Sekondi June 3, GNA- A Sekondi Magistrate's Court on Thursday fined Charles Wuashie, a 42-year-old social worker, two million cedis for defrauding a druggist of nine point three million cedis. The accused, who pleaded not guilty to defrauding by false pretence, would go to prison for 18 months in hard labour if he fails to pay the fine.

Police Sergeant Andam Okyere, said sometime in 2001, Wuashie went to the drug store of Kwame Asare at Kwesimintsim near Takoradi to buy drugs.

He said the accused entered into conversation with Asare and narrated some of events that had happened in the life of Asare. Sergeant Okyere said the accused won the admiration and confidence of Asare who agreed that those events were true.

He Wuashie told Asare that he could assist him obtain a passport and visa to either Italy or Australia.

Sergeant Okyere said the accused demanded nine point three million cedis from 2001 to 2003 to help him make the necessary arrangements to enable Asare to travel abroad.

He said the accused failed to honour his promise and after attempts to retrieve the money had failed, Asare reported the matter to the Police.

The court advised complainant to institute a civil action to get back the money from the accused. 3 June 04