PTAAM-Africa calls for probe into alleged World Cup visa fraud

The Positive Transparency and Accountability Movement-Africa (PTAAM-Africa) is calling on the government to launch a thorough investigation into allegations of visa fraud linked to travel arrangements for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The group says the allegations, which involve claims that some individuals exploited World Cup travel arrangements to defraud unsuspecting Ghanaians, raise serious concerns about the integrity of the country's immigration system and its international reputation.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 12, 2026, and signed by its President, Ebenezer K. Havor, PTAAM-Africa urged the Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ghana Immigration Service and National Security to collaborate in investigating the matter.

The movement warned that if proven, "such fraudulent activities could damage Ghana's international image, undermine confidence in its passport and immigration systems, and expose victims to human trafficking risks."

It is therefore demanding a transparent investigation to establish the facts and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full rigours of the law.

PTAAM-Africa also called for the protection of alleged victims and cautioned the media and the public against making unsubstantiated accusations.

The group stressed that all allegations must be supported by credible evidence, while individuals implicated in the matter must be given a fair hearing.

The call follows growing controversy over visa arrangements involving the National Sports Authority, Ghana Tourism Authority, Ministry of Sports and Recreation and private entity TRIBE Culture Fest.

The controversy intensified after the Minority in Parliament raised concerns about lists of individuals allegedly submitted to foreign embassies for travel connected to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ranking Member on Parliament's Youth and Sports Committee, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, alleged that only 15 out of 102 individuals presented to the Canadian Embassy as National Sports Authority personnel or affiliates could be verified against the authority's records.

The controversy has since led to the suspension of National Sports Authority Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, pending further investigations.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has denied any wrongdoing and maintained that the ongoing investigation should establish the facts and hold anyone found culpable accountable.

AM

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