11 arrested over alleged AI deepfake scam impersonating President Mahama

2026-05-07 · Source: Welcome to the Artificial Intelligence Incident Database · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity & Data Privacy · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

The Ghana Police Service's Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team (CVET) arrested 11 individuals, including Nigerian nationals, between May 1 and 4, 2026, for an alleged AI deepfake scam. The group reportedly used AI-generated videos to impersonate John Dramani Mahama, fraudulently soliciting money and personal information online. Coordinated operations across Sogakope, Dabala, Tongu, Akatsi, and Aflao in the Volta Region led to the arrests. Among the suspects are Raphael Ablordeppey (32) and Bishop Esiri (46). Police seized laptop computers, mobile phones, internet routers, 120 pre-registered SIM cards, and a Nigerian-registered Mercedes-Benz ML 350. Preliminary investigations suggest this group is part of a larger cybercrime network. Nine suspects were remanded into police custody until May 25, 2026, while two minors, Thomas Ayoyo (17) and Louis Segbawu (18), were granted bail.

Key takeaway

For policymakers and law enforcement agencies combating cybercrime, this incident underscores the immediate threat of AI deepfakes in high-profile impersonation scams. You must prioritize developing robust digital forensics capabilities and international cooperation frameworks to track and dismantle sophisticated cybercrime networks exploiting AI. Consider public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on verifying digital content authenticity and reporting suspicious online solicitations.

Key insights

AI deepfake technology is being actively exploited by cybercrime networks for high-profile impersonation and financial fraud.

Method

Suspects used AI-generated deepfake videos to impersonate high-profile individuals, then solicited money and personal information from the public via online platforms.

Topics

• AI Deepfakes
• Cybercrime
• Impersonation Fraud
• Law Enforcement
• Digital Forensics
• Ghana Police Service

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Welcome to the Artificial Intelligence Incident Database.