The pawaTech Group, a sports betting, lottery and player management software provider operating in emerging markets, has disclosed that it has been the victim of an alleged fraud involving approximately US$3.6 million (2,019,192,422 CFA francs).
According to the company, the incident appears to have been organized since early 2024.
pawaTech has filed a complaint with the Economic and Financial Prosecutor's Office (PPEF) in Côte d'Ivoire.
Background
As part of its expansion in Africa, pawaTech's sales manager, Mr. Ntoudi MOUYELO, recommended Daci Speed, an Ivorian-registered company managed by Ms. Ange-Eléonore BOUGOUSSOU Djekould, as a local partner. The pawaTech Group operates by partnering with licensed local operators, providing technology, operational support and rights to use its betPawa brand, rather than holding licenses directly.
The funds in question were transferred to Daci Speed in several installments, reportedly to cover costs associated with obtaining a sports betting and online casino license and operating the betPawa brand in Côte d'Ivoire.
Alleged Discrepancies
pawaTech states that Daci Speed provided documentation including a purported letter from the National Lottery of Côte d'Ivoire (LONACI) indicating the license cost would be approximately 1.9 billion CFA francs.
However, when contacted, LONACI reportedly stated it was not the source of the submitted documents and had received no payment from Daci Speed related to any license application.
LONACI has indicated it reserves the right to pursue legal action for alleged forgery and use of forged documents.
Additional documents reportedly showed the actual license cost from LONACI was 500 million CFA francs, which LONACI states it never received.
Legal Proceedings
In September 2025, pawaTech filed a complaint with the PPEF against Daci Speed, Ms. Ange-Eléonore BOUGOUSSOU Djekould, and Mr. Edie YEPIE Jacky Fernandel Pascal for alleged breach of trust, fraud, forgery and use of forged documents, and criminal conspiracy.
Following proceedings in October 2025, the investigation was expanded to include Mr. Yann Lossane Diomande and Mr. Ntoudi MOUYELO, pawaTech's former employee responsible for
African business development. A separate complaint has been filed against the latter in another jurisdiction.
Company Statement
pawaTech has expressed its commitment to cooperating with Ivorian authorities and awaits the judicial outcome of the investigation. The company has stated its continued commitment to developing the online gaming and sports betting sector in Africa in accordance with ethical and compliance principles.