Two men from Nalerigu in the North East Region have been apprehended by the Savannah Regional Police for allegedly impersonating the King and Overlord of the Mamprugu Kingdom, Nayiri Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, in a failed attempt to defraud the Savannah Regional Minister, Mr. Salisu Be-Awuribe.
According to a report from Bole-based Nkilgi FM, the suspects initially contacted the minister by phone, using a voice impersonation of the Nayiri to request financial assistance. The pair later traveled to Damongo, dressed smartly, and met the minister in person, claiming the Nayiri had sent them to seek support for a trip to Accra.
Out of reverence for traditional authority particularly as his grandfather, Yagbonwura Iddi Jakpa Be-Awuribe, was once King of the Gonja Kingdom the minister provided funds to cover their travel and accommodation costs.
However, doubts emerged when the suspects returned with a suspicious message allegedly from the Nayiri, involving a supposed ritual to spiritually “fortify” the minister. This raised red flags, prompting the minister to alert the police, resulting in their arrest.
Further investigations revealed the duo had a history of similar scams dating back to the early years of the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, having deceived several government officials in the past.
This incident highlights the critical need for government officials to exercise caution and verify claims thoroughly, especially when dealing with individuals claiming to represent traditional rulers.
Source: nkilgifmonline.com
