Accra: The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Taskforce has arrested six people for engaging in illegal gold trading without a license in Accra, after weeks of surveillance and intelligence operations.
According to Ghana News Agency, the individuals arrested include four Ghanaians: Nana Yaw Sarpong Boateng, Sowa Elisha, Evans Arhin, and Arnold Otutey, alongside an American citizen, Smart Philander, and a Moroccan national, Nina Elfseky. A statement issued in Accra by the Board indicated that the arrests occurred at the SSNIT Emporium, near Marina Mall in Accra.
The suspects were apprehended while attempting to buy and assay approximately 2.1 kilogrammes of gold, valued at about GHS 2.2 million, without the necessary license as mandated under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140). During the operation, the Taskforce also uncovered gold refining equipment in the possession of the American suspect, further confirming their intent to refine gold illegally within Ghana’s jurisdiction.
The individuals have been arraigned in Accra on several charges, including conspiracy to engage in gold trading without a license, engaging in gold trading and assaying without a license, and attempting to illegally refine gold. These actions are contrary to Sections 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and 26(1) of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).
The arrests highlight GoldBod’s steadfast commitment to enforcing the laws governing the gold trade and marketing industry, ensuring that only licensed entities operate within the legal framework. The Board has reminded the public that any form of gold trading, assaying, or refining without a license from the Ghana Gold Board is illegal and subject to prosecution.
Investigations are currently ongoing, and further updates will be provided as the case progresses.