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Tag: OSP

  • Cecilia Dapaah’s bank accounts, investments frozen again

    Cecilia Dapaah’s bank accounts, investments frozen again

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has invoked his statutory power under Section 38(1) of Act 959 and Regulation 19(1) of L.I. 2374 to retain possession of Madam Cecilia Dapaah’s funds, despite the High Court’s directive to return them.

    This means the former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister will not be receiving the money seized from her house anytime soon.

    On August 9, the former minister’s cedi and dollar accounts were frozen by the OSP pending further investigations into corruption and corruption-related activities.

    But last week, the Accra High Court issued an order instructing the OSP to unfreeze Ms. Dapaah’s bank accounts and return seized cash.

    However, the OSP, in a statement, asserted that it had indeed complied with the court’s order but clarified that ongoing investigations had led them to believe that the money might be linked to illegal activities, prompting them to maintain custody of the amount.

    The OSP has therefore frozen Cecilia Dapaah’s bank accounts.

    “Consequently, subsequent to the indicated ruling and order of the High Court and the compliance by the OSP with said ruling and order, the Special Prosecutor considers that freezing the bank accounts and investments of Ms. Dapaah is necessary to facilitate the ongoing investigation. Therefore, the Special Prosecutor has invoked his statutory power under section 38(1) of Act 959 and regulation 19(1) of L.I. 2374 by directing the freezing of the bank accounts and investments of Ms. Dapaah effective 5 September 2023.”

    “Further, subsequent to the indicated ruling and order of the High Court and the compliance by the OSP with said ruling and order, the Special Prosecutor considers that he has reasonable grounds to suspect that the cash amounts seized from and returned to Ms. Dapaah is tainted property and it is necessary to exercise the power of seizure to prevent the concealment or loss of said cash amounts. Therefore, the Special Prosecutor has again invoked his statutory power under section 32(1)(a) of Act 959 by directing the seizure from Ms. Dapaah of the cash amounts previously seized from her. Authorized officers of the OSP have seized the said cash amounts from Ms. Dapaah.”

    In July 2023, former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, garnered significant public attention when The Chronicle Newspaper reported that her domestic staff had been taken to court on allegations of stealing a substantial sum of money and personal belongings. The reported stolen items included $1 million, 300,000 euros, several million cedis, and various valuable possessions belonging to both the former minister and her husband.

    Following public outcry, Cecilia Dapaah resigned from her ministerial position and was subsequently arrested by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). She was later granted bail.

    On Monday, July 24, 2023, officials from the Office of the Special Prosecutor conducted a search at the former minister’s residence. During this operation, the OSP uncovered a significant amount of cash totaling US$590,000 and GHC2.730,000.

    Promptly recognizing the importance of this discovery as potential evidence in their ongoing investigation, officials from the Office of the Special Prosecutor took immediate action by seizing these substantial sums of cash. Additionally, the OSP exercised its authority to freeze seven bank accounts belonging to Cecilia Dapaah as part of the investigative process.

  • OSP refreezes Cecilia Dapaah’s accounts again

    OSP refreezes Cecilia Dapaah’s accounts again

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has taken a series of actions concerning the assets of Cecilia Dapaah, following a court directive to unfreeze her accounts and return her seized cash.

    This development occurred subsequent to an order from the Accra High Court, instructing the OSP to unfreeze the accounts and investments of former minister Cecilia Dapaah and return the confiscated funds.

    Initially, the OSP complied with the High Court’s ruling, unfreezing Ms. Dapaah’s bank accounts and investments as instructed.

    However, the OSP has now opted to reinstate the freeze on Ms. Dapaah’s bank accounts and investments as of September 5, 2023. This decision stems from ongoing investigations into suspected corruption and corruption-related activities involving substantial sums of money connected to Cecilia Dapaah.

    “The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has complied with the ruling and order of the court of the High Court, Accra dated 31 August 2023 by unfreezing the frozen bank accounts and investments of Cecilia Dapaah. The OSP has also returned the seized cash sums of Ms Dapaah in the presence and assent of Ms Dapaah and her lawyers,” part of the statement read.

    The statement claims that following the High Court’s decision and order, as well as the adherence to the decision, continued inquiry has turned up contradicting stories of who owns and where the money that was allegedly taken from her home.

    The OSP contends that it made a sound conclusion about the former minister.

    “Consequently, subsequent to the indicated ruling and order of the High Court and the compliance by the OSP with the said ruling and order, the Special Prosecutor considers that freezing the bank accounts and investments of Ms Dapaah is necessary to facilitate the ongoing investigation. Therefore, the Special Prosecutor has invoked his statutory power under Section 38(1) of Acts 959 and regulation 19(1) of L.I. 2374 by directing the freezing of the bank account and investments of Ms Dapaah effective 5 September 2023.

    “Further, subsequent to the indicated ruling and order of the High Court and the compliance by the OSP with the said ruling and order, the Special Prosecutor considers that he has reasonable grounds to suspect that the cash amounts seized from and returned to Ms Dapaah is tinted property and it is necessary to exercise the power to seizure to prevent the concealment or loss of said cash amounts.

    “Therefore, the Special Prosecutor has again invoked his statutory power under section 32(1)(a) of Act 959 by directing Ms. Dapaah of the cash amounts previously seized from her. Authorized officers of the OSP have seized said cash amounts from Ms Dapaah,” the statement said.

  • Cecilia Dapaah: Take less interest in the media and focus on your job – Richard Ahiagbah tells OSP

    Cecilia Dapaah: Take less interest in the media and focus on your job – Richard Ahiagbah tells OSP

    Communications Director of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has expressed criticism of the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s handling of a suspected corruption case involving former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Dapaah.

    Ahiagbah has raised concerns that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) appears to be prioritizing media attention over the essential task of thoroughly investigating the case to gather the requisite evidence for potential charges.

    During an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, September 2, the NPP’s Communications Director openly called out the Special Prosecutor. He advised the Special Prosecutor to concentrate on carrying out his responsibilities diligently and refrain from needlessly tarnishing individuals’ reputations.

    “I think the Special Prosecutor has been very untidy with this whole case and getting its lungs filled with the oxygen of public interest in the matter and it’s affecting how it should approach this matter. “

    “He should take less interest in the media and focus on his job.”

    During the same broadcast, Mahama Ayariga, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament representing Bawku Central, also criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), accusing it of negligence in its handling of the case.

    Ayariga pointed out that the OSP had not fully adhered to its statutory obligations, particularly in terms of seeking court confirmation for the seizure and freezing of the former Minister’s accounts.

    “The law says apply for confirmation of the seizure within seven days and I am saying that the Special Prosecutor did not do that. He didn’t do that.”

    “He has been negligent, and he is trying to throw dust into our eyes by issuing this long convoluted statement. The courts are there for everybody so let’s not blame the court.”

    “While the OSP respects the Court’s decision, it disagrees with the decision of the Court. First, the OSP believes that the Court’s computation of the time limitation is, with respect, erroneous.”

    “The OSP searched three (3) private residences associated with Ms. Dapaah over the course of two (2) weeks. The searches and discovery were ongoing during that period. There is little doubt that the OSP filed its application within the statutory window once the search and discovery window is considered.”

    The OSP further clarified that its decision to freeze the accounts was not based on public sentiments as it is purported.

    “The freezing order was not based on public sentiments. Rather, it was based on court processes filed in a criminal matter before the Circuit Court, Accra involving Ms. Dapaah as the complainant. Further, the freezing order was effected to aid the investigation, as required by law, not on the basis of the investigation, as indicated by the Court. Therefore, it cannot be said that the OSP did not carry out proper investigations to warrant the freezing order. The investigation has only commenced, and it is ongoing.”

    The OSP is investigating Madam Dapaah for corruption and corruption-related offences following the revelation that she was keeping more than $1 million in her house.

  • You have been negligent in tackling cash case involving Cecilia Dapaah – Mahama Ayariga to OSP

    You have been negligent in tackling cash case involving Cecilia Dapaah – Mahama Ayariga to OSP

    The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central has criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for not fully adhering to its Act when seeking court confirmation for the seizure and freezing of former Minister for Water Resources and Sanitation, Cecilia Dapaah’s accounts.

    Mahama Ayariga accused the OSP of negligence in fulfilling its responsibilities and calls for accountability. During an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile program on Saturday, September 2, Mr. Ayariga emphasized the importance of the OSP following the law, stating that the courts are accessible to everyone, not just the OSP.

    “The law says apply for confirmation of the seizure within seven days and I am saying that the Special Prosecutor did not do that. He didn’t do that.”

    “He has been negligent and he is trying to throw dust into our eyes by issuing this long convoluted statement. The courts are there for everybody so let’s not blame the court.”

    Following the Financial and Economic Division of an Accra High Court’s ruling on Thursday, August 31, ordering the Office of the Special Prosecutor to return all funds seized from former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah, the OSP issued a statement expressing respect for the directive while disagreeing with it, deeming it erroneous.

    The Court ordered compliance with the ruling within seven days and stated that it cannot confirm the freezing of her bank accounts and other assets.

    “While the OSP respects the Court’s decision, it disagrees with the decision of the Court. First, the OSP believes that the Court’s computation of the time limitation is, with respect, erroneous.”

    “The OSP searched three (3) private residences associated with Ms. Dapaah over the course of two (2) weeks. The searches and discovery were ongoing during that period. There is little doubt that the OSP filed its application within the statutory window once the search and discovery window is considered.”

    The OSP further clarified that its decision to freeze the accounts was not based on public sentiments as it is purported.

    “The freezing order was not based on public sentiments. Rather, it was based on court processes filed in a criminal matter before the Circuit Court, Accra involving Ms. Dapaah as the complainant. Further, the freezing order was effected to aid the investigation, as required by law, not on the basis of the investigation, as indicated by the Court. Therefore, it cannot be said that the OSP did not carry out proper investigations to warrant the freezing order. The investigation has only commenced, and it is ongoing.”

    The OSP is investigating Madam Dapaah for corruption and corruption-related offences following the revelation that she was keeping more than $1 million in her house.

  • OSP disagrees with the decision of the Court on Cecilia Dapaah’s case 

    OSP disagrees with the decision of the Court on Cecilia Dapaah’s case 

    In a press statement released and signed by the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, on Thursday, August 31, 2023, stated that even though the OSP regards the decision of the court, it disagrees with the court order.

    The OSP refuted the court order on the grounds that, contrary to the court’s claim that the application of the seizure and freezing orders filed by the OSP was done out of time, the said application was filed within the statutory time frame.

    “While the OSP respects the Court’s decision, it disagrees with the decision of the Court. First, the OSP believes that the Court’s computation of the time limitation is, with respect, erroneous. The OSP searched three (3) private residences associated with Ms Dapaah over the course of two (2) weeks. The searches and discovery were ongoing during that period. There is little doubt that the OSP filed its application within the statutory window once the search and discovery window is considered,” parts of the statement read.

    The OSP also added that the freezing and seizure actions were not taken based on public sentiments but in the confines of reasonable suspicion that the amounts of money in the accounts of the embattled former minister were questionable.

    “Second, the seizure by the OSP and the Special Prosecutor’s freezing order was effectuated on the very firm basis of reasonable suspicion that the amounts and bank balances were tainted property as Ms Dapaah prevaricated as to the source(s) of the amounts she reported stolen from her residence, the amounts discovered by the OSP in her residence, and the volume of transactions in her bank accounts and investments,” the statement added.

    Background

    The OSP applied for the court to confirm its freeze order of some of Cecilia Dapaah’s assets including her bank accounts and monies found at her properties.

    GhanaWeb, on August 9, 2023, reported that the embattled former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah’s assets and bank accounts containing millions of dollars and cedis had been frozen by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

    Cecilia Dapaah has been in a legal tussle with the OSP after the institution froze her assets, including her bank accounts.

    She is currently under investigation by the OSP for corruption and corruption-related offences after two of her house helps have been charged for stealing more than $1 million, €300,000 in cash and other valuable items from her residence at Abelemkpe.

    However, the Office of the Special Prosecutor was today directed by an Accra High Court to return cash amounts seized from the residence of the former Minister of Sanitation, Cecilia Dapaah within seven days.

  • Cecilia Dapaah: No NPP wrongdoer will ever be punished under Akufo-Addo’s govt – Kwakye Ofosu

    Cecilia Dapaah: No NPP wrongdoer will ever be punished under Akufo-Addo’s govt – Kwakye Ofosu

    Ghana’s political arena has been set ablaze by a statement from Kwakye Ofosu, a prominent figure in the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), echoing allegations of political favoritism within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). 

    He has asserted that the President has and continues to exert influence, fostering impunity in office to such an extent that corrupt officials are being let off the hook.

    “I am surprised people are surprised about the turn of events in the Cecilia Dapaah matter. As long as Akufo-Addo and his NPP remain in office, no NPP wrongdoer will ever be held to account. If you want them held to account, boot them out in 2024,” he noted.

    His remarks come after a court order to the Office of the Special Prosecutor to return seized cash found in the home of the former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah.

    An Accra High Court has mandated the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to return Cecilia Dapaah seized money to her within a period of seven days.

    The former Sanitation Minister found herself entangled in a legal dispute when her assets were seized by the OSP. However, the court has overturned this action, directing the OSP to return the confiscated funds to her.

    The OSP is investigating Madam Dapaah for corruption and corruption-related offences following the revelation that she was keeping more than $1 million in her house.

    In the wake of the startling revelation of stolen funds by her domestic staff, the Office of the Special Prosecutor embarked on a comprehensive search of the minister’s residences, prompted by the staggering amounts that were reported stolen.

    Startling details later emerged from the Office of the Special Prosecutor, that a substantial sum of US$590,000 in cash was unearthed during the search conducted at the Abelemkpe residence of the former Minister.

    Concurrently, an astounding amount of GHC2.730,000 in cash was also discovered at the same address.

    The Special Prosecutor took immediate action, seizing these substantial cash sums as crucial evidence to support the ongoing investigation.

    The OSP subsequently froze the accounts of the former minister’s cedi and dollar accounts pending further investigations.

    Background

    It emerged on Friday, July 21 that two househelps of the Minister were facing charges before an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly stealing an amount of $1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghanaian cedis at the former minister’s residence at Abelenkpe, Accra, in October 2022.

    The two, 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei allegedly stole the monies and personal effects of the couple, between the months of July and October 2022.

  • Cecilia Dapaah: Accused persons expected in court on Tuesday

    Cecilia Dapaah: Accused persons expected in court on Tuesday

    The suspects involved in the theft case at the former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah‘s residence are scheduled to appear in court for the second time on Tuesday, August 22.

    This marks their second court appearance since the charge sheet was modified by police prosecutors based on the advice of the Attorney General.

    Eight individuals have been charged so far, accused of theft and conspiracy to steal in connection with the alleged theft of over $1 million and 300,000 Euros from the home of the former Sanitation Minister.

    On August 8, seven of the eight suspects were brought to court, while one is reportedly evading authorities.

    Among the seven arraigned individuals, two who are lactating mothers were granted bail, while the remaining five were remanded in custody.

    The case involves two house helps of the former minister and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, who are accused of stealing significant sums of money and valuable items from their residence and allegedly sharing the stolen assets with others.

    Cecilia Dapaah resigned from her position as the Minister of Sanitation on July 22, following public outcry.

    On July 24, 2023, officials from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) arrested the former minister and conducted a search of her home.

    During the search, the OSP reported finding a substantial amount of US$590,000 and GHC2.730,000 in cash. Her seven bank accounts were subsequently frozen by the OSP.

    Background:

    The case came to light on July 21 when it was revealed that two house helps of the Minister were facing charges before an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly stealing $1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghanaian cedis from the former minister’s residence in October 2022.

    The two suspects, Patience Botwe (18 years old) and Sarah Agyei (30 years old), are accused of stealing money and personal items from the couple between July and October 2022.

    They have been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and multiple counts of theft involving large sums of money and currency.

    Cecilia Dapaah’s legal team has contested the figures presented in the court document, and there has been significant public outrage in response to the revelations.

  • OSP issued 14-day ultimatum to file affidavit in Charles Bissue’s case, charged GHS1,000

    OSP issued 14-day ultimatum to file affidavit in Charles Bissue’s case, charged GHS1,000

    The Human Rights Division of the High Court in Accra has given the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) a 14-day ultimatum to produce its affidavit in response to an application filed by Charles Bissue concerning the enforcement of his fundamental human rights.

    Charles Bissue, along with his legal representatives, has taken the OSP to court to address issues related to the protection of his fundamental human rights.

    The court previously served the originating motion for the enforcement of fundamental human rights to the OSP on June 15, 2023, and according to Order 64, rule 4, the OSP was required to file an affidavit in response within 21 days. However, it has been more than 36 days since the OSP received the motion, and no action has been taken.

    In the latest development, upon a plea from counsel for Charles Bissue, Nana Baffour-Awuah Agyei, the Judge, Barbara Tetteh Charway, has ordered the OSP to file its affidavit in response to the application within 14 days.

    Furthermore, due to the OSP’s failure to submit the required affidavit, the court has imposed a GH¢1,000 cost against the OSP.

    The case has been adjourned to 4th September 2023.

  • OSP responds to alleged reports on Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    OSP responds to alleged reports on Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has issued a statement in response to ‘purported reports, pictures, and videos’ circulating on social media concerning the ongoing investigation into the case of Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources.

    According to the OSP, it has not released, published, or authorized the disclosure of any reports, videos, or pictures pertaining to the steps and actions taken in the investigation or the outcome of those actions.

    The OSP has urged the public to disregard any such information being circulated on various platforms. The Office emphasizes that all official updates on the case will be communicated directly to the public through official channels.

    The investigation into the alleged corruption and corruption-related offences involving the former Minister commenced on Thursday, July 20, 2023. 

    Since then, the OSP has been diligently conducting its inquiry, making significant progress in the case.

    The public is assured that the OSP is committed to conducting a thorough and fair investigation to uncover the truth behind the reported incident. 

    Once the investigation is concluded, the OSP will promptly inform the public of its findings and any further actions to be taken in line with the law.

    As the nation awaits the outcome of the investigation, the Office encourages the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to rely on official sources for updates on the matter.

    Cecilia Dapaah, who served as the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, is at the centre of the investigation regarding the alleged theft of cash sums from her residence. The case has generated significant interest and public concern, and the OSP is committed to addressing it with the utmost professionalism and impartiality.

    Source: The Independent Ghana| P.M.A Roberts

  • ‘Funfair’ arrest and search unnecessary – Paul Adom-Otchere chides Special Prosecutor

    Metro TV journalist Paul Adom-Otchere, has slammed the Office Of President (OSP) for what he claims is a ‘funfair arrest and unnecessary search’ exhibited by the office meted out to the former Minister of Sanitation, Cecilia Dapaah.

    According to him, the OSP’s modus operandi was far from ideal. He expressed dissatisfaction with the approach used by the OSP, suggesting that it could have been handled better or more effectively.

    “ There is a reason why the CID department does not wear police uniforms. The reason is Because an individual is innocent until proven guilty, you don’t want to generate a stigma or a narrative that someone is guilty. So until the person has committed a culpable like an armed robber etc they go in plain clothes so that the individual is not stigmatized. If a special prosecutor goes to arrest in a dramatic fashion and it is live on TV.

    “ You have to wait for the court to judge, the OSP cannot say that Cecila Dapaah has stolen the money.

    “Old people don’t trust internet banking, the banking laws do not frown on keeping monies at home, the police do not cannot prosecute you for keeping money at home,” he added. 

    His comments come after the OSP searched the home of the former Minister, in respect of suspected corruption and corruption-related offences regarding large amounts of money and other valuable items reportedly stolen from her residence.

    Mr Adom-Otchere also denied OSP’s discovery of additional money at Cecilia Abena Dapaah’s residence.

    “We understand that it is untrue and the OSP must come out and clarify, we tried to search about this and what we have is that it is not true.

    “We don’t know why TV3 has been carrying this story since midday. It has no source, neither the Special Prosecutor or his deputy. If TV3 has further and better particulars, they should publish it tomorrow or even tonight.

    “Because our sources indicate that the Special Prosecutor has said it is not true,” he added.

    On Friday, July 21, 2023 the home of the former minister was reported to have been robbed of US$1 million, €300,000 and other valuables by two of her domestic servants.

    According to Madam Dapaah, the reported amounts of money stolen in the media is inconsistent with the original complaint she filed.

    She stepped down from her position owing to pressure from National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament 48 hours after it was revealed that she had lost millions of dollars and cedis in her home.

    According to Madam Cecilia Dapaah, her decision is to prevent the matter from becoming a preoccupation of government and a hindrance to the work of government at such a crucial time.

    “Whereas I can state emphatically that those figures do not represent correctly what my husband and I reported to the Police, I am very much aware of the import of such stories around someone in my position.”

    She also assured of her willingness to cooperate fully with all state agencies to enable them fully establish the facts.

    “I have no doubt whatsoever that at the end of the process, it will be fully established that I have conducted myself with integrity during my period in public service and I will be fully exonerated from all the allegations that have filled the public domain in the past 24 hours,” she added.

  • OSP releases update on Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    OSP releases update on Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has released a fresh statement in relation to the ongoing investigation into suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses involving Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources.

    The investigation centers on substantial sums of cash that were reportedly stolen from Ms. Dapaah’s residence.

    The OSP initiated the investigation on Thursday, July 20, 2023, and has since made significant progress, including the apprehension of Ms. Dapaah and searches conducted at two residential properties linked to her.

    Due to recent developments and ‘new revelations’ discovered during the ongoing investigation, the OSP deemed it necessary to provide an updated statement to keep the public informed.

    The OSP emphasized that the public will be briefed on the outcome of the investigation once it is concluded.

    “On Thursday 20 July 2023, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) commenced investigation into suspected corruption and corruption related offences involving the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah in respect of large cash sums reportedly stolen from her house.

    “The OSP has, since then, taken a number of steps and actions, including placing Ms. Dapaah under arrest and conducting searches at two residential properties associated with her.

    “The OSP is still conducting its investigation. The public will be briefed on the outcome of the investigation when it is concluded, including any further steps the Office may take,” the statement read.


    Source: The Independent Ghana| P.M.A Roberts

  • More cash reportedly found at Cecilia Dapaah’s home – Report

    Former sanitation minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, who resigned over a theft scandal, had more money hidden at one of her residences, a report by Accra-based TV3 has claimed.


    The TV3 news report, citing sources within the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), said it took the officials five hours to count the latest stash of cash that was discovered during a search at her home on Monday, July 24.


    “From the search at her residence yesterday (Monday, July 24), a lot more cash has been discovered and it took officials of the Special Prosecutor close to five hours alone in counting this amount of cash which was discovered in her home,” the TV3 reporter Eric Mawuena Egbeta said in a stand-up piece in front of the OSP offices in Accra.

    He however did not specify which of her two residences – her official one at Cantonments or her private one at Abelemkpe – had the additional sums of money


    The OSP confirmed on Monday that it had arrested and questioned Ms Dapaah for “suspected corruption and corruption-related offences regarding large amounts of money and other valuable items reportedly stolen from her residence”.


    The probe followed a revelation by a court charge sheet that Ms Dapaah and her husband had reported a theft of $1m (£780,000), 300,000 euro ($333,000) and 350,000 Ghana cedis ($30,000), as well as handbags valued at $35,000 and $95,000-worth of jewellery from their Abelemkpe residence last year.


    Ms Dapaah has disputed the figures given in the court document but has not disclosed the actual amount that was stolen. She resigned as minister of sanitation and water resources on Saturday, saying she did not want to distract from the work of government. She added that she was sure that any investigation would show she had acted with integrity.


    Some relatives of the former minister have also been questioned by the OSP about their involvement in the alleged theft and corruption. The OSP said it had also conducted searches at other premises linked to Ms Dapaah.


    The theft case was initially reported to the police in June this year, seven months after it occurred. Two women who worked as domestic workers for the couple were accused of stealing and dissipating some of the stolen money and items. They were arraigned before an Accra Circuit Court last week along with three other individuals who allegedly received some of the money from them.


    The TV3 report has been challenged by some pro-government voices, including Paul Adom-Otchere of Metro TV, who said on his Good Evening Ghana show (July 25) that his checks with the OSP showed that nothing of the sort had been found.


    “We understand that it is untrue and the OSP must come out and clarify, we tried to search about this and what we have is that it is not true.


    “We don’t know why TV3 has been carrying this story since midday. It has no source, neither the Special Prosecutor or his deputy. If TV3 has further and better particulars, they should publish it tomorrow or even tonight.


    “Because our sources indicate that the Special Prosecutor has said it is not true,” he added.


    The scandal has sparked outrage among many Ghanaians who are struggling with a depreciating currency and a troubled economy. The government has blamed dollar hoarders for the woes of the cedi, while critics have accused it of failing to curb corruption and mismanagement.

  • OSP questions relatives of Cecilia Dapaah

    OSP questions relatives of Cecilia Dapaah

    Some close associates of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, are currently being questioned by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) regarding the stolen money case.

    Per reports from JoyNews, these relatives were invited because Madam Dapaah claimed that some of the money belonged to them.

    In response to this information, the OSP expanded its investigation to include the mentioned relatives to ascertain the truth.

    Madam Dapaah, who had earlier spent time in OSP custody, is now on bail with surety.

    The OSP had conducted searches at both her official residence in Cantonments and her private residence in Abelemkpe in connection to the alleged million-dollar cash theft by housekeepers, which ultimately led to her resignation.

    During the search at her residence on Monday, significant findings were reportedly made by the investigators, although the details of the discovery have not been disclosed by the OSP.

    Madam Dapaah has been requested to complete an income and property declaration form to enable the OSP to track any property she acquired and ascertain if it was obtained illegally.

    Media reports have emerged, implicating two housemaids who worked for the Sanitation Minister and her husband at their home, for the theft of substantial sums of money and other items between July and October 2022.

    The charges include the alleged theft of US$1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghana cedis, as well as various valuables like clothing, handbags, perfumes, jewelry, kente cloth, and suits.

    The allegations have resulted in public scrutiny and criticism of Cecilia Dapaah. However, she has contested the reported amounts stolen, citing “noticeable inconsistencies” in the discussions surrounding what she reported to the police.

    Amidst the controversy and the ongoing investigations into the “stolen” cash, Cecilia Dapaah resigned from her position as Sanitation Minister in July 2022.

  • ‘Something substantial’ found in Cecilia Dapaah’s house during search by OSP

    ‘Something substantial’ found in Cecilia Dapaah’s house during search by OSP

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has reportedly found ‘something significant’ during a search at the home of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.

    According to JoyNews sources, the search was conducted on Monday at her private residence in Abelemkpe, as part of the investigation into the alleged theft of millions of dollars and other items by her housekeepers.

    The sources did not disclose what the significant discovery was, but said it could have implications for the case.

    The OSP has also searched Madam Dapaah’s official residence in Cantonments and interrogated some of her close relatives who she claimed owned some of the money.

    Madam Dapaah is currently on bail with surety after spending hours in the custody of the OSP. She has been asked to complete an income and property declaration form so that the OSP can track her assets and determine if they were acquired legally.

    Madam Dapaah resigned from her position as Sanitation Minister on Saturday, July 2022, following media reports of two housemaids who worked for her and her husband facing trial for stealing US$1 million, €300,000 and millions of Ghana cedis between July and October 2022.

    The housemaids, 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei, are also accused of taking clothes, handbags, perfumes, jewellery, kente cloth and suits belonging to Mrs. Dapaah’s husband said to be worth thousands of dollars.

    Madam Dapaah has questioned the amounts alleged to have been stolen, saying there are “noticeable inconsistencies” in the discussions of what she reported to the police.

    She has also denied any wrongdoing and said she is cooperating with the authorities.

    Source: The Independent Ghana| P.M.A Roberts

  • Cecilia should be able to explain the source of her money else she could lose it – Martin Kpebu

    Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu has highlighted Article 286 (4), stating that if the former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Dapaah cannot explain the source of the money allegedly stolen from her house, she could lose it.

    The article specifies that if the money cannot be attributed to income, loan, gift, or inheritance, then it is not considered hers, leading to its forfeiture.

    While Mr. Kpebu acknowledged that the matter was not perfect, he expressed that the state recovering the money was not a negative outcome.

    He emphasized the importance of investigating the case to address concerns of bribery and corruption, which are the primary suspicions of citizens. If there is no evidence but the source of the money remains unexplained, it could result in its loss.

    Mr. Kpebu also stated that public commentary surrounding the alleged stolen monies played a crucial role in compelling the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to carry out its investigation thoroughly.

    The public’s expression of anger and discussion of the scandal served as an incentive for the OSP to work diligently, leaving no room for mistakes or delays in the process.

  • Cecilia Dapaah granted bail

    Cecilia Dapaah granted bail

    Former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, who was detained by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), has been granted bail with surety.

    Her arrest came after the OSP conducted searches at both her official residence in Cantonments and her private residence in Abelemekpe.

    These searches were in connection to an alleged million-dollar cash theft by housekeepers, which ultimately led to her resignation on the previous Saturday.

    On Monday, July 24, 2023, Mrs. Dapaah was taken to her official residence in Cantonments for a thorough search by OSP officials. Subsequently, her residence in Abelemekpe was also searched by agents of the Special Prosecutor.

    The specific details of the arrest and the search operations have not been disclosed yet. However, there are indications that the OSP might share updates with the public about the arrest and the outcome of the searches on Tuesday.

    Although the exact findings from the searches have not been fully revealed, credible sources suggest that the OSP may have come across “something significant.”

    As part of the ongoing investigation, Mrs. Dapaah’s relatives are expected to be questioned.

    Moreover, she has been served with the declaration of income and property forms, indicating the seriousness of the allegations against her.

    Given Mrs. Dapaah’s previous role as Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, her arrest and the subsequent searches have garnered significant attention from the nation, prompting questions and concerns among Ghanaians.

    They eagerly await the OSP’s official statement regarding the developments.

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor, established to combat corruption and related offenses, maintains its commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability.

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=e06Xo3HY5HI
  • When Cecilia Dapaah ‘blasted’ a female intern in 2019

    When Cecilia Dapaah ‘blasted’ a female intern in 2019

    A major news figure in Ghana, the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah, became the subject of public interest in 2019 due to two significant aspects of her story.

    It all began with an audio from the Multimedia Group, where an intern called the minister to request an interview.

    In the audio, Dapaah was heard fuming, claiming disrespect for being contacted directly by an intern without proper authorization.

    The public reacted strongly to the contents of the interview, leading the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources to respond.

    The ministry explained that the minister was in a meeting when the call came and requested the reporter to call later.

    They emphasized that the minister does not intend to intimidate or show rudeness to any media personnel, acknowledging the media’s role as a key partner in national affairs.

    The intern, Rahinatu Abdul Bach, a student of the Ghana Institute of Journalism at the time, shared her perspective on the matter in an opinion titled “Sanitation Minister nearly shattered my dreams – The story of a young female journalist.” She detailed feeling demeaned during the interview with Cecilia Dapaah.

    Currently, there are calls for the former minister to be investigated regarding significant sums of money allegedly stolen from her house. The matter is before an Accra Circuit Court.

  • Vitus Azeem charges OSP, CHRAJ, GRA to probe $1m Cecilia Dapaah case

    Vitus Azeem charges OSP, CHRAJ, GRA to probe $1m Cecilia Dapaah case

    Former Executive Director of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) Vitus Azeem, has urged three key state institutions to take an interest in a case involving Cecilia Dapaah, the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources.

    The case, currently before an Accra Circuit Court, revolves around the theft of $1 million from the minister’s residence by two house helps identified only as Patience and Sarah.

    According to details shared by The Chronicle, the house helps stole various sums of money from the minister’s house in Abelemkpe, including $1 million, €300,000, and several million Ghana cedis.

    During a phone interview, Vitus Azeem, known for his anti-corruption efforts, stated that the Ghana Revenue Authority, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, and the Office of the Special Prosecutor should show interest in the matter.

    He argued that the mandates of these institutions encompass the issues raised in the case, making it essential for their involvement.

    “There are three institutions that come to my mind. The Office of the Special Prosecutor has talked about having a lifestyle audit so, it’s one of the institutions that should be doing something about this.

    “Number two, the Ghana Revenue Authority should investigate it, if the person is doing business, or if some of the monies are gifts or disposal of assets, the GRA will need to find out if they paid tax on these things.

    “And number three is the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice since the minister is a public officer, she is supposed to have declared her assets.

    “So, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice should call for the asset declaration of the minister to look at what was the last time this lady declared her assets and did that declaration include these monies and the other assets we are talking about. If not, then that gives a problem for her,” he explained.

    Also reacting to the news, former President John Dramani Mahama called into question the integrity of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    He wondered if the president would ever set a good example with his appointees.

    “$1m + €300k and millions of GHS in a Ghanaian Minister’s home? Scandalous!! Even if genuinely acquired, why keep millions of hard currency at home? Will @NAkufoAddo ever set a good example for public office holders in his administration?” he tweeted.

  • OSP calls for sufficient funds to aid in fighting corruption

    OSP calls for sufficient funds to aid in fighting corruption

    Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has once again emphasised the need for sufficient budgetary allocation to support the office’s efforts in combating corruption.

    In the Half Yearly Report, concluding in June 2023, the Special Prosecutor expressed concern over the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) operating without a defined budget.

    “We continue to emphasise the need for the State to pay particular attention to the funding needs of the Office,” Mr Agyebeng stated in the report.

    He said the Office had proven that with sufficient funding, it was best placed to prevent and reduce the menace of corruption and corruption-related activities.

    “It is in our collective interest to build a resilient, independent, and technologically advanced Office of the Special Prosecutor to stay ahead of and effectively repress corruption and corruption-related actors,” he said.

    In the half year report, the OSP is pursuing four criminal cases in court, conducting investigations into nine suspected corruption and corruption-related offences, concluded four investigations, with 150 other cases at various levels of consideration.

    The criminal cases include, the Republic versus Sumaila Abdul-Rahman, Stephen Yir-Eru Engmen, Patrick Seidu, and Andrew Kuundaari, who are facing 11 counts of corruption and corruption-related offences on procurement.

    In the case of the Republic versus Issah Seidu, Mr Seidu, an official of the National Insurance Commission (NIC) has been charged with failing to comply with a directive to declare his income and property.

    Mr Seidu and three others are also being investigated for their roles in suspected corruption in the importation of 10,000 bags of rice.

    There is also the Republic versus Adjenim Boateng Adjei and another, where the former Chief Executive of Public Procurement Authority and his brother-in-law are being tried on procurement issues by using public office for profit.

    Mr Adjei has been charged with eight counts of using public office for profit and nine counts of directly and indirectly influencing the procurement process to obtain an unfair advantage in the award of public contracts.

    His brother-in-law has been charged with one count of using public office for profit.

    The fourth criminal case before the court involves Mr Alexander Kwabena Sarfo-Kantanka, the President’s nominee for the position of Chief Executive of Juaben Municipal Assembly in the Ashanti Region, who have been charged with 26 counts of corruption in respect of a public election.

    One of the cases that the OSP has concluded investigations into involves Mr Charles Adu Boahen, a former Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance.

    It is over corruption allegations arising from an investigative piece “Galamsey Economy”, published by Tiger Eye P.I. and investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

    The OSP said it had also had concluded investigation into allegations of the use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue, during his tenure as Secretary to the erstwhile Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM).

    It also arose from an investigative documentary titled “Galamsey Fraud Part I” published by Tiger Eye P.I. and investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

    Investigations into allegations of attempt to bribe members of majority caucus of Parliament by unnamed and wealthy businessman has also been concluded, the OSP stated in the half year report.

    It has also concluded investigations into suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in respect of the procurement and the award of a contract to Turfsport Ghana Limited by the Gaming Commission of Ghana.

  • 3 major cases completed, 150 cases being probed – OSP reveals

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has issued its semi-annual report for the year 2023.

    The report indicates that the office has concluded investigations into three significant cases, with four others currently undergoing prosecution.

    Dated June 30, 2023, the report further states that the OSP has initiated investigations into 150 fresh cases related to corruption.

    This signifies the office’s continued efforts in tackling corruption and promoting accountability within the country.

    “The Office is also investigating one hundred and fifty (150) other cases at various levels of consideration.

    These would be publicised if the Special Prosecutor determines that they are within the mandate of the Office and that they should be moved past the preliminary investigation stage.

    This is a policy intended to protect the privacy of individuals and the business operations of institutions and companies, and to avoid
    unnecessary stigmatization,” the OSP added in its report.

    Among the cases concluded by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) are those involving the Secretary to the former Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Charles Bissue, the attempted bribery of some NPP Members of Parliament by a wealthy businessman, and suspected corruption related to the procurement and contract award to Turfsport Ghana Limited by the Gaming Commission of Ghana.

    Charles Bissue’s case emerged from an investigative documentary titled “Galamsey Fraud” produced by Tiger Eye PI, which brought attention to his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities.

    These cases highlight the OSP’s commitment to investigating and addressing corruption and related offenses in Ghana, aiming to ensure transparency, accountability, and the fair application of justice.

    On his case the OSP in its report said, “Charles Bissue: The Office has concluded investigation into allegations of the use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue, during his tenure as Secretary to the erstwhile Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), arising from an investigative documentary titled Galamsey Fraud”.

    On the allegations of an attempt to bribe members of Parliament by a wealthy businessman the OSP said, “The Office has concluded investigation into allegations of an attempt by an unnamed and wealthy businessman to bribe some members of the majority caucus of Parliament. The Office expresses its gratitude to the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament and his staff for their cooperation and assistance during the investigation”.

    The final case involves allegations of procurement breaches by officials of the Gaming Commission of Ghana. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has been investigating these claims, which pertain to potential misconduct in the procurement processes carried out by the Gaming Commission.

    The OSP’s involvement in this case underscores its mandate to tackle corruption and malpractices within various government institutions. By thoroughly investigating these allegations, the OSP aims to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in the operations of the Gaming Commission of Ghana.

    “The Office has concluded investigation into suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in respect of the procurement and the award of a contract to Turfsport Ghana Limited by the Gaming Commission of Ghana,” OSP said in the report.

    The Special Prosecutor emphasized that directives and further actions regarding the aforementioned cases will be issued in due course. This indicates that the Office is actively working on processing and addressing the matters at hand.

    Additionally, the Office of the Special Prosecutor highlighted four ongoing cases in its report. These cases are currently being investigated and will be subject to appropriate action based on the findings and evidence gathered during the investigations. The Office remains committed to pursuing these cases and ensuring that justice is served.

    “There has not been any convictions or acquittals in respect of the cases pending before the criminal courts during the period under review. Four (4) criminal cases are being tried before the courts”.

    The OSP said it welcomes collaboration and referrals on suspected corruption and corruption related offences from all stakeholders particularly law enforcement agencies.

  • Kissi Agyebeng has refused to learn – Martin Amidu

    Former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu has said that his successor, Kissi Agyebeng lacks understanding with regards to the duties and responsibilities of his office.

    According to him, the “OSP was not established as a corporate fisheries entity to go into the oceans, rivers, and other water bodies of crime, casting its net widely to scoop in every fish the net can catch, and then decide which type of fish meets its fancy to be retained as game or food for sacrifice to the gods of persecution and which to release back into the oceans.”

    His comment follows the arrest and subsequent bailing of former Environment Minister, Fimpong-Boateng.

    Prof Frimpong-Boateng was invited by the OSP on May 16 as “a person necessary for the investigations into suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in respect of the activities and expenditure of the dissolved Inter-ministerial Committee on illegal mining, IMCIM.”

    Although this action by Mr. Agyebeng has been widely criticised especially by the minority NDC, the former has defended the arrest, insisting that the former Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Prof Frimpong-Boateng is not the only person being investigated and neither is he the only government appointee who has been invited.

    He argued that he has a charge to keep.

    “I respect the credentials of the Professor, and I doff my hat to him. You know me very personally, I am an academician as well, and so I respect such people on all scores. I mean the CV is unbelievable, I respect that, and I applaud him for that, but I have a charge to keep. The charge I have to keep is to the Republic of Ghana and to the public. I have been put in this office to investigate corruption and corruption-related offences, to recover assets for the country.”

    But rubbishing this defense, the citizen vigilante said, the “deficiencies in the investigatory and prosecutorial experience of Mr. Kissi Agyebeng is what has haunted him into overdrive to think that he can earn the trust of Ghanaians by appearing to talk tough and threatening to investigate and prosecute “everyone and every person” on mere suspicion of the commission of a corruption offence without first establishing reasonable grounds for such suspicion as though he was on a fishing expedition.”

    In Mr Amidu’s write-up sighted by JoyNews, he explained that, “the ethics governing professional investigators as well as prosecutors do not permit such specialized public officers to intimidate and frighten citizens with threats of arrest and prosecution for the generic offence of corruption and corruption-related offences created under the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959) without indicating to a suspect the specified crime(s) committed or about to be committed within the generic corruption offences.

    Again, “There is no crime under Act 959 known as “alleged or suspected corruption and corruption[1]related offences”. The mandate of the OSP is to “investigate and prosecute specific cases of alleged or suspected corruption and corruption-related offences” (Emphasis supplied). The specific cases of offences the OSP is enjoined to investigate and prosecute are defined under Section 79 of Act 959. Consequently, the citizen is entitled to know from the invitation letter or at the point of arrest the specific offence of alleged or specified suspected corruption and corruption-related offences for which he is reasonably suspected of having violated. The Ghana Police Service which hitherto was responsible for investigating all criminal offences under the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), is not permitted to invite or arrest a citizen for the commission of crime generally without specifying the particular crime or offence for which the citizen is reasonably suspected of commission or about to commit,” Mr. Amidu added.

    In the view of the first Special Prosecutor who resigned from the role after a clash with the government, “The fundamental rights and freedoms of the citizen to fair and impartial investigation and prosecution upon reasonable suspicion of the commission of crime are guaranteed under the Constitution and the Special Prosecutor cannot decide at his whim when and how the guaranteed rights may be enjoyed by the citizen on account of the mandate of his office to investigate and prosecute specified cases of alleged or suspected corruption.”

  • Charles Bissue discontinues case halting OSP from effecting his arrest over Anas’ exposé 

    Charles Bissue discontinues case halting OSP from effecting his arrest over Anas’ exposé 

    Charles Bissue, the former Secretary of the defunct Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), has withdrawn one of his three cases against the Office of Special Prosecutor (OSP).

    The case in question involved Mr. Bissue requesting the court to either halt the OSP’s investigations or include investigative journalist Anas Aremyaw Anas as a suspect. He also sought to restrain the OSP from arresting him. The OSP launched an investigation following a documentary by Anas Aremyaw, in which Mr. Bissue was allegedly filmed accepting bribes.

    During the court proceedings, Nana Kojo Pintoh Gyabi, a member of Mr. Bissue’s legal team, informed the court of their decision to discontinue the case. Dr. Isidore Tufuor, the Director of Prosecution at the OSP, expressed no opposition to the application.

    “This is their own application, if they intend to withdraw same, we are not opposed to it” he stated.

    The court, therefore, struck out the case as withdrawn. This development comes barely a day after Mr. Bissue was arrested and granted bail by the OSP. There are currently two other cases filed by Mr. Bissue pending at the courts against the OSP.

    One is a human rights action in which he alleges his rights have been abused with the other is the action in which he challenges the authority of the investigative body to probe him when the matter has been handled by the police already.

  • OSP has no power to declare Charles Bissue wanted – Lawyer

    Private Legal Practitioner Lawyer Kwame Adofo has stated that the Special Prosecutor Mr Kissi Agyebeng has no power to declare Mr Charles Bissue wanted, neither has the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP)any power to investigate the controversial galamsey report as the office claims.

    According to him, since the issue has not been referred to the OSP by Parliament or the Attorney General, Mr. Kissi Agyebeng has no power to take such a decision and therefore cannot declare Mr Charles Bissue wanted.

    According to him, the only way the OSP can have the mandate to investigate a matter is when the Attorney General or Parliament has referred it to him

    Speaking on Angel FM, Lawyer Kwame Adofo insisted that, “the only way he can get the locust is if these two bodies (the Attorney General and Parliament) refer a case for the OSP to investigate and prosecute”.

    The statement from Lawyer Kwame Adofo comes after the Office of the Special Prosecutor declared the Former Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Charles Cronwell Nanabayin Onuawonto Bissue wanted.

    The order was secured by the Office of the Special Prosecutor after Mr. Bissue failed to honour an invitation by the OSP last month.

    But challenging the Constitutional Act the OSP built its reasons to declare Mr. Bissue wanted, Lawyer Kwame Adofo insisted that “you don’t have an automatic mandate to investigate the matter”. The Attorney General or Parliament must first refer the matter to you. You can decide what case you investigate. If the matter has not been referred to you, it means you have no power to investigate the matter,” he said

    “From what I know, I’ve not heard that the Attorney General has referred the galamsey report to the OSP unless we are not aware then he should let us know”, he stressed.

    Meanwhile, despite the order, a lawyer for Mr. Charles Bissue has insisted that his client will not turn himself in.

  • Non-compliance with OSP’s lawful demands can lead to imprisonment or fines – Lawyer

    Private legal practitioner, Bobby Banson, says one can serve a prison term between two to four years if they fail to honour a lawful invitation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

    According to him, per the OSP Act, refusing to appear before the Special Prosecutor can also warrant a fine since it is considered an offence.

    Speaking in Joy FM Top Story on Tuesday, June 13, Mr. Banson said “when you are invited by the OSP and you do not comply with that invitation or the OSP requires your presence or requires you to bring a document and you do not honour that invitation, that in itself is an offence in the OSP Act.”

    He explained that “the OSP Act says that if you refuse to comply with the lawful demand of the OSP.. so it could be an invitation. So if they invite you and you exercise your right that I will not honour the invitation, I believe they will go to the next step which will be to require your presence.”

    Mr Banson further noted that the OSP has the power to order one’s arrest without a warrant.

    “Looking at the powers of the OSP, the OSP can arrest you, investigate you, and exercise lots of powers under the Act without necessarily going for court orders to do so,” he added.

    His comment comes after former Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Charles Bissue was declared wanted by the Special Prosecutor on June 13.

    Last week, the Office of the Special Prosecutor had secured an order from the court to arrest him.

    This order was secured after Mr Bissue failed to honour an invitation by the Special Prosecutor last month.

    Despite the order, the former Presidential staffer’s lawyer had insisted that his client will not turn himself in.

    But reacting to this, Mr. Banson expressed surprise over the OSP securing a warrant of arrest for Charles Bissue.

    This he says is due to the fact that he is allowed to arrest without a warrant just like a police officer, adding that a police officer can arrest you without a warrant if the officer has reasons to believe one has committed a crime or is in the course of committing a crime.

    He, however, noted that the OSP may have peculiar reasons for securing an arrest warrant.

    Meanwhile, former Secretary of the erstwhile IMCIM says he will avail himself before the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

  • I’ll avail myself, it’s unfortunate I’m being treated as a fugitive – Charles Bissue

    I’ll avail myself, it’s unfortunate I’m being treated as a fugitive – Charles Bissue

    The former Secretary of the defunct Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining, Charles Bissue has expressed disappointment over the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) publishing his photo as if he were a fugitive.

    He explained that he’s in the country and not on the run.

    “I am within the jurisdiction, it is unfortunate that my photos have gone out as though I were a fugitive but that is not the case. So everyone should calm down. I will go so that the truth is revealed,” he said.

    Mr. Bissue’s comments come after the Special Prosecutor on Tuesday declared him a wanted person.

    This comes days after the Office of the Special Prosecutor secured an order from the court to arrest him.

    This order was secured after Mr Bissue failed to honour an invitation by the Special Prosecutor last month.

    Despite the order, the former Presidential staffer’s lawyer had insisted that his client will not turn himself in.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Mr Bissue said will avail himself for the Special Prosecutor to furnish him with the information he wanted. According to him, he has nothing to hide.

    He noted that going to meet the Special Prosecutor or any agency he’ll be invited for questioning “is an opportunity to redeem my image more.”

    Mr Bissue said he knows and understands the law, adding that “I have been to the Special Prosecutor twice during Martin Amidu’s tenure, I went to NIB twice and CID and provided whichever question was asked.”

    When asked why it has taken him long to respond to the OSP’s invite for him to be declared wanted, he said that he was not in Accra at the time of the invite, and therefore responded to honour the invite the following week.

    He added that he wrote to the OSP saying he had an emergency to attend to, but the Special Prosecutor insisted he shows up the same day, adding that it was during that same time he issued the arrest warrant.

  • Arrest of Prof Frimpong-Boateng disrespectful – Prof Gyampo tells OSP

    Arrest of Prof Frimpong-Boateng disrespectful – Prof Gyampo tells OSP

    A Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana’s Political Science Department has criticised the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, for arresting former Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Frimpong-Boateng; describing the move as disrespectful.

    Prof Ransford Gyampo believes that the arrest of the former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation was disrespectful and unnecessary.

    Prof. Gyampo in a statement acknowledged that the Special Prosecutor has the right to invite Prof. Frimpong Boateng to assist in investigating the issues raised in his report, which was privately submitted to the President.

    However, he emphasized that Prof. Frimpong Boateng should not be arrested without being charged, as it is disrespectful and constitutes an unnecessary show of power and harassment.

    “I do not believe in this Special Prosecutor arrangement. I researched for the team that produced the first-ever document that called for the review of the 1992 Constitution. We made recommendations for an Independent Prosecutor and never a Special Prosecutor who would walk in the shadows of a partisan Attorney-General.

    “The Special Prosecutor must therefore tone down on his youthful exuberance and must not be rushing to please anybody because, the office is not independent after all, from the control of politicians. We asked for the separation of the Attorney General from the Ministry of Justice and the creation of an Independent Public Prosecutor who cannot be ordered by the Attorney General to pursue a case or discontinue it.”

    “This notwithstanding, the Special Prosecutor has every right to invite Prof Frimpong Boateng to assist in getting to the bottom of some of the issues raised in his report, which he never published, but privately submitted to the President. Indeed he can be invited to assist in investigations but he cannot be arrested without being charged. It is disrespectful and an unnecessary show of power as well as harassment to Prof Frimpong Boateng,” Prof. Gyampo disclosed in a statement.

    Prof. Gyampo’s comments followed the revelation that the former Chairman of the dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) was invited to answer questions about suspected corruption and corruption-related offences related to the activities and expenditure of the IMCIM.

    In an interview with Joy News, the former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation pointed out that, “If I am prosecuted, I am not scared. Why should I be scared? I do not see any possibility of me being convicted. But look, in this life, the Son of God Jesus Christ was convicted and killed.”

    Professor Frimpong-Boateng, who authored a bombshell report exposing supposed efforts by some persons to undermine the government’s fight against illegal mining (galamsey), said: “If bad people want to kill you, they know what to do to kill you. If people who have the power to do things want to ditch you, they will know how to do it because it happens. So whatever you are doing, we should be careful that we are doing everything in the interest of Ghana.”

  • Charles Bissue seeks court intervention to halt OSP from investigating him again

    Charles Bissue seeks court intervention to halt OSP from investigating him again

    A former Presidential staffer, Charles Bissue, has gone to the High Court to stop the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) from investigating him over suspected corruption and corruption-related offences involving a public officer.

    According to Mr. Bissue, an investigation cannot be launched when a copy of the petition forming the basis of the investigation has not been given to him.

    In a writ sighted by JoyNews, Mr Bissue argued that, the OSP in it half-year report dated December 31, 2022 had stated that “the Office has concluded investigation into the allegation of the use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue during his tenure as secretary to the erstwhile Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) arising from an investigative documentary titled Galamsey Fraud Part 1 published by Tiger Eye P.I and the journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.”

    But in view of this and notwithstanding a suit against the OSP, the Office in a new letter dated May 3, 2023 has informed him of ongoing investigations into the activities of the IMCIM.

    According to the letter, he is still considered a person of interest, hence the need for him to avail himself for an interview.

    This is the second time Mr. Bissue is suing the Special Prosecutor since the release of the documentary by Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

    Earlier, he had argued that the police have already investigated and exonerated him of any wrongdoing.

    He is therefore seeking a declaration from the court that upon a true interpretation of the OSP Act, 2017 (Act 959), the OSP does not have the power to review an investigation done by the police.

    Again, he is seeking a declaration that the powers granted the OSP under Act 959 does not allow the anti-graft body to investigate and prosecute him when the subject matter had already been investigated by the police.

    Mr Bissue also wants the court to declare that the OSP cannot investigate him without investigating Anas and Tiger Eye P.I.

    Finally, he is seeking an order perpetually restraining the OSP from investigating him over the same issue investigated by the police, unless the police refers the matter to the OSP.

    Background

    The OSP, in December last year, announced that it was investigating indigenous mining firm, Akonta Mining Limited, Mr Bissue, some officials of the Lands Commission, Forestry Commission, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, some mining entities, individuals and political party officials over suspected corruption relating to illegal mining.

    A statement signed by the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, and issued in Accra on December 10 last year, said Mr Bissue was already being investigated on allegations that he used his office for private gain.

    “The investigation includes the active and ongoing enquiry into allegations of use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue during his tenure as Secretary to the IMCIM, arising from an investigative documentary titled ‘Galamsey Fraud Part I’ published by Tiger Eye P.I.,” the statement said.

    But Mr. Bissue has refuted all allegations made in the documentary against him.

    “As I have said countless times that money was not a bribe and I did not make any demands whatsoever from any operative or beneficiary of illegal mining while I served on the IMCIM,” he said in a recent statement.

    Subsequently, in July 2019, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service exonerated Mr Bissue from any wrongdoing or allegation of corruption.

    The CID concluded that the documentary which was aired was not a true reflection of what transpired between Mr. Bissue and one Yaw Ben of ORR Resource Enterprise.

    “The CID investigations primarily relied on the documentary and other sources, as already indicated, but the lead investigator of the Tiger Eye documentary, Mr Anas Aremeyaw Anas, failed to avail himself to assist in investigations and also failed to provide a copy of the unedited version of the documentary,” the CID report said.

  • Breaking: Prof Frimpong-Boateng arrested over corruption-related activities

    Breaking: Prof Frimpong-Boateng arrested over corruption-related activities

    The former chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, was detained for his involvement in the committee’s work.

    On May 16, per reports, Professor Frimpong was informed of his arrest during interrogation with officers at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

    The arrest centres on alleged ¢320 million spent by the Committee but yet to be accounted for.

    IMCIM was established government to clamp down on illegal small mining also known as galamsey which was causing havoc to the country’s water resources and lands.

    JoyNews sources say he is to account for drones and other equipment bought to be used for the fight against galamsey.

    He is on a ¢5 million bail.

    Last month, the OSP invited Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng over alleged corruption in the activities of the defunct IMCIM.

    The renowned surgeon was invited as “a person necessary for investigations” into the allegations and was expected to assist the Office investigate the claims.

    In January 2021, President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo dissolved the Committee on Illegal Mining which

    The President’s decision was to move the fight against illegal mining from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to the Lands and Natural Resources Ministry.

  • I’ve provided OSP with information about bribery accusations made against businessman – Appiah Kubi

    MP for Asante-Akim-North, Andy Appiah Kubi, has made claims that he has provided Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng all the information about claims of bribery efforts by a bussinessman against New Patriotic Party (NPP) lawmakers who demanded the resignation of Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

    The Special Prosecutor invited Andy Appiah Kubi for interrogation over the allegations that a wealthy businessman tried inducing them to back down on their demands. 

    Speaking to journalists after appearing before the Special Prosecutor on May 10, he indicated his readiness to avail himself for further questioning. 

    “He needed information from me and I have given the information, I have given a statement and that is the cooperation [I’m talking about]. I already appeared before the committee [and] I have testified, if they find it necessary to invite me again I will avail myself,” the Member of Parliament for Asante-Akim North noted.

    Details of his information are not readily known.

    Background

    Andy Appiah Kubi and over 50 New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs in 2022 called for the removal of the Finance Minister.

    The MPs later softened their stance after meeting President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on the matter.

    They kowtowed to the President’s pleas to have the Minister stay in office to seal Ghana’s bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    Later, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu (MP, Suame, Majority Leader and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs) and Andy Appiah-Kubi (MP, Asante Akim North) earlier alleged that a supposed businessman tried to influence the group with money brought to Parliament in a bid to get the MPs to abort their decision.

    The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, said Parliament will investigate the allegation of bribery levelled against the unnamed popular businessman.

    “The alleged bribery has come to my notice, and we will investigate to see if it is true and the motive behind it,” he said to the Parliamentary Press Corps, in Accra.

    Pressure group, Occupy Ghana, on November 3, 2022, petitioned the Special Prosecutor to probe the allegations.

  • SP welcomes US Assistant Secretary for Int’l Affairs

    SP welcomes US Assistant Secretary for Int’l Affairs

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has received the United States’ Assistant Secretary for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Todd D. Robinson.

    He arrived in Ghana on Tuesday, May 9.

    He had a series of discussions with Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng at the office of the Special Prosecutor in Accra.

    The discussions centred on cooperation and shared commitment on detecting and deterring corruption.

    Assistant Secretary for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the US, Todd D. Robinson, has paid a working visit to the OSP.

Discussions with the SP, Kissi Agyebeng, centred on cooperation and shared commitment on detecting and deterring corruption. pic.twitter.com/hZdgOYevYS

— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) May 9, 2023
  • OSP reveals probe into galamsey activities in IMCIM report on-going

    OSP reveals probe into galamsey activities in IMCIM report on-going

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has revealed that its investigation into the country’s unlawful mining activities is well underway.

    Mr Kissi Agyebeng’s administration maintains that it is already aware of the issues raised in a newly leaked report written by Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, the former Environment Minister.

    This follows calls from the general public for the office to take a keen interest in the report which exposes many infractions in the fight against galamsey. It also names top government officials supposedly involved in the activity.

    This included an allegation that a garden in President Akufo-Addo’s Kyebi home was also affected by illegal mining which took the Minister’s intervention to halt.

    We're investigating matters raised in Frimpong-Boateng's galamsey report - Special Prosecutor

    Most of the government officials named in the report have denied any wrongdoing.

    In a May 2 communique, Mr Agyebeng welcomed the calls for an investigation and also assured that his “investigation is ongoing and far-reaching and it also covers the matters raised in the report published by the head of the dissolved IMCIM.”

    He also added that action will be taken against persons found culpable in the activity.

    Meanwhile, the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame says the slow pace of criminal trials and grant of bail to illegal miners who return to sites is hampering the fight against ‘galamsey’.

    He however says more than 700 persons are standing trial for various offences.

  • NDA Case: Suspects to face court today

    NDA Case: Suspects to face court today

    The Tamale High court 2 is expected to hear the corruption-related case today, January, 31, 2023 involving four officials of the authority charged by the Office of the Special Prosecutor(OSP).

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) charged the Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Development Authority (NDA), Mr. Sumaila Abdul-Rahman and his two deputies, Stephen Yir-eru Engmen in Charge of Operations, and Mr. Patrick Seidu, the Deputy Chief Executive (Finance & Administration) for alleged corruption.

    Also charged with the three is Mr. Andrew Kuundaari, the Chief Executive of A&QS Consortium Limited, a private consultancy firm.

    The four are charged with conspiracy to directly or indirectly influence the procurement process to obtain an unfair advantage in the award of a procurement contract.

    This will be first court appearance of the four suspects.

  • Outcome of investigation against Charles Bissue to be revealed by OSP soon

    Outcome of investigation against Charles Bissue to be revealed by OSP soon

    A half-year report on the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) operations in 2022 has been made public.

    The 13-page report provides information on the corruption cases that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has looked into and tried, as well as highlights of the Office’s work from August 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022.

    Two cases are listed as having been resolved in the report that Special Prosecutor Mr. Kissi Agyebeng signed. One of these is the investigation into charges that Charles Bissue, a member of the presidential staff, used his position for financial benefit.

    According to the report, “The Office has concluded investigation into allegations of the use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue, during his tenure as Secretary to the erstwhile Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), arising from an investigative documentary titled Galamsey Fraud Part I published by Tiger Eye P.I. and the investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.”

    It noted that, “The Special Prosecutor or an authorised officer will issue directives and further action on the matter in due course.”

    The OSP claims that the report’s distribution complies with Section 3(3) of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959).

    It should would be recalled that the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, began looking into several public officials in October of last year because of their alleged involvement in illicit mining.

    Some employees of the Lands Ministry, the Forestry Commission, and the disbanded Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining are the subject of the investigation (IMCIM).

    Charles Bissue is accused of using his position as secretary to the IMCIM for personal advantage, according to a news statement from the Office of the Special Prosecutor on Monday, October 10. The investigation is still ongoing, according to the press release.

    However, in December, Mr. Charles Bissue secured an injunction at an Accra High Court to stop the Special Prosecutor from investigating him.

    The former Secretary of the defunct Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) prayed the court to prevent the Office of the Special Prosecutor from investigating him.

    In a writ dated December 23, the court ordered the interlocutory injunction to prevent pending the determination of the suit.

  • Galamsey fight: Be thorough and transparent in your probe – Ken Ashigbey to OSP

    The Convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining says Ghanaians should support the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s investigation into alleged corruption in the galamsey fight.

    Dr. Ken Ashigbey said the OSP must be encouraged to do his work adequately.

    According to him, there has been a lot of allegations and counter allegations which requires a probe to ascertain the facts.

    “The system is replete with a lot of cases and a lot of challenges that definitely have issues of corruption,” he said in an interview with Citi FM on Monday.

    Dr. Ashigbey thus asked the OSP to be thorough and transparent with the investigations.

    He insisted that nobody should be left off the hook as the canker threatens the entire nation.

    “It is good that the OSP [Office of the Special Prosecutor] has gotten involved in it, and we need to encourage the OSP. We need all the transparency that is required out of this.”

    “That is the only way in which we will be able to save ourselves from this sharp drive towards the extension we are on,” Dr. Ashigbey added.

    Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng on Monday, October 10 begun investigating some public officials over their alleged involvement in illegal mining.

    The investigation targets some officials of the Lands Ministry, the Forestry Commission, and the dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM).

    In a press release issued, the Office of the Special Prosecutor said there is an ongoing enquiry into allegations of use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue during his tenure as secretary to the IMCIM.

    This is based on an investigative documentary by Tiger Eye P.I.

    “The investigation further targets the activities of Akonta Mining Limited and other companies; nationals of foreign countries allegedly involved in illegal mining, and allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences against some Municipal and District Chief Executives and political party officials,” the press release added.

    Source: Myjoyonline

  • Labianca ‘fights’ OSP over implicative report

    The management of La Bianca Company Limited has refuted claims that it obtained a custom advance ruling through “influence peddling or trading of influence,” noting that they have consistently obeyed the law when requesting advance rulings under the customs legislation.

    The company claims that it has not received any formal written documentation from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) about its findings.

    “Over the years, the company has, in accordance with due process, applied for customs advance rulings under the Customs Act 2015 (Act 891). Indeed, over the years, the company has been tax compliant and has discharged all its obligations dutifully. Due to the nature of the operations of importers like us, the Ghana Revenue Authority, per Act 891, conducts periodic post clearance audits to determine possible undervaluation or overpayments of taxes,” a statement from management said in part.

    The statement added that they believe that report findings contradict their recollection of events and submissions made to the office.

    It further stated that the management takes the findings of the Office of the Special Prosecutor seriously and has consequently instructed lawyers to take the necessary action on this matter.

    “The Labianca management will abide by the laws of Ghana as they are committed to contributing their quota to national development.

    “As importers of quality frozen foods, we will always comply with the laws of Ghana. We are committed to contributing our quota to national development by investing right in our cold store infrastructure, and value chain, creating jobs, and paying taxes,” portions of the statement further said.

    Below is the statement