Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed the seizure of a luxury Lamborghini Urus SUV from celebrated dancehall artiste Shatta Wale. The vehicle, according to officials, has been linked to the fraudulent dealings of convicted Ghanaian-American fraudster Nana Kwabena Amuah, popularly known as Philip Osei Tutu.
The vehicle, believed to be purchased with proceeds from Amuah’s multi-million-dollar romance scams and business email compromise operations in the United States, was in Shatta Wale’s possession when EOCO visited his residence.
In an official statement, EOCO disclosed that the operation was based on a formal request from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Justice.
“The confiscation followed a formal request from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Department of Justice, who had identified the vehicle as an asset purchased with fraudulently acquired funds,” EOCO stated.
While the musician is said to have initially resisted efforts to retrieve the car, he later complied after understanding the legal ramifications.
“Shatta Wale, who was present when EOCO officials visited his residence, initially resisted efforts to take the vehicle. However, he later complied and voluntarily handed over the keys after learning the true nature of the matter,” the statement added.
The Lamborghini was among several assets listed in a U.S. court judgment that sentenced Amuah to 64 months in prison and ordered him to pay more than $4 million in restitution.
“The vehicle has been duly secured and will be handed over to the United States authorities in accordance with the judgment issued by the US District Court,” EOCO noted.
The anti-crime agency reiterated its commitment to working with international law enforcement agencies to clamp down on money laundering and asset concealment. It also encouraged the Ghanaian public to cooperate with such efforts.
“EOCO remains committed to assisting international law enforcement efforts and urges the public to cooperate in similar cases as the country strengthens its asset recovery and anti-money laundering framework.”
