Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, born Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr., was detained by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) over tax issues related to his 2019 Lamborghini Urus, sparking widespread attention.
The detention, linked to a US fraud investigation, prompted hundreds of Shatta Movement (SM) fans to gather outside EOCO’s Accra headquarters, demanding his release.
The peaceful protest, marked by chants, placards, and motorbike displays, showcased the loyalty of Wale’s fanbase.
Entertainment critic and politician Kwame A Plus praised the Shatta Movement for their disciplined conduct during the demonstration.
In a social media post, A Plus shared a video of the protest, commending the fans for defying negative stereotypes often associated with them.
“Despite being labelled as infamous, illiterate, and street-based, SM fans proved they value law and order.
Their peaceful protest and negotiation skills show we can advocate for our beliefs while upholding discipline,” he wrote.
Shatta Wale was released on August 21 after meeting revised bail conditions, reduced from GH₵10 million to GH₵5 million with two sureties.
Following his release, he expressed gratitude to his fans and EOCO officials via a TikTok live session, noting their professionalism.
The protest not only highlighted the Shatta Movement’s unity but also drew support from industry figures like Sista Afia and Bullet, who called the detention a “witch-hunt.”
The event underscores the power of organized, peaceful advocacy in Ghana’s entertainment scene, with Kwame A Plus lauding the Shatta Movement’s exemplary approach amid a high-profile controversy.