In a surprising turn of events, popular Ghanaian dancehall musician Shatta Wale has been taken into custody amid a tax investigation tied to his recent acquisition of a luxury Lamborghini. His management team confirmed the detention, stating that Wale presented himself voluntarily to Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (Eoco) on Wednesday.
The vibrant artist's yellow Lamborghini was confiscated earlier this month under allegations from the United States suggesting that the vehicle was tied to criminal activities. These allegations involve Nana Kwabena Amuah, a fellow Ghanaian currently serving a seven-year prison sentence in the US for his participation in fraudulent activities. While Shatta Wale's management did not address the US claims directly, they maintained that the investigation primarily concerns Wale's tax obligations.
Real name Charles Nii Armah, Shatta Wale is a renowned figure in the Ghanaian music scene, known for his contributions to dancehall music, including his collaboration with Beyoncé on the popular track "Already" from 2019. Despite the controversies, Wale asserted his stance, describing himself as a "third-party owner" of the Lamborghini, which is reportedly valued at $150,000 (£110,000). He emphasized his lack of knowledge regarding the shipment of the vehicle to Ghana.
The Eoco intends to return the Lamborghini to the US to assist with compensating victims of Amuah's fraudulent schemes, which reportedly defrauded over 70 organizations across the nation. As part of a larger crackdown on international fraud, Ghana has been cooperating with US authorities; recent operations have led to the extradition of three Ghanaian nationals implicated in a significant $100 million fraud scheme, including romance scams and phishing attacks.
In light of Wale's detention, his management has urged fans to remain calm and avoid speculation, assuring the public that Wale's legal representation is actively collaborating with authorities to resolve the situation. The investigation not only affects Wale’s status but also encapsulates Ghana’s ongoing efforts to combat global criminal enterprises linked to fraud.
The vibrant artist's yellow Lamborghini was confiscated earlier this month under allegations from the United States suggesting that the vehicle was tied to criminal activities. These allegations involve Nana Kwabena Amuah, a fellow Ghanaian currently serving a seven-year prison sentence in the US for his participation in fraudulent activities. While Shatta Wale's management did not address the US claims directly, they maintained that the investigation primarily concerns Wale's tax obligations.
Real name Charles Nii Armah, Shatta Wale is a renowned figure in the Ghanaian music scene, known for his contributions to dancehall music, including his collaboration with Beyoncé on the popular track "Already" from 2019. Despite the controversies, Wale asserted his stance, describing himself as a "third-party owner" of the Lamborghini, which is reportedly valued at $150,000 (£110,000). He emphasized his lack of knowledge regarding the shipment of the vehicle to Ghana.
The Eoco intends to return the Lamborghini to the US to assist with compensating victims of Amuah's fraudulent schemes, which reportedly defrauded over 70 organizations across the nation. As part of a larger crackdown on international fraud, Ghana has been cooperating with US authorities; recent operations have led to the extradition of three Ghanaian nationals implicated in a significant $100 million fraud scheme, including romance scams and phishing attacks.
In light of Wale's detention, his management has urged fans to remain calm and avoid speculation, assuring the public that Wale's legal representation is actively collaborating with authorities to resolve the situation. The investigation not only affects Wale’s status but also encapsulates Ghana’s ongoing efforts to combat global criminal enterprises linked to fraud.
