In a concerning case of alleged fraud, a 43-year-old man, identified as Mahama Sani Razak, has been remanded by Circuit Court Eleven in Accra for reportedly impersonating a soldier and defrauding a businessman of GH¢192,000.00 under false pretenses. The accused, who also goes by the name Major Zack Gariba Tanko, is expected to reappear before the court on February 10, 2026.
Razak is facing charges of defrauding Mr. Lambon Justice Iddrisu, a businessman residing in North Legon, by claiming he could provide military security to protect the complainant’s land at Kwabenya from harassment by land guards. He denied the charges during his initial appearance in court.
The court’s proceedings revealed that Razak introduced himself as a military officer stationed at Burma Camp with the rank of Major in the Ghana Armed Forces. He allegedly convinced Mr. Iddrisu that he had the authority to deploy junior military personnel to safeguard the complainant’s property. Based on this representation, Mr. Iddrisu agreed to Razak’s proposal and transferred GH¢192,000.00 to him through three MTN Mobile Money accounts provided by the accused.
However, after receiving the funds, Razak reportedly failed to deliver on his promise and went into hiding. Investigations conducted by the complainant revealed that Razak was not affiliated with the Ghana Armed Forces, prompting Mr. Iddrisu to report the matter to the police.
During his appearance in court, Razak arrived on crutches, claiming he had sustained injuries during his arrest. The court directed the prosecution to ensure that the accused is sent for medical examination.
Chief Inspector Ebenezer Teye-Okuffo, who presented the case, disclosed that investigations further revealed one of the Mobile Money accounts used belonged to Razak’s wife. Upon interrogation, she admitted to withdrawing money on behalf of her husband.
The accused had previously been arraigned before Circuit Court Three in July 2025 on similar charges of fraud. Although he pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of GH¢300,000.00 with two justified sureties, he absconded after meeting the bail conditions. Consequently, the case was struck out in November 2025 due to lack of prosecution.
In January 2026, Razak was apprehended at Akuse in the Eastern Region in connection with another alleged fraudulent activity. A fresh charge sheet was filed against him, leading to his current appearance before Circuit Court Eleven.
During the hearing, defense counsel Mr. Theophilus Donkor argued for bail, emphasizing that Razak is a businessman owning multiple properties and shops in East Legon and is married to four women, three of whom are police officers. He maintained that Razak is presumed innocent until proven guilty and requires medical attention due to alleged assault during his arrest.
The prosecution opposed the bail application, describing Razak as a fugitive with a history of absconding and posing a significant flight risk if granted bail.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of verifying credentials and exercising caution when entering into agreements involving substantial financial transactions. The court’s decision on February 10, 2026, will determine the next steps in this matter.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
