Businessman before tribunal for visa scandal

An Accra Circuit Tribunal on Monday slapped a five million-cedi fine on Nana Yamoah Gyebi, a businessman, for defrauding one Anthony Brew-Smith unemployed of 3,000 dollars under the pretext of securing an American visa for him.

If the fine is paid, 2.5 million cedis will be given to Mr Brew-Smith.

The accused was also ordered to refund the 3,000 US dollars in default of which he will go to jail for three years with hard labour. Gyebi pleaded not guilty to defrauding by false pretences.

The court heard that in 1998 Mr Brew-Smith decided to travel to USA and therefore contacted Gyebi who deceived him that he had been helping people to secure visas to various countries. As a result Mr Brew agreed to pay 6,000 dollars demanded by the accused.

According to the prosecution, Mr Brew-Smith immediately made 3,000 dollars as a part payment and promised to pay the rest of the money after the visa was procured.

The prosecution said Gyebi absconded after collecting the money but was arrested at a hideout in Accra.