-In Visa Fraud Case
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia – Rev. Emmanuel Nimely, the former religious advisor to ex-President George Weah, has been released on bail after months in detention over allegations of orchestrating a large-scale visa scam. Nimely, who also led Weah’s *Forkay Klon Church*, was arrested in 2024 for defrauding 90 individuals by promising them visas to attend a fictitious conference in Australia.
Investigators revealed that Nimely collected significant sums from victims under the pretense of securing them travel documents and conference invitations to Australia. However, the promised event never existed, leaving dozens of Liberians stranded after paying for what they believed was a legitimate opportunity.
Nimely reportedly admitted to receiving funds from the victims but claimed the scheme was not initially intended as fraud. His organization, which operated under the guise of a religious group, was later exposed as a front for the scam.
During his initial court appearance, Nimely’s legal team failed to secure a valid bond, prolonging his detention. However, after months of legal proceedings, his lawyers successfully submitted the necessary documentation, leading to his release pending trial.
Legal experts suggest the case highlights weaknesses in Liberia’s financial fraud enforcement, where high-profile suspects sometimes secure bail despite serious allegations. Critics argue that such releases undermine public trust in the justice system, particularly in cases involving influential figures.
Many of the defrauded individuals, who lost substantial savings in the scam, have expressed frustration over Nimely’s release. Some are now calling for stricter accountability measures to prevent similar schemes.
“We trusted him because of his connections and position,” said one victim, who requested anonymity. “Now we are left with nothing, while he walks free.”
With Nimely out on bail, the case now moves toward trial, where prosecutors will present evidence to support the fraud charges. If convicted, he could face significant prison time under Liberia’s anti-fraud laws.
The case has also raised questions about the role of religious and political figures in financial scams, prompting calls for tighter scrutiny of organizations linked to high-ranking officials.
