By: Akua Oteng Amponsah
The Ghana Gold Board Taskforce has apprehended an American citizen, Smart Philander, a Moroccan national, Nina Elfseky, and four Ghanaian accomplices for engaging in illicit gold trading activities without a license.
The suspects, identified as Nana Yaw Sarpong Boateng, Sowa Elisha, Evans Arhin, and Arnold Otutey, were arrested at the SSNIT Emporium near Marina Mall in Accra following weeks of surveillance and intelligence operations.
In a statement released by the Board, the Taskforce seized approximately 2.1 kilograms of gold valued at GHS 2.2 million, along with gold refining equipment. The suspects have been charged with:
1. Conspiracy to engage in gold trading without a license
2. Engaging in gold trading and assaying without a license
3. Attempting to refine gold illegally
According to the Gold Board, offenses contravene Sections 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and 26(1) of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).
The Gold Board emphasized its commitment to enforcing laws governing the gold trade and marketing industry.
The Board however warned that any form of gold trading, assaying, or refining without a license is illegal and punishable by law.
