Ghana’s National Security has arrested 14 people, including 10 foreign nationals and four Ghanaians, in connection with missing containers of goods and materials belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The arrests were made following an ongoing investigation into the disappearance of 1,300 shipping containers, which reportedly contained essential electrical equipment. Energy and Green Transition Minister John Abdulai Jinapor revealed the update during a visit to factories linked to the case on March 28.
Missing ECG Cables Found in Factories
The minister toured Dangfang Company Ltd and Ponlok Manufacturing Company Ltd near Shai Hills in the Greater Accra Region, as well as a warehouse in Kpone. At these locations, he found ECG-labeled cable drums and cables being smelted into aluminum rods for export.
In Kpone, a large warehouse was discovered containing suspected ECG cables, further proving the extent of the crime. Minister Jinapor vowed to hold all perpetrators accountable, stating:
“We will pursue and prosecute anyone found guilty over the missing 1,300 shipping containers and their contents belonging to the ECG.”
He added that the ministry might seek a court order to sell assets belonging to those convicted to recover losses and invest the proceeds into Ghana’s electricity grid.
Investigation Uncovers Syndicate Since 2019
Preliminary findings indicate that the theft of ECG goods has been ongoing since 2019, orchestrated by a well-organized syndicate. Minister Jinapor vowed to dismantle the group, emphasizing that this was a criminal act that would not be tolerated.
“Clearly, these are ECG cables meant for use by ECG, but they end up in these factories and are smelted into aluminum rods. That is criminal.”
He also dismissed any political motivations behind the case, urging the public to focus on bringing the culprits to justice.
Over-Procurement by ECG Raises Concerns
The minister disclosed concerning over-expenditure by ECG. In 2014, ECG’s approved procurement budget was $1.397 billion, but actual spending reached $8.2 billion. The same trend continued in 2023 and 2024, raising questions about financial mismanagement.
Security Agencies Committed to Justice
Chief Superintendent Osman Alhassan, Director of Investigations at National Security, confirmed the 14 arrests and revealed that some suspects attempted to bribe officers but were unsuccessful. He assured that the team is working to trace and recover more stolen items, including transformers reportedly found elsewhere.
Minister Jinapor reaffirmed his commitment to recovering all missing containers, stating:
“We will trace every container. They have serial numbers, manifests, and we will ensure that the law takes its course.”
The investigation continues as authorities work to hold all those responsible accountable and prevent future theft of state assets.