Shatta Wale (L) and Kwadwo Ofori Dankwah (R)
Following Shatta Wale’s detention amid an ongoing investigation into a Lamborghini Urus believed to be linked to proceeds of fraud, legal expert Kwadwo Ofori Dankwah has warned that the dancehall artiste could face the same punishment as the individual alleged to have acquired the car through fraudulent means.
In an interview with Nana Romeo, the lawyer explained that Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), specifically Sections 146, 147, and 148, addresses the dishonest receipt or possession of stolen property.
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He emphasised that the law makes no distinction between the original thief and anyone who knowingly benefits from stolen goods.
“Under the Criminal Act 29, sections 146, 147, and 148 address the issues of possession of stolen property, receiving stolen goods dishonestly, and dishonestly possessing stolen items. The law states that if you are found guilty of any of these offenses, the penalties can be similar to those faced by the person who actually committed the theft.
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“For instance, if someone steals a car and another person buys it knowing it was obtained illegally, both could face similar prison sentences. In this context, Shatta Wale could potentially be brought before the criminal court for charges related to dishonestly receiving and possessing stolen property, along with additional issues related to tax evasion,” legal expert explained.
When asked if an influential person in Ghana could step in to bury the case, the lawyer was doubtful.
He mentioned that with the FBI and the US Department of Justice involved, any such attempt could create bigger problems.
“I do not think that any influential individual would try to intervene to dismiss these charges easily. If someone attempts to do so, there is a risk of a travel ban being imposed, which would restrict them to staying only in Ghana,” he said.
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