The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has cautioned the public, particularly the youth, against visa ponzi schemes luring people to travel abroad under false pretences. 

The ministry, in a statement issued yesterday, also said cases of fraudulent activities of individuals and networks associated with QNET, making travel and employment promises to unsuspecting individuals had increased.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ghana wishes to caution the public, particularly Ghanaian youth, against the activities of individuals and networks associated with QNET and similar schemes.

“The Ministry has observed with concern the increasing incidents of Ghanaian nationals who are being lured to travel outside the country under false pretences, including promises of employment opportunities, business prospects, and assistance in securing European visas,” it said.

It stressed that these deceptive schemes had resulted in several victims being stranded, detained by foreign immigration authorities, or subjected to distressing and exploitative conditions abroad.

The ministry has therefore advised Ghanaians to exercise extreme caution and to verify all travel, recruitment, and business offers through appropriate and official channels before making any financial commitments or travelling abroad.

Education

The MFA also urged parents, guardians and community leaders to support efforts to educate the public on the dangers of associating with such schemes.

It called on the public to report any suspicious activities to the MFA or appropriate security agencies immediately.

“Suspicious activities should be reported promptly to the Ministry via the following contacts: consular@mfa.gov.gh / +233204552750 or the relevant security and immigration authorities,” it stated.

Commitment

The ministry assured the public of its commitment to restraining criminal networks associated with these fraudulent activities.

“The Ministry remains committed to working with relevant national institutions to protect the welfare of Ghanaian citizens and to curb the activities of criminal networks who prey on unsuspecting individuals,” it added.