GoldBod arrests American, Moroccan and four Ghanaians over illegal gold trading

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Taskforce has arrested six individuals — including an American and a Moroccan national — for engaging in illegal gold trading and refining activities without a licence.

The suspects, identified as Smart Philander, an American; Nina Elfseky, a 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 surveillance and intelligence operations.

According to the Gold Board, the group was caught attempting to purchase and assay about 2.1 kilograms of gold, valued at approximately GHC2.2 million, without authorisation as required under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

During the operation, the Taskforce 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 a court in Accra on multiple charges, including:

• Conspiracy to engage in gold trading without a licence;

• Engaging in gold trading and assaying without a licence; and

• Attempting to refine gold illegally — offences 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).

In a statement, the Ghana Gold Board said the arrests highlight its unwavering commitment to enforcing laws regulating the gold trade and marketing sector and ensuring that only licensed entities operate within the legal framework.

It further cautioned both local and foreign nationals that any form of gold trading, assaying, or refining without a licence from the Board is a criminal offence punishable by law.

Investigations are ongoing, and the Board says further updates will be provided as the case progresses.