A 24-year-old sales agent employed at the Mile 8 branch of Obrempong Cold Store in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality has been sentenced to seven years imprisonment with hard labour for embezzling company funds.
Kelvin Ofori Sakyi was convicted by the Tarkwa Circuit Court, presided over by Mrs. Hathia Ama Manu, after he admitted to using GH¢75,895.00 of his employer’s money for football betting per Graphic Online.
The prosecution, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Joyce Odame, revealed that the complainant, Priscilla Aidoo, the manager of the Mile 8 branch, resides in the same community.
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Sakyi, who was responsible for receiving frozen products daily, was found to have consistently reported shortages in sales accounts, attributing them to customers purchasing on credit.
Following suspicions, an audit was conducted to verify the claims made by Sakyi.
The audit, which included an examination of customers who allegedly owed the company or had made payments via mobile money and cash, uncovered that Sakyi could not account for GH¢75,895.00 worth of frozen products during October and November 2024.
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Further investigation revealed that Sakyi had used the misappropriated funds primarily for soccer betting.
His mobile money transaction history, obtained from MTN, showed that he had spent a total of GH¢75,173.00 on betting activities during the same period.
Sakyi admitted to these actions in his caution statement to the police.
As a result of the findings, a formal complaint was filed, leading to his arrest and subsequent conviction.
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The court sentenced him to seven years imprisonment with hard labour for his fraudulent actions.
The effects of sports betting on the youth
![A sports betting shop (image used for illustration) [Guardian]](https://hitzvibez.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1742290919_879_image)
Positive effects of sports betting on youth
Sports betting can have some positive impacts on youth when approached responsibly.
For many, it adds an extra layer of excitement to watching sports, making games more engaging and enjoyable.
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This can foster a deeper interest in sports, encouraging youth to learn about teams, players, and statistics, which can enhance their analytical thinking skills.
Additionally, for a small number of young people, betting can result in financial gains, providing a sense of accomplishment or even helping them manage minor expenses.
Lastly, sports betting can serve as a social activity, allowing youth to bond with friends over shared predictions and discussions about sports, which can strengthen social connections.
Negative effects of sports betting on youth
Despite its potential benefits, sports betting can have serious negative consequences for youth.
One major issue is financial loss, as many young people lack the financial literacy to bet responsibly.
This often leads to chasing losses, where individuals continue betting in an attempt to recover lost money, resulting in even greater financial strain.
Another significant concern is the risk of addiction, as youth are particularly vulnerable to impulsive behaviour.
Problem gambling can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress, especially when losses pile up.
Furthermore, excessive focus on betting can negatively impact academic performance or career prospects, as youth may prioritise betting over studies or work, leading to long-term setbacks.
