Burkina Faso authorities have arrested Sidaty Yoda, President of the Tribunal de Grande Instance in Banfora, over his alleged role in a real estate fraud scheme. The Attorney General of Bobo Dioulasso confirmed that a judicial investigation is ongoing.

The case dates back to July 2024, when complaints surfaced about fraudulent land sales. Yoda and his accomplices allegedly sold unbuilt plots in Banfora, falsely claiming they were unassigned. Investigations revealed that the fraudulent transactions amounted to 108 million CFA francs.

Authorities say Yoda legitimized the sales by issuing official documents and judicial orders to transfer ownership. Between 2022 and 2024, at least 18 plots were illegally sold, impacting multiple victims.

Now in custody, Yoda faces charges of fraudulent real estate transactions and money laundering. The case has sparked concerns over corruption within the judiciary, with calls for stricter oversight in land administration.