By James Kai Kai
In a major breakthrough against transnational fraud, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), in collaboration with INTERPOL and Ghanaian law enforcement, have arrested and extradited a notorious travel scammer, Musa “Seaport” Kamara, from Accra, Ghana to Freetown.
The operation, led by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Genevieve Tity Cowan, Head of INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau in Freetown, represents a significant milestone in the fight against organized crime networks that exploit individuals seeking overseas opportunities.
Kamara, who operated under several aliases, is accused of defrauding at least three victims of over $54,000 through fake travel arrangements that never materialized. The individual amounts lost by the victims were $32,000, $18,000, and $4,000, respectively.
Although Kamara claimed to be residing in France, authorities discovered he was actually hiding in Dodowa, a suburb of Accra. In a dramatic twist, he was unknowingly living with the daughters of one of his victims. The victim identified Kamara in a photograph and alerted his daughters, who confirmed that the man in question was their neighbor.
This discovery led to an official report to INTERPOL in Freetown and a formal complaint at the Dodowa Police Station. Acting on coordinated intelligence, INTERPOL facilitated Kamara’s swift arrest and extradition to Sierra Leone.
He is currently being held at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters on Pademba Road in Freetown, where he is assisting with ongoing investigations. CSP Cowan confirmed that Kamara faces multiple charges of obtaining money by false pretenses and may be linked to additional fraudulent schemes.
The Sierra Leone Police commended the successful international collaboration and reiterated their commitment to bringing fraudsters to justice and securing justice for victims.
“This case underscores the importance of international law enforcement cooperation in tackling cross-border crimes. We will continue to pursue justice for those affected by financial fraud,” CSP Cowan stated.
