By An Adentan Circuit Court has sentenced Edward Unicorn, a 32-year-old accountant for the Ghana Police Church, to two years in prison for embezzling GHC40,433.50 (approximately $3,500 USD) and losing it to an online betting game called Aviator.
Unicorn, who pleaded guilty with an explanation, told the court, “I spent the money by playing Aviator. I staked it and never won. I was desperate to win but lost.” He admitted to being addicted to the game and gradually transferring church funds to fuel his gambling habit.
The court, presided over by Judge Sedinam Awo Kwadam, convicted Unicorn on his own plea. In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered Unicorn to pay GHC5,000 and directed that GHC2,775 retrieved from the accused be returned to the Ghana Police Church.
Chief Inspector Anim Darko, leading the prosecution, detailed Unicorn’s responsibilities as the church accountant since June 2024. These included collecting cash from ushers, managing mobile money accounts, preparing payroll, and submitting monthly reports to the Financial Committee.
The embezzlement came to light after a series of suspicious transactions. On August 17, 2024, Unicorn left work with the church’s mobile money phone and proceeded to spend church funds at local pubs. Investigations revealed that between August 17 and 18, he transferred significant amounts to his personal account and that of a friend, using the funds to play Aviator.
In an attempt to evade detection, Unicorn feigned a mental condition and sought treatment at the Ghana Police Hospital and Accra Psychiatric Hospital. However, on August 19, 2024, church officials discovered the theft and reported it to the East Legon Police Station.
Further investigation uncovered additional discrepancies in church accounts dating back to July 2024, including undocumented offerings and incomplete deposits.
This case highlights the growing concern over online gambling addiction in Ghana and its potential impact on individuals in positions of financial trust. It also underscores the need for stricter financial controls and oversight in religious institutions.
The Ghana Police Church has not yet commented on potential changes to its financial management practices in light of this incident. Meanwhile, local addiction specialists are calling for increased awareness and support services for individuals struggling with online gambling addictions.
As Unicorn begins his prison sentence, the case serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of gambling addiction and the severe consequences of financial misconduct in trusted positions.
