Cameroonian Arrested in Ashanti Region for Alleged Internet Fraud and Human Trafficking Scheme

The Ashanti Regional Police Command has apprehended a 29-year-old Cameroonian national, Bella Merie, along with 43 other Cameroonian individuals, in connection with an alleged internet fraud and human trafficking operation. The arrest took place on Monday, April 7, 2025, at approximately 9:00 am at a residence in Kenyasi Abrem within the Ashanti Region.

According to a press release issued today by the Public Affairs Unit of the Ashanti Regional Police Headquarters, preliminary investigations suggest that Bella Merie allegedly collected a total of four million, five hundred thousand CFA Francs (CFA 4,500,000) from the victims. Fraudsters allegedly promised 32 males and 11 females employment opportunities under false pretences.

The police revealed that their investigation shows the fraudulent scheme involved a known internet scam method called Q-NET.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Godwin Ahianyo, Head of the Public Affairs Unit for the Ashanti Region, stated in the press release: “The Ashanti Regional Police Command on Monday, 7th April 2025, at 9:00 am, arrested suspect Bella Merie, a 29-year-old Cameroonian national, along with forty-three (43) other Cameroonians at a residence located at Kenyasi Abrem in the Ashanti Region.”

He further added, “Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect collected a total sum of four million, five hundred thousand CFA Francs (4,500,000 CFA) from the victims, comprising thirty-two (32) males and eleven (11) females, under the false pretence of securing employment opportunities.”

Q-Net at the Heart of Scam

DSP Ahianyo also highlighted the method used in the alleged scam: “Further investigation has revealed that the suspect orchestrated this fraudulent scheme through a known internet scam method popularly referred to as Q-NET.”

After the arrest, the authorities handed over all individuals involved, including the suspect and the victims aged between 22 and 38, to the Ghana Immigration Service at the Regional Headquarters for the necessary immigration processes and repatriation to their home country.

“All individuals involved both suspect and victims, aged between twenty-two (22) and thirty-eight (38) have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service at the Regional Headquarters for the necessary immigration processes and repatriation to their home country,” DSP Ahianyo confirmed.

The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to combating fraud and ensuring the safety and welfare of both Ghanaian citizens and foreign nationals within the country. “The Ghana Police Service reiterates its commitment to fighting fraud and protecting the safety and welfare of both citizens and foreign nationals within the country,” the press release concluded.

Background on Q-NET Scams:

The police press release highlights “Q-NET,” indicating a well-documented multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme linked to fraudulent activities worldwide, including in Africa. QNet officially presents itself as a legitimate e-commerce based direct selling company, yet it faces numerous allegations and warnings from authorities and consumer protection agencies in various countries.

Reports frequently highlight QNet’s recruitment tactics as deceptive, luring individuals with promises of high returns and lucrative business opportunities. These tactics often require significant upfront fees and encourage members to recruit others to ascend the “network” and earn commissions. Critics and authorities label it a pyramid scheme, generating profits primarily from recruiting new members instead of selling actual products or services.

Several African countries, including those neighbouring Ghana, have documented cases linking QNet to fraud. Individuals have lost significant amounts of money after receiving promises of jobs or high returns on investments that never materialise. These schemes often target vulnerable individuals seeking employment or financial improvement. The promise of quick wealth and the pressure to recruit others are common characteristics of these operations.

A Much Bigger Problem

The press release does not explicitly detail the specifics of the Q-NET operation in this case, but it strongly suggests a connection to known fraudulent MLM practices. Victims are deceived into paying money with false promises of future employment and financial gain. The promise of “employment opportunities” to the victims aligns with common recruitment tactics used by such schemes.

The swift action by the Ashanti Regional Police and the subsequent handover to the Ghana Immigration Service highlight the authorities’ commitment to tackling both internet fraud and potential human trafficking elements often associated with such deceptive recruitment practices. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of online scams and the importance of due diligence when presented with seemingly lucrative opportunities.

Mimi Mefo Info