Côte d’Ivoire authorities probe influencers in major fraud case

The Economic and Financial Criminal Pole (PPEF) in Côte d’Ivoire has launched legal proceedings against approximately ten social media influencers and public figures suspected of involvement in a large-scale fraud and money laundering network.

The investigation centers on Rita Djédjé, also known as ‘Maman Na Caï Caï’, and her company, Ivoire Challenge Corporation SARL. Authorities allege the group collected over 320 million FCFA from approximately sixty complainants by selling land parcels they did not actually own. The prosecution has requested a warrant for Djédjé to address what it described as an ‘exceptional and persistent disturbance to public order.’

Several high-profile personalities have been implicated for their roles in the scheme. Some individuals allegedly used their fame to vouch for the legitimacy of the real estate projects, while others reportedly used WhatsApp groups to collect funds on behalf of Djédjé. Named individuals include Apoutchou National, former footballer Geoffroy Serey Dié, and Pantcho Le Gatair.

Legal charges include criminal conspiracy, fraud through public solicitation of savings, breach of trust, forgery, and money laundering. This crackdown follows Côte d’Ivoire’s 2024 inclusion on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, prompting increased national scrutiny of suspicious financial activities.