ACCRA, Ghana – The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has uncovered a wide-reaching corruption scheme in Ghana’s petroleum sector, allegedly spearheaded by three individuals: Abdul Hamid, Ammoua, and Newman. The trio is accused of siphoning over $280 million from oil marketing companies between 2022 and late 2024.
According to OSP investigators, the suspects exploited their positions under the guise of official duties linked to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), allegedly coercing payments from oil marketers through threats and regulatory pressure. Investigators note that $24 million was reportedly delivered directly to Abdul Hamid, while $227 million was funneled through intermediaries. Portions of these illicit funds were allegedly laundered via the acquisition of fuel stations, haulage trucks, and real estate—both locally and abroad—to obscure their origins.
The accused include seven individuals and three companies: Prudence Ltd., Cal Logistics Ltd., and Keynes Energy Ltd., all facing 25 counts, ranging from extortion and money laundering to abuse of office. One suspect, Osetitweji, remains at large. The others are expected to appear in court soon.
The OSP has issued a public advisory, urging all petroleum institutions to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities. Prosecutors highlight that the case exposes serious gaps in regulatory oversight and escalates the call for enhanced accountability in Ghana’s downstream oil industry.
The investigation, launched in November 2024, is part of the OSP’s wider crackdown on systemic corruption in the energy sector. Authorities have begun securing freezing orders on several properties and vehicles linked to the suspects, with further asset recovery efforts ongoing. Criminal charges are anticipated to be filed by the end of June 2025, with a follow-up briefing planned to disclose the identities of all accused, seized assets, and recovery steps.
REPORTED BY ABRAHAMS JULIANA
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