Scam in GhanaTheft
Muggings outside Bywel's bar in Ghana
How it works
The bar attracts expats on Thursday nights and is identified as a target for muggings. People leaving the venue should take particular care.
Warning signs
- You are leaving alone without a taxi ready.
- You are waiting outside the bar with valuables visible.
How to avoid it
- Leave in a large group.
- Have a taxi ready and get in immediately after leaving.
- Keep your phone, cash and other valuables out of sight.
If it happens to you
Do not resist if threatened. Move to safety when you can, seek help and report the robbery.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist someone who threatens you. Call 112 if you need urgent police, fire or ambulance help.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, lock it remotely if possible and contact your mobile provider.
- Write down what happened while it is fresh. Save receipts, payment records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report theft, fraud, robbery or threats to the police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your card issuer, insurer or payment provider as needed. Ask what evidence they need and whether any loss can be recovered.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help after a serious incident.
Questions
What is the muggings outside Bywel's bar scam in Ghana?
The bar attracts expats on Thursday nights and is identified as a target for muggings. People leaving the venue should take particular care.
How can I spot it early?
You are leaving alone without a taxi ready. You are waiting outside the bar with valuables visible.
How do I avoid muggings outside Bywel's bar in Ghana?
Leave in a large group. Have a taxi ready and get in immediately after leaving. Keep your phone, cash and other valuables out of sight.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not resist if threatened. Move to safety when you can, seek help and report the robbery.
Where in Ghana does this happen?
Around Bywel's bar in Osu, especially when leaving on Thursday nights. It has been reported in Accra.
How common is this scam in Ghana?
Occasional. Ghana is generally safe, with relatively low crime levels, but visitors should watch for inflated taxi quotes and card fraud. Phone snatching, pickpocketing and muggings are also reported. Persistent beach sellers can be a nuisance, while people suspected to be gay or queer can face targeted extortion.
Are there similar scams in Ghana?
Yes: street phone snatching, pickpocketing at Kejetia Market.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 112 for urgent help. For a non-urgent theft or fraud report, approach a police station and ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze the card and report payments you did not authorise. Mobile provider: contact the provider through an official channel to block a stolen SIM and ask about protecting linked services. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and keep police reports, receipts and records of the loss. Embassy or consulate: use official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident. If facing sensitive threats or extortion, ask about confidential assistance.
What number do I call in an emergency in Ghana?
Police, fire and ambulance: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck