Fake Presidential Staffer, Doctor and Army Captain Remanded Over Visa Fraud

A man accused of posing as a presidential staffer, medical doctor and army captain has been remanded into police custody by a Cape Coast Circuit Court for allegedly defrauding unsuspecting victims under the pretext of securing Canadian visas.

Multiple Fake Identities to Win Trust

The suspect, identified as Patrick Nii Torto, reportedly operated under the alias “Dr. Patrick Nelson Ayittey,” claiming to be a staff member at the Office of the Vice President, a certified medical doctor and a captain in the Ghana Armed Forces.

According to prosecutors, he used these high-profile identities to gain the confidence of individuals seeking opportunities abroad, particularly in Canada. He allegedly convinced victims that he had strong connections at the Canadian Embassy and could facilitate visa acquisition and work permits within a short period.

Thousands of Cedis Collected

Police investigations reveal that between December 2025 and January 2026, the accused collected various sums of money from victims, including GHS 5,325 and GHS 8,200, under the guise of processing travel documents. However, he allegedly failed to deliver on his promises and became evasive when pressed for results.

Arrest and Evidence Retrieved

The suspect was arrested following a complaint lodged at the Abura Police Station in Cape Coast. A search conducted at his residence reportedly uncovered about ten Ghanaian passports, birth certificates, school certificates and Ghana Cards believed to belong to different individuals.

Further investigations established that he has no affiliation with the Office of the Vice President, is not a medical doctor, and has never served in the Ghana Armed Forces.

Court Proceedings and Next Hearing

The Circuit Court presided over by Her Worship Nana Aba Quiaba Nunoo ordered that the accused be remanded into police custody to assist with ongoing investigations. He is expected to reappear before the court on March 3, 2026.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing to identify additional victims and determine whether the suspect acted alone or had accomplices.

The Ghana Police Service has once again cautioned the public to verify the credentials of individuals offering visa and travel assistance, especially those claiming to have high-level government or military connections.