Confidence tricksters defraud Mzbel of GH¢800k and £30,000 in recruitment scam

Mzbel Defrauded in Employment Scam

Ghanaian Hiplife musician Mzbel, whose real name is Belinda Nana Ekua Amoah, has fallen victim to a fraud scheme. This scheme promised overseas jobs for Ghanaian youth.

The case was heard in the Accra Circuit Court on June 5, 2025. His Honour Jojo Amoah Hagan presided over the proceedings. Mzbel reported being defrauded of GH¢829,637.00 and £30,028.53.

Janice Inez Mensah led the syndicate and is currently at large. Two accomplices have been arrested: Japheth Tete Mensah, 44, and Bernard Boakye Boateng, 34. They face charges of defrauding by false pretences under Ghana's Criminal Offences Act.

Both men pleaded not guilty and received bail. Japheth's bail is set at GH¢100,000 while Bernard's is GH¢500,000. Each must provide two sureties; one must justify with title deeds.

Details of the Scheme

DSP Emmanuel Nyamekye presented facts about the fraud scheme. Janice Inez Mensah proposed it as a way to help Ghanaians find jobs in the UK. These jobs included caregiving, salon work, and construction.

Believing in this offer, Mzbel advertised it on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. She mobilized 26 followers who expressed interest in these job opportunities.

Between March and May 2025, Mzbel and her recruits sent large sums of money to Janice and her associates. Detective Sergeant James Kwesi Turkson found that GH¢447,590 was deposited into Bernard’s account and GH¢75,443 into Japheth’s account.

These funds were withdrawn without securing any jobs for applicants. Japheth has refunded GH¢10,000 to police as investigations continue.

Charges Against the Accused

The court has filed three main charges against the accused:

1. Japheth Tete Mensah allegedly aided Janice in defrauding Mzbel of GH¢75,433.33.
2. Bernard Boakye Boateng allegedly aided Janice in defrauding Mzbel of GH¢447,590.
3. Janice Inez Mensah (currently at large) is accused of defrauding Mzbel out of GH¢829,637 and £30,028.

Next Steps

The court adjourned the case until July 14, 2025 for further investigation and proceedings. Authorities are actively searching for Janice Inez Mensah.

Mzbel has not made a public statement after the hearing but is cooperating with investigators.