A suspected romance scammer has been arrested in Ghana after allegedly posing as a pastor to defraud multiple women with fake marriage promises — and the story is a reminder for everyone across West Africa to stay vigilant online.
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The Ghana Police Service has arrested a man identified as Nana Yaw Bonsu Kwarteng for allegedly running a sophisticated romance scam that targeted women using one of the most trusted titles in our society — Pastor.
Yes, you read that right. This man allegedly wrapped himself in the garment of a “man of God” to gain the trust of unsuspecting women, wooed them with sweet promises of marriage, and then turned around to defraud them. As if that was not enough, he is also accused of non-consensually sharing intimate images of his victims — a deeply violating and criminal act.
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How the Scam Worked
For many of us in Nigeria and across West Africa, we know how much weight the title “Pastor” carries. Call yourself a pastor, and doors open. Trust is given freely. Mothers start asking when you’re coming for introduction.
That is exactly the vulnerability this suspect allegedly exploited.
By posing as a pastor, Kwarteng reportedly built emotional connections with women, earning their trust over time before making promises of marriage — the kind of promises that make a woman start planning her aso-ebi colours. Once he had them emotionally invested, the defrauding began.
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The Sextortion Angle — A Growing Menace
What makes this case particularly disturbing is the alleged non-consensual sharing of intimate images. This practice — sometimes called sextortion or revenge porn — is becoming an increasingly dangerous tool used by online fraudsters across Africa.
Victims are often too ashamed to speak up, which is exactly what these criminals count on. They use the threat of exposure to extort more money or simply destroy reputations out of spite.
If you or someone you know has experienced this, please know: it is not your fault, and you should report it to the appropriate authorities.
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A Warning for Everyone — Nigeria Inclusive
Before our Ghanaian brothers and sisters start feeling alone on this one, let’s be honest — romance scams are everywhere, and Nigeria has seen its own fair share of these stories, both as perpetrators and victims.
Whether it’s someone claiming to be a General Overseer on Instagram, a “successful businessman” on Facebook, or a “widowed engineer” on WhatsApp, the script is often the same:
– 🚩 They claim a highly respected or sympathetic identity
– 🚩 They move very fast emotionally — “I’ve never felt this way before, my dear”
– 🚩 Marriage talk comes up suspiciously early
– 🚩 They always have a reason why they can’t video call clearly
– 🚩 Money requests follow, often disguised as emergencies
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How to Protect Yourself
In this age of social media and dating apps, protecting your heart AND your wallet requires wisdom. Here are a few tips:
1. Verify, verify, verify — A real pastor has a church. Ask for it. Google it. Show up unannounced if you have to.
2. Never send money to someone you haven’t met physically — No matter how fine the story sounds.
3. Be careful what intimate content you share online — Once it leaves your phone, you lose control of it.
4. Trust your instincts — If something feels off, it probably is.
5. Talk to trusted friends or family — Scammers thrive in secrecy. Bring things to light.
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The Arrest and What Comes Next
Kwarteng is currently in the custody of the Ghana Police Service as investigations continue. Authorities have not yet disclosed the full number of victims or the total amount defrauded.
This arrest is a step in the right direction, and it sends a clear message — whether you carry a Bible or a laptop, crime will catch up with you.
Stay safe out there. Real love does not come with a price tag, and genuine men of God do not need to scam anyone. Share this story to protect someone in your circle.
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