The Office of the National Chief Imam has distanced itself from an alleged visa racketeering scandal involving individuals impersonating officials of the office in a bid to secure visas from the United States Embassy in Ghana.
In a statement issued by the Advisory Board and signed by Dr. Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo, Personal Assistant to the National Chief Imam, and issued on Friday, April 25, the office described the development as criminal and deeply disturbing.
According to the statement, the issue arose when the National Chief Imam, on medical advice, planned a trip to the United States for treatment and intended to travel with three persons from his residence.
However, one of the individuals, identified as Abdur Rahman Umar Farooq, popularly known as “Paa,” allegedly expanded the list to include five additional persons, bringing the total number of visa applicants to nine.
The Advisory Board expressed outrage over what it described as a “Gang of Six,” comprising Paa and his associates, who are accused of impersonating key officials within the Office of the National Chief Imam to facilitate the scheme.
The statement indicated that Paa falsely presented himself as Secretary to the Chief Imam, while another individual reportedly impersonated Sergeant Razak Giwah, the Chief Imam’s bodyguard.
The Office of the National Chief Imam has firmly dissociated itself from the actions of the group, stressing that it bears no responsibility for any illegal activities carried out by the suspects.
It has consequently called on the United States Embassy in Ghana to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves and to disregard any representations made by the individuals involved.
The office further urged the Criminal Investigation Department of the Ghana Police Service to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter and take appropriate legal action against those found culpable.
Additionally, all embassies, high commissions, and consulates have been advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant in dealing with the individuals implicated in the alleged scheme.
The Advisory Board assured the public of its commitment to pursuing the matter to its logical conclusion in order to protect the reputation of the National Chief Imam, maintain strong relations with the diplomatic community, and uphold public confidence in the office.
