The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has provided an update on its investigation into a viral video in which an American woman alleged she was kidnapped and extorted by Ghanaian police officers.
The woman, identified as Arianna Naomi Mackey, claimed in the footage that three masked officers seized her, concealed their vehicle’s registration number, and wore no name tags.
She further alleged that they confiscated her mobile phones and camera, preventing her from recording events or contacting anyone, and coerced her into handing over a total of 400 US dollars.
In the video, Mackey recounted that the officers escorted her to an ATM, where she withdrew money under duress. “So at the ATM, I took out $150 and gave it to them, but they continued to extort money from my companion,” she said.
However, the CID stated that after contacting Mackey to assist with their inquiry, she informed the police that she was no longer in Ghana. Official records confirmed she departed the country on 5 December 2025.
A statement from the Police Service on 9 December 2025 noted:
“The Police subsequently contacted the alleged victim to assist the investigation. She indicated to Police that she was out of the country and could not provide the names of the alleged officers or the number plate of the vehicle they were using.”
Efforts to reach Mackey’s companion in Ghana were also unsuccessful, as the individual declined to participate. The CID added that Mackey has since deleted the video from her social media page and has not responded to follow-up messages, reportedly blocking the investigators on WhatsApp.
“Last night I was robbed and kidnapped by the police in Ghana.” - An American lady visiting for Detty December claimed, alleging that individuals in uniform took about $400 from her and one other guy . pic.twitter.com/pcquthyen2
— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt)
">https://twitter.com/eddie_wrt/status/1997909452041941119?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2025
— (@eddie_wrt) December 8, 2025
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Despite these setbacks, the Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to the investigation. “Efforts are ongoing to secure her cooperation through appropriate diplomatic channels.
The Ghana Police Service treats such allegations very seriously and remains committed to uncovering the facts in this case,” the statement concluded.
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