Veteran Ghanaian comic actor Koo Fori, widely known for his role in the popular Efiewura TV series, has pleaded not guilty to charges of defrauding a US-based Ghanaian to the tune of $50,000.
The actor, whose real name is Samuel Seth Kwabena Kyere Karikari, made his first court appearance on Monday, May 12, at the Dansoman Circuit Court following his arrest by the Accra Central Police Command on Friday, May 9.
Koo Fori has been formally charged with defrauding under false pretences and was granted bail in the sum of GH₵320,000 with three sureties, pending further court proceedings.
Koo Fori pleads not guilty to $50,000 fraud charge, granted GH₵320,000 bail
Alleged Investment Scam
According to police sources, the actor allegedly received the money from a Ghanaian living in California under the guise of facilitating a profitable investment opportunity in Ghana. The complainant, whose identity has been withheld, claimed that after transferring the funds, Koo Fori failed to fulfill his end of the agreement and subsequently became unreachable.
The victim reportedly made several attempts to recover the funds, including seeking amicable resolution, but all efforts proved futile. Frustrated and financially distressed, the individual eventually filed a formal complaint with Ghanaian authorities, leading to an official investigation and legal action.
Legal Complications and Bench Warrant
Investigators further disclosed that Koo Fori had been summoned to appear before the Dansoman District Court on April 17 to address the matter but failed to do so. His failure to appear resulted in the issuance of a bench warrant for his arrest, which was executed earlier this month.
The case has since sparked widespread public interest, given Koo Fori’s longstanding reputation in Ghana’s entertainment industry. Known for his humour and fatherly roles, particularly in the now-iconic Efiewura sitcom, the allegations have cast a shadow over his public image.
Next Steps
The Dansoman Circuit Court is expected to reconvene in the coming weeks for the continuation of the case, during which evidence will be presented and the court will determine whether the matter proceeds to trial.
While Koo Fori maintains his innocence, pleading not guilty, legal analysts suggest that the case could have serious implications for both his career and public standing if found guilty. For now, the Ghanaian public, especially fans of the actor, await further developments with a mixture of shock and cautious curiosity.
