A 29-year old wood seller, who duped a trader of his GH¢4,550.00 under the pretext of securing him an Italian travel visa, has been sentenced to a fine of GH¢500.00 by a Kumasi Circuit Court.
Olivia Opoku Agyeman was also ordered to refund the money to the complainant or serve six months in jail in hard labour, if she defaults.
She pleaded not guilty to the offence.
Police Detective Inspector Martin Assenso told the court presided over by Mr Justice William Boampong that the complainant, Mr Opoku Agyemang, resides at Breman in Kumasi, and deals in wood products.
About two years ago he discussed with the convict his intention to travel to Italy and Olivia offered to help him to acquire a visa at a fee of GH¢6,000.00.
She collected from him a total of GH¢4,550 in addition to his Ghanaian passport, but failed to honour her side of the bargain.
Police Detective Inspector Assenso said fed up with the lies and deception of Olivia, Mr Agyemang made a formal report to the police and she was arrested.
The prosecution said she admitted having spent the money during police interrogation and returned GH¢500.00 of the amount.