The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into a viral video in which an American woman claims she was kidnapped and robbed by men she alleged were police officers on duty in Accra.
In the video, the woman, identified as Arianna Naomi Mackey, alleged that five masked men she believed to be officers of the Ghana Police Service abducted her during a snap check and took an undisclosed amount of money from her.
According to a statement issued on Monday, December 9, preliminary findings show that the footage was recorded at a hotel in Accra, where Ms. Mackey and two companions were lodging.
Investigators confirmed that the group checked out of the hotel on December 5. Additional checks at Kotoka International Airport indicated that Ms. Mackey departed Ghana the same day.
Police said they later contacted Ms. Mackey to assist with the investigation, but she reported that she was outside the country and could not identify the alleged officers or provide the number plate of their vehicle.
Investigators also requested contact details of a friend whom Ms.
Mackey claimed had accompanied her at the time of the incident. She reportedly stated that the friend did not wish to be involved in the case.
The CID further noted that Ms. Mackey has deleted the viral video from her social media page.
Attempts to reach her through WhatsApp calls and messages were unsuccessful, according to the statement, as she stopped responding and eventually blocked the investigative team.
Police say efforts are underway to obtain her cooperation through diplomatic channels.
“The Ghana Police Service treats such allegations very seriously and remains committed to uncovering the facts in this case,” the statement said.
The release was signed by Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo of the Criminal Investigation Department.
