A Ghanaian man currently residing in Myanmar has opened up about his involvement in online fraud, scamming individuals, particularly white people.
He was referenced in an interview with DJ Nyaami, where another individual, Kobby, claimed to have been kidnapped and stranded in Thailand. According to witnesses, Kobby and his associates have defrauded numerous victims.
READ HERE:Kobby and Three Other Ghanaians Are Currently Kidnapped in Thailand with No Means of Escape
The scammer, sharing his journey, revealed that he initially engaged in fraudulent activities in Ghana, which led to a police case. To escape, he fled to Dubai, where he worked with telecommunications companies while continuing his scams. His fraudulent operations spanned both local and international levels.
While attempting to travel to Belarus, he was denied boarding and faced deportation to Ghana. Unwilling to return, he remained in Dubai, where he encountered Pakistanis involved in online fraud. They introduced him to a scheme that initially seemed like a graphic design job. However, upon joining, he was given scripts to follow while engaging with victims online.
His work involved handling multiple phones, searching for potential victims, and using various strategies, including romance scams and investment fraud. Many scammers operate under fake profiles targeting individuals in the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Ghana. The scam involves luring victims into fraudulent investments, online dating schemes, and other deceptive tactics.
“They said I was good at it, so they moved me to another role as a receptionist, promoting fake products online,” he explained. “We would boost advertisements to attract more victims, making them believe they were investing in legitimate businesses.”
According to him, many scammers relocate to Thailand and Myanmar under false promises of jobs. Their sponsors handle their visas and travel expenses, but once they arrive, they realize they are trapped, unable to leave.
“In Dubai, at least you could go out, but in Thailand, you’re treated like a prisoner,” he said. “If you refuse to work, they make you pay back all the money they spent on you. The US has warned against scams originating from Myanmar and Thailand, leading Thai authorities to stage fake rescue operations. However, the truth is that the scam operations continue behind the scenes.”
He described the conditions as harsh, with soldiers overseeing operations and people engaging in criminal activities, including drug use. Those who get caught trying to steal from their own scam networks are often beaten severely.
One common tactic is creating fake job listings on platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn. Unsuspecting job seekers apply, and scammers reach out pretending to offer employment. Many victims, eager for an opportunity, end up paying large sums, sometimes even selling their homes.
“We act as if we’re offering jobs, especially targeting Ghanaians living in America. Once they show interest, we convince them to send money,” he admitted.
Another scam involves promising people money in exchange for simple tasks, like liking a video. Many fall for these tricks, particularly when scammers claim they will send GHC 20 just for engagement.
He also shared a chilling experience where he scammed a white woman, taking all her money. She later threatened to commit suicide, which made him feel guilty. However, he justified his actions by citing the history of slavery.
“When I visited Elmina Castle, it made the scamming feel justified,” he said.
According to him, scammers can earn up to $10,000 a month if their victims comply. However, many end up wasting their money on luxury lifestyles and reckless spending.
“I once had $50,000 in Dubai, but I squandered it all,” he admitted. “Now, I just want to leave Myanmar because the war has started, and the soldiers control everything.”
Despite his criminal activities, he acknowledges that greed is the primary reason people fall victim to scams.
“If you weren’t greedy, you wouldn’t fall for it,” he stated.
He plans to relocate to Australia, Canada, or the US but refuses to return to Ghana for now.
“Some scammers in Ghana have bought houses in Tema, while others remain in Cambodia. The police try to outsmart the Chinese scammers, but in the end, they either become victims or join in.”
He warned Ghanaians against being too greedy, emphasizing that any scheme promising double money is a scam.
“If someone asks for your credit card details, don’t give it to them. Many people fall victim because they’re too desperate for quick cash. Be content with what you have,” he advised.