Between May 2020 and December 2020, the Winnipeg Police Service Financial Crimes Unit investigated an interprovincial fraud ring, which led to the arrest of 6 adults who targeted victims spanning from Ontario to British Columbia.
The Financial Crimes Unit began this investigation in May 2020, when a Calgary resident had their credit card comprised and subsequently used for purchases traced back to Winnipeg.
A series of similar incidents were reported to Winnipeg Police and believed to be linked to 6 individuals living together in Winnipeg. These individuals obtained stolen identity documents and credit card information from unknowing victims to facilitate fraudulent online purchases, then resold them for financial gain.
On July 22, 2020, the Financial Crimes Unit executed a search warrant at a residence in Fort Richmond. This search resulted in the seizure of numerous identity documents belonging to multiple victims and a large quantity of high-end merchandise, including designer clothing and electronics. Over $10,000 in Canadian Currency was found concealed within the air vents of this residence.
At this time, six adults were arrested and charged for numerous fraud-related offences:
⢠Kwabena Owusu BANAHENE, a 28-year-old male, was charged with ten fraud-related offences and detained in custody.
⢠Johnson ADZOTOR, a 25 -year-old male, was charged with eight fraud-related offences and detained in custody.
⢠Nanayaw Asare KORANTENG, a 25 -year-old male, was charged with 13 fraud-related offences and released on an Undertaking.
⢠Benjamin Kwadwo BEDIAKO, a 34 -year-old male, was charged with 17 fraud-related offences and released on an Undertaking.
⢠Daniel Nutifafa AMENYEAWU, a 26 -year-old male, was charged with ten fraud-related offences and detained in custody.
⢠Tjianna Latasha SMITH, a 22 -year-old female, was charged with three fraud-related offences and released on an Undertaking
The Financial Crimes Unit continued their investigation, and in December 2020, further fraud-related charges were laid and remain pending.
This investigation can serve as a reminder to the public to guard all your identity documents and credit card information. Keep track of purchases and statements and if you are a victim of fraud, report it to your credit card company and the Police.
For more information on how to protect yourself against fraud, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre.ca
Constable Jay Murray, Public Information Officer
Constable Dani McKinnon, Public Information Officer
Constable Claude Chancy, Public Information Officer
Kelly Dehn, Manager of Public Affairs
Office: 204-986-3061
E-mail: WPS-PIO@winnipeg.ca