Scam in GhanaOther tricks
Targeted extortion in Ghana
How it works
People suspected to be gay or queer can face targeting and demands for money. The exact threats, methods and people responsible are not specified.
Warning signs
- Someone demands money while threatening you.
- Someone uses your actual or assumed sexuality to pressure you.
How to avoid it
- Leave an encounter if it becomes threatening or coercive.
- Be careful about sharing sensitive personal information with someone you do not trust.
- Keep a way to contact someone you trust.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe and contact a trusted person. Preserve threatening messages if you can do so safely. Consider confidential help from your embassy or consulate.
- 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.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/solotravelTrip Report: 3 weeks in Ghana (very long post)A traveller reported paying 150 cedis at a checkpoint after an officer withheld their passport over a supposedly missing visa receipt.Read on Reddit
- News2025GTA assures safety as police probe alleged kidnap, extortion of Black American touristsGhana News Agency reported an official investigation after visiting Black Americans alleged kidnapping and extortion by people claiming to be police officers.Read on News
- Government adviceGhana travel adviceCanada’s travel advice warns that scammers posing as police officers stop foreigners on roads and demand money.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the targeted extortion scam in Ghana?
People suspected to be gay or queer can face targeting and demands for money. The exact threats, methods and people responsible are not specified.
How can I spot it early?
Someone demands money while threatening you. Someone uses your actual or assumed sexuality to pressure you.
How do I avoid targeted extortion in Ghana?
Leave an encounter if it becomes threatening or coercive. Be careful about sharing sensitive personal information with someone you do not trust. Keep a way to contact someone you trust.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe and contact a trusted person. Preserve threatening messages if you can do so safely. Consider confidential help from your embassy or consulate.
Where in Ghana does this happen?
Across Ghana, targeting vulnerable people and anyone suspected to be gay or queer.
How common is this scam in Ghana?
Common. 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.
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