In a dramatic turn of events, the Accra Circuit Court 3 has granted bail to two individuals embroiled in a GH¢700,000 gold scam that allegedly involved spiritual rituals, deceit, and violent robbery. The case has captured national attention due to its intricate web of false pretences and the exploitation of trust.
The accused persons, Joshua Adamptey (A1), a 30-year-old mason, and Erasmus Billow (A2), a 45-year-old pastor associated with Increased Ministry in Spintex, were each granted bail in the sum of GH¢100,000. Presiding Judge Susan Eduful stipulated that the sureties must provide title deeds to properties, which will remain in custody of the court registry until the final determination of the case. The court has adjourned proceedings to October 14, 2025.
Allegations of Deceit and Rituals
The prosecution team, led by Inspector Wemegah and Inspector Clement Acquah, presented a detailed account of how the complainant, Mr. Yarkeeni Iddrisu, a Spintex-based driver, was allegedly defrauded. According to their statement, Mr. Iddrisu was enticed into a fraudulent gold deal orchestrated by the accused persons.
The narrative began in August 2024 when Pastor Erasmus Billow (A2), a long-time acquaintance of the complainant, convinced him to invest in what appeared to be a lucrative gold inheritance. A2 claimed that his associates—Joshua Adamptey (A1) and Albert (currently at large)—had inherited a substantial quantity of gold from their late mother. To bolster credibility, A2 asserted that he had personally verified the existence of the gold in Somanya.
Trusting his friend and motivated by the promise of high returns, Mr. Iddrisu raised a total of GH¢700,000 through loans and proceeds from selling his car. The funds were reportedly handed over to the accused for what was described as a purification process involving oils and spiritual rituals.
A Violent Twist
The situation took an alarming turn when Mr. Iddrisu was invited to Somanya for a "spiritual bath," purportedly necessary to access the gold. During the ritual, a gang believed to be associated with the accused emerged from the bush and attacked Mr. Iddrisu. Armed with scissors, they robbed him of GH¢6,000 in cash, seized his mobile phone, and transferred an additional GH¢11,000 from his mobile money account.
Shaken by the ordeal, Mr. Iddrisu lodged a complaint at the Baatsonaa Police Station on August 15, 2025. The police swiftly acted, arresting Pastor Erasmus Billow (A2), who was later granted police inquiry bail. Joshua Adamptey (A1) was apprehended on September 6, 2025, after being traced to his hideout in Somanya.
Admissions and Remaining Questions
In his caution statement, A1 admitted receiving funds from both the complainant and A2. He acknowledged receiving GH¢200,000 but claimed that he had sent this amount to his "spiritual father" in Benin. This revelation has raised further questions about the true nature of the scam and its potential links to other individuals or organizations.
The third accused person, Albert, remains at large, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Legal Proceedings Continue
As the case unfolds, all eyes are on the Accra Circuit Court for further developments. The next hearing is scheduled for October 14, 2025, where more details are expected to emerge about this elaborate scam and its impact on the victim.
This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of fraudulent schemes and misplaced trust. It underscores the importance of due diligence when engaging in financial transactions, especially those involving high-value assets like gold.
Stay tuned for updates on this case as justice takes its course.
-thechronicleonline
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
