The Ghana Police Service will be resorting to diplomatic channels after attempts to question an American woman whose viral video accused people she claimed were police officers of kidnapping and robbing her in Accra.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 9, 2025, the Ghana Police Service said its investigation into the claims by Arianna Naomi Mackey has faced significant setbacks since the video began circulating online.
Investigators from the Criminal Investigation Department said early findings show that Mackey recorded the video at a hotel in Accra but had already checked out and left the country on December 5. Police confirmed she exited Ghana through the Kotoka International Airport on the same day.
“Police subsequently contacted the alleged victim to assist the investigation,” the statement noted.
“She indicated to the Police that she was out of the country and she could not get the names of the alleged officers nor the number plate of the vehicle they were using.”
According to the CID, further efforts to advance the probe have stalled. The police said Mackey has deleted the video that sparked public attention, stopped responding to follow-up messages, and later blocked investigators on WhatsApp. Authorities also said she declined to share contact details of a Ghanaian friend who was reportedly with her at the time, explaining that the friend did not want to be involved.
“The Ghana Police Service treats such allegations very seriously and remains committed to uncovering the facts in this case,” the release said.
The statement was signed by Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, the Public Relations Officer of the CID.
Public complaints about alleged misconduct by individuals wearing police uniforms, especially at checkpoints, have resurfaced repeatedly in Ghana over the years, heightening attention on the case.
The police say their work continues as they seek cooperation from the alleged victim through official diplomatic processes.
Read the statement below.
