The Ghana Gold Board Taskforce has arrested six individuals — including an American and a Moroccan — for allegedly engaging in illegal gold trading valued at over GH₵2.2 million.
The suspects — identified as Smart Philander (American), Nina Elfseky (Moroccan), and four Ghanaians: Nana Yaw Sarpong Boateng, Sowa Elisha, Evans Arhin, and Arnold Otutey — were apprehended at the SSNIT Emporium near Marina Mall in Accra after weeks of covert surveillance and intelligence operations.
According to the GooldBod, the group was caught attempting to purchase and assay 2.1 kilograms of gold without a valid licence, in clear violation of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).
Taskforce officers also found gold refining equipment in the possession of the American suspect, confirming their intent to refine gold illegally within Ghana’s jurisdiction.
The suspects have been arraigned before an Accra court on multiple charges, including conspiracy, illegal gold trading, and attempting to refine gold without authorisation, contrary to the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and Act 1140.
In a statement, GoldBod reaffirmed its determination to crack down on unlicensed gold trading and warned both local and foreign nationals that gold buying, assaying, or refining without a valid licence is a punishable offence.
Investigations are ongoing, and officials say further details will be released as the case develops.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
