PTAAM-Africa calls for government probe into alleged World Cup visa fraud

The Positive Transparency and Accountability Movement-Africa (PTAAM-Africa) has called on the government to investigate alleged visa fraud involving individuals who reportedly exploited travel arrangements linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup to defraud unsuspecting Ghanaians.

The movement wants the Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ghana Immigration Service and National Security to collaborate in investigating the allegations and ensuring accountability.

It has also called for the identities of alleged victims to be protected and warned against publicly accusing individuals without credible evidence.

In a press release dated Monday, October 12, and signed by its President, Ebenezer K. Havor, PTAAM-Africa described the allegations as serious, citing their potential implications for Ghana’s international reputation and immigration system.

“Such acts, if proven, do not only dent Ghana's international image but also undermine the integrity of our passport and immigration system and expose victims to human trafficking risks,” the statement said.

The movement urged the relevant authorities to conduct a transparent investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full rigours of the law.

It also cautioned the media and the public against treating allegations as established facts, stressing the need to respect the rights of accused persons.

“All allegations must be backed by credible evidence, and all accused persons must be given a fair hearing,” the statement added.

Background to the alleged World Cup visa scandal

The call comes amid controversy over visa arrangements involving the National Sports Authority (NSA), the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and private entity TRIBE Culture Fest.

The controversy intensified after the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority in Parliament raised questions about lists of people submitted to foreign embassies for travel connected to the 2026 World Cup.

The Ranking Member on Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, alleged that only 15 of 102 people submitted to the Canadian Embassy as NSA personnel or affiliates could be verified against the authority’s records.

The controversy has led to the suspension of NSA Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah pending further investigations.

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has denied wrongdoing and said the investigation should establish the facts and ensure accountability for anyone found culpable.