The Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has initiated a formal investigation into a disturbing viral video featuring an American woman who alleges she was kidnapped and robbed by individuals posing as police officers during a snap-check operation in Accra.
The woman, identified as Arianna Naomi Mackey, claims in the footage that she was detained by the purported officers in Accra and relieved of an unspecified amount of money. The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage and concern over police conduct, was recorded and shared online, prompting swift action from authorities.
Preliminary findings from the ongoing probe reveal that the video was filmed at a hotel in Accra, where Ms. Mackey and two companions were staying. Hotel records confirm that the group checked out on December 5, 2025. Further checks at Kotoka International Airport indicate that Ms. Mackey departed Ghana on the same day, leaving the country shortly after the alleged event.
In a bid to gather more details and support the victim, police reached out to Ms. Mackey following the video’s emergence. However, she reportedly informed investigators that she was already out of the country and was unable to provide names of the alleged officers or the license plate number of the vehicle involved. She also stated that her friend in Ghana, who was present during the incident, does not wish to be involved in the probe.
Efforts to follow up have hit a wall: Ms. Mackey has since deleted the original video from her WhatsApp and has not responded to subsequent calls and messages from the investigative team, ultimately blocking their contact. Undeterred, police are now pursuing cooperation through appropriate diplomatic channels to secure her assistance.
The Ghana Police Service emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability in a statement released today. “We treat such allegations very seriously and remain committed to uncovering the facts in this case,” the service affirmed.
Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, Public Relations Officer for the CID, signed off on the press release, underscoring the department’s resolve to address the claims thoroughly.
This development comes amid heightened scrutiny of law enforcement practices in Ghana, with civil society groups calling for expedited investigations into any potential misconduct. The police have urged the public to refrain from speculation and to report any relevant information to aid the inquiry.
Updates on the investigation will be provided as they become available.
