Prisons Service Warns of GHS Millions Lost to Social Media Scammers

The Ghana Prisons Service issued a public warning on May 4, 2026. They stated scams on social media platforms are increasing. Fraudsters are pretending to be Prisons Service officials. These scammers are deceiving people for money.

Some individuals are falsely claiming to be high-ranking officers. They even impersonate the Director-General, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie. The goal is to trick unsuspecting citizens and steal their money. The Prisons administration stressed this point. No official is allowed to ask for money or personal details through unofficial channels. This includes social media sites.

This situation highlights a broader issue of online fraud in Ghana. Such scams can cause significant financial hardship for individuals. It damages trust in public institutions. The Prisons Service stated that all recruitment and official business follows strict, public procedures. They also stated that the Service will never ask for payment at any recruitment stage. This is part of their effort to maintain public safety and trust.

The statement emphasized the Service's commitment to fighting these fraudulent practices. “The Service does not demand payment at any stage of recruitment or for any official service,” it read. This aims to assure the public of their transparent processes. The Prisons Service is working with the Ghana Police Service. They want to catch the people behind these scams. DDP Janet Asabea, Head of Public Affairs, signed the statement.

The public needs to be alert. They should avoid talking to suspicious people online. It is crucial not to send money or personal information. This is especially true for unverified individuals. Citizens should report any suspected scam activity. They can go to any police station. They can also use official Prisons Service reporting channels. The Service will not be responsible for any money lost to these impostors.

The rise in these scams is concerning. It suggests a growing trend of criminals exploiting digital platforms for personal gain. This type of fraud can have far-reaching consequences. It impacts individual savings and the perception of government institutions. The Prisons Service's clear disclaimer and call for vigilance serve as a critical public service announcement. The collaboration with law enforcement indicates a serious effort to curb this criminal activity.