GH₵125 million is set to be recovered from Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), following findings that the company received overpayments from the state.
This was announced by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) during a media briefing in Accra on Thursday, October 30.
Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng explained, “The OSP will recover a total amount of GH₵125 from SML by way of disgorgement of unjust enrichment of overpayment by the return of the benefit this amount obtained unfairly at the expense of the Republic.”
The OSP investigation found that SML lacked the expertise and capacity to deliver the transaction audit and external price verification services it was contracted to provide. The company also failed to submit invoices supported by verified reports, resulting in automatic payments detached from actual performance.
According to the OSP, investigations revealed that SML lacked the expertise and capacity to carry out the transaction audit and external price verification services it was contracted for.
The company, he said failed to provide invoices supported by verified reports, which resulted in automatic payments disconnected from actual performance.
Highlighting further issues with the payment system for downstream petroleum audits, Mr. Agyebeng explained, “Variable percentage-based payments created incentives to inflate figures, further increasing undeserved payments.”
He further added, “As part of the process, the OSP will seek to recover the financial loss caused to the Republic from the persons listed above,” emphasizing the office’s commitment to restoring public funds.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
