The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed the seizure of a 2019 Lamborghini Urus from the residence of Ghanaian dancehall musician Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, in a joint operation with the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The high-profile seizure, conducted at Shatta Wale’s Trassaco Valley Phase 1 home in Accra in June 2025, is linked to an ongoing investigation into financial crimes committed by Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian currently serving an 86-month sentence in the United States for fraud and money laundering.
EOCO’s press release stated that the operation was initiated following a 2023 request from the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice to recover assets tied to Amuah’s criminal enterprise. The 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a luxury asset, was identified as proceeds of Amuah’s multi-million-dollar fraud scheme, which involved defrauding nearly 70 public and private organizations across the U.S. through impersonation and business email compromise scams. Amuah, described by U.S. prosecutors as the leader of the conspiracy, was sentenced in October 2023 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering, with a court-ordered restitution of $4.74 million to his victims.
EOCO’s Surveillance and Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) carried out the lawful search, and the agency emphasized that the operation was conducted professionally and without incident. Shatta Wale reportedly cooperated with authorities, voluntarily surrendering the vehicle after requesting that the seizure not be publicized due to its significance to his public image and brand. EOCO noted that it is standard protocol for SARU officers to be armed during such operations for safety reasons. The vehicle is now in EOCO’s custody, and the FBI and U.S. Justice Department are expected to request its repatriation through a Mutual Legal Assistance process to satisfy the restitution order.
Shatta Wale expressed his frustration on social media, accusing EOCO officials of storming his residence with guns in an act of intimidation. In a statement, he criticized EOCO’s Acting Executive Director, Raymond Archer, and warned of political consequences for the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). He further claimed that the operation was an attempt to humiliate Ghanaian citizens.
EOCO has named Shatta Wale and a former senior officer of the National Signals Bureau as persons of interest in the ongoing investigation. Both individuals are expected to be invited for questioning to assist with further inquiries. The agency may share its final investigative report with U.S. authorities as part of continued international cooperation to combat cross-border financial crimes.
The seizure underscores Ghana’s efforts to strengthen its asset recovery and anti-money laundering framework in collaboration with international law enforcement. While no formal charges have been filed against Shatta Wale, the incident has sparked widespread public interest and debate, with fans and critics speculating about the musician’s connection to the case. EOCO reiterated its commitment to acting within its legal mandate under Ghana’s Proceeds of Crime Act and urged the public to cooperate in similar investigations.
EOCO Seizes Shatta Wale’s Lamborghini Urus in Joint Operation with FBI Over U.S. Fraud Case
EOCO Seizes Shatta Wale’s Lamborghini Urus in Major Fraud Probe
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has seized a 2019 Lamborghini Urus belonging to Ghanaian dancehall artist Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, following a collaborative operation with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Justice Department. The raid took place earlier today at Shatta Wale’s residence in Trassaco Valley Phase 1, Accra.
According to an EOCO press release issued at 6:31 PM GMT, the luxury vehicle was linked to Nana Kwabena Amuah, a convicted fraudster currently serving an 86-month sentence in the United States for multiple financial crimes. The operation, led by EOCO’s Surveillance and Asset Recovery Unit (SARU), was conducted based on a 2023 request from the FBI and U.S. Justice Department, aiming to retrieve proceeds of crime.
The seizure was carried out professionally and without incident, though Shatta Wale reportedly pleaded with officers to keep the matter discreet, citing potential damage to his public image. He was allowed to surrender the vehicle himself, which is now in EOCO’s possession. The car is slated to be returned to the United States as part of a $4,743,443 restitution order linked to Amuah’s case.
EOCO emphasized that the operation adhered to standard safety protocols, with SARU officers carrying weapons to ensure their protection. The agency also noted that Shatta Wale and a former senior officer of the National Signal Bureau (NSB) are under investigation for their potential interest in the case. Both individuals have been invited to assist EOCO in the coming days as part of ongoing inquiries, with findings to be reported to the FBI and Justice Department.
Shatta Wale, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and ownership of multiple luxury cars, including a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, has yet to issue a public statement on the seizure. The raid marks a significant development in EOCO’s efforts to combat the illegal importation of stolen vehicles, with 43 high-value cars reclaimed in Ghana between January and July 2025.
Further details are expected as the investigation continues.
Australian MP Found Guilty of Rape Fights to Retain Seat from Jail
Gareth Ward, a 44-year-old Australian politician and independent member of the New South Wales (NSW) Parliament, is engaged in a legal battle to hold onto his parliamentary seat despite being convicted of rape and indecent assault. Found guilty in July 2025 of sexually assaulting two young men, aged 18 and 24, between 2013 and 2015, Ward is currently in custody at Silverwater jail awaiting sentencing on 19 September 2025. The convictions include one count of sexual intercourse without consent, carrying a maximum penalty of 14 years, and three counts of indecent assault, each with a maximum of five years.
The NSW Parliament, led by Premier Chris Minns, planned to expel Ward from his position as the member for Kiama when the Legislative Assembly reconvened. However, Ward’s legal team secured a temporary injunction on Monday to halt the expulsion, prompting an urgent Supreme Court hearing scheduled for Thursday to address the matter. Minns, representing the Labor government, called Ward’s refusal to resign “shameless” and described the situation as “unconscionable,” highlighting the burden on taxpayers who continue to fund Ward’s salary, which exceeds AUD 170,000 annually. Opposition leader Mark Speakman, from Ward’s former Liberal Party, echoed these sentiments, stating that Ward’s insistence on remaining in parliament is “offensive” to the people of Kiama, who are left without effective representation.
Ward, who has represented Kiama since 2011, resigned from the Liberal Party and his role as Minister for Families, Communities, and Disability Services in 2021 after the allegations surfaced. Despite being charged in 2022 and suspended from parliament until March 2023, he was re-elected as an independent in the 2023 state election, albeit with a reduced majority. Ward has consistently denied the allegations and intends to appeal his convictions, arguing he should remain in parliament until the appeal process concludes. Constitutional expert Anne Twomey notes that under NSW law, Ward’s seat would only be automatically vacated if his convictions are upheld after all appeals, a process that could take years.Alternatively, parliament can expel him to protect its integrity, a rare measure last used in 1917.
The case has sparked significant controversy, with both major parties supporting Ward’s removal to restore public confidence in the parliament. The assaults, which occurred at Ward’s home and involved victims he met through political circles, have drawn widespread condemnation. One victim, prompted to report the abuse in 2020 after learning of Ward’s ministerial appointment, likened it to “a vampire running a blood bank.” If expelled, a by-election in Kiama would be triggered within 60 days, though Ward’s legal challenges could delay this process.
Ward’s refusal to resign has raised broader questions about the NSW parliament’s ability to enforce standards of conduct, with critics arguing that its mechanisms for dealing with such cases are outdated. As the Supreme Court hearing looms, the case continues to test the limits of parliamentary authority and public trust in Australia’s political institutions.
Support services for those affected by sexual abuse are available in Australia, the UK, and the US through national helplines.
Apostle Prof Opoku Onyinah Denounces Falsehoods Surrounding National Cathedral Project
Apostle Professor Opoku Onyinah, Chairman of the National Cathedral Board of Trustees and former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, has publicly condemned what he describes as “100% lies” being circulated about the National Cathedral project. Speaking at an interactive session with church leaders, Apostle Onyinah expressed deep concern over the spread of misinformation that he believes undermines the project’s credibility.
“Some of the comments are very disturbing, especially those that are absolute lies,” Apostle Onyinah stated. “Some people try to tell complete lies about the Cathedral, and some comments are 100% lies about these things.” He drew parallels to the challenges he faced while establishing the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), noting that opposition and criticism are not uncommon in large-scale religious initiatives. Despite the falsehoods, he emphasized his commitment to pursuing what he believes is God’s will for the project. “I look forward to the Lord who has told me and who wants to do something, and I believe that at least the will of God will be done,” he added.
The National Cathedral, a vision championed by President Nana Akufo-Addo to unite Ghana’s Christian community, has faced significant scrutiny since its inception. Critics have raised concerns about the project’s funding, alleging mismanagement of public resources and questioning its necessity amidst Ghana’s economic challenges. In 2023, a letter published on GhanaWeb expressed discontent among some members of the Church of Pentecost, arguing that Apostle Onyinah’s involvement in the controversial project tarnished the church’s reputation. The letter highlighted public frustration over the use of taxpayer funds for a project initially promised to cost the state nothing.
However, Apostle Onyinah has previously defended the project, describing it as a “very good concept” in 2018, emphasizing its potential to foster unity among Ghana’s Christian majority. He clarified that the project is a partnership between the state and the church, with the state responsible for key decisions such as selecting the architect and land.
Recent developments have added complexity to the project’s trajectory. Following a Deloitte and Touche audit of the National Cathedral Secretariat’s operations from 2021 to 2023, President John Dramani Mahama ordered the dissolution of the Secretariat as of May 1, 2025, citing financial irregularities and procurement breaches. The audit’s findings, described as rocking “the very foundation of the project,” prompted the government to initiate a forensic audit and legal steps to terminate the project’s contract to prevent further costs to the state.
Despite these setbacks, Apostle Onyinah remains steadfast. In a letter dated September 24, 2024, he announced that Deloitte Ghana’s audit for the period ending December 31, 2020, found no adverse findings, confirming that proper financial records were maintained in accordance with the Companies Act, 2019. With this clearance, preparations are underway to resume construction, and further audits for 2021 to 2023 are ongoing.
Apostle Onyinah, appointed Chairman of the National Cathedral Board of Trustees in February 2021, has a distinguished record as a Pentecostal theologian and former leader of the Church of Pentecost, where he oversaw significant growth during his 42-year ministry. His leadership in the National Cathedral project continues to spark debate, with supporters viewing it as a divine assignment and critics questioning its alignment with Ghana’s pressing needs.
Ghana Mourns Legend Daddy Lumba
The Ghanaian music industry and fans across the globe are reeling from the devastating news of the passing of Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, a towering figure in highlife music. The iconic singer-songwriter died in the early hours of Saturday, July 26, 2025, at The Bank Hospital in Accra, following a brief illness. He was 60 years old.
The Fosu family confirmed the heartbreaking news through an official statement released via Daddy Lumba’s Facebook page and his media platform, Daddy Lumba FM. “With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness,” the statement read. The family, through their legal counsel, requested privacy during this period of immense loss, noting that funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
Daddy Lumba, born on September 29, 1964, in Nsuta, Ashanti Region, was widely regarded as one of Ghana’s greatest musicians. With a career spanning nearly four decades, he released over 33 albums, including timeless classics such as *Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu*, *Aben Wo Ha*, *Sika Asɛm*, and *Wo Ho Kyere*. His music, a masterful blend of traditional highlife rhythms and contemporary sounds, resonated with generations, earning him the moniker “The Golden Voice of Ghana.”
Lumba’s journey began in the 1980s when he formed the Lumba Brothers with Nana Acheampong in Germany, where he had moved after completing his education at Juaben Senior High School. His debut album with Acheampong, *Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu*, marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him become a cultural icon. His solo work, including hits like *Theresa*, *Playboy*, and *Yentie Obiaa*, defined the soundtrack of Ghanaian life, touching on themes of love, struggle, resilience, and social issues.
The news of his passing sparked an outpouring of grief across Ghana and beyond. Social media platforms were flooded with tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and prominent figures. President John Mahama described Lumba’s music as “the soundtrack to our lives,” adding, “His enduring legacy will echo through the ages.” Former Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia called his death “a huge blow not only to the music fraternity but the entire country.” Artists like Sarkodie, Sista Afia, and M.anifest also paid their respects, with media personality Serwaa Amihere expressing her heartbreak, saying, “I am heartbroken and sad because a friend has passed. RIP to the legend, Daddy Lumba.”
Sympathizers gathered at Lumba’s East Legon residence in Accra, many dressed in black and red, mourning the loss of a man whose music inspired and uplifted millions. A fan shared, “Daddy Lumba’s songs were a great source of motivation to me.” Notable figures, including Gomoa Central MP Kwame Asare Obeng (A-Plus), were among those who visited to pay their respects.
Despite his monumental success, Lumba’s career was not without controversy. Known for his versatility, he seamlessly navigated between gospel and secular themes, occasionally stirring debate with provocative lyrics and music videos. He also faced persistent rumors, including allegations of skin bleaching, which he denied, and unfounded claims linking him to the deaths of fellow musicians like Dada KD, which his manager, Roman Fada, vehemently debunked earlier this year.
Daddy Lumba’s influence extended beyond music. In 2022, he launched DLFM, a Twi-language radio station in Accra, furthering his commitment to preserving Ghanaian culture. His live performances, often backed by vocalists like Priscilla Ofori and Derrick Ntiamoah, were celebrated for their authenticity and energy. His final public performance was a Valentine’s Day concert on February 15, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre, where he captivated audiences alongside other musicians.
As Ghana mourns, Daddy Lumba’s legacy as a pioneer of highlife music remains unshakable. His discography, which includes over 200 songs, continues to inspire artists and fans across Africa and the diaspora. From his early days with the Lumba Brothers to his solo triumphs, Lumba’s soulful voice and poignant lyrics captured the essence of Ghanaian life, making him a true cultural titan.
He leaves behind a wife, children, and a global fanbase known as the “Lumba Soldiers.” As one fan poignantly noted, “Adaka Tea by Daddy Lumba on repeat today. Life is fragile. We aren’t promised tomorrow.”
The nation awaits further details on funeral arrangements as it bids farewell to a legend whose music will forever resonate in the hearts of Ghanaians. Rest in peace, Daddy Lumba.
