the suspect, Gyamfi Christian, reportedly admitted his role in the fraudulent deal and disclosed that the transaction was finalized at Drobo in the Jaman South Municipality.

Furthermore, the suspect identified three other key members of the operation: a leader known as Abraham (alias "Frenchman"), Isaac Antwi, and Balthazar, all of whom managed to evade initial capture and remain at large. The investigation has since broadened, with preliminary findings suggesting this same syndicate may be responsible for another separate scam earlier this year, where a different victim was defrauded of approximately GH¢1.4 million in a similar gold-related scheme at Drobo.

The Police have officially retained the fake gold as evidence while they continue to pursue the remaining fugitives to bring the full scope of this organized crime to light. Highlighting the severity of the situation, the Police stated that the consignment was “subsequently tested and found to be fake”, prompting an urgent warning to all stakeholders in the industry.

As the search for the remaining members of the "Frenchman" syndicate continues, the Bono Regional Police Command is urging the public to be extremely cautious. These multi-million cedi scams not only cause devastating financial loss to individuals but also damage the integrity of Ghana's legitimate gold trade.

To protect your investments, always verify gold through authorized and credible channels before making any payments. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of the fugitives or notice any suspicious activities, please report them immediately to the nearest police station or use the official Ghana Police Service contact channels.