Ghana shuts down Washington D.C. Embassy over visa fraud scandal

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced a crackdown on corruption at the embassy in Washington, D.C. This includes dismissing a staff member involved in an illegal visa scheme.

On May 26, he posted on Facebook about the temporary closure of the embassy. An investigation revealed that local staff member Fred Kwarteng diverted visa and passport applicants to his private firm, Ghana Travel Consultants (GTC).

Kwarteng worked in the embassy’s IT department since 2017. He created an unauthorized link on the official website to reroute applicants to his business. There, he charged unapproved fees between US$29.75 and US$60 for personal gain.

During a probe by a special audit team, Kwarteng admitted his actions. The scheme has been referred to the Attorney-General for possible prosecution and fund recovery.

To restore integrity at the mission, Minister Ablakwa announced several measures. These include Kwarteng's immediate dismissal and recalling all Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff from Washington. Locally recruited staff will be suspended, and the IT department will be dissolved.

The Auditor-General will conduct a forensic audit, and the embassy will temporarily close for a systems overhaul.

“These are radical but necessary steps,” said Mr. Ablakwa. “We regret any inconvenience to visa and passport applicants.” He emphasized their commitment to fighting corruption and restoring accountability.

“President Mahama’s government will show zero tolerance for corruption,” he added.