According to 3News, the High Court has dismissed an application filed by former National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Chief Executive Officer Mustapha Hamid, who sought permission to travel abroad while standing trial. Hamid is the first accused in the case of The Republic v Mustapha Hamid & 7 Others, which involves allegations of extortion within the petroleum sector. The Office of the Special Prosecutor opposed the request. In its ruling on Thursday, October 22, 2026, the court determined that Hamid failed to provide compelling reasons to justify a temporary relaxation of his bail conditions. Consequently, the existing travel restrictions remain in force. Hamid, a former Minister for Information, is being tried alongside seven other individuals. The court previously dismissed an application by the accused persons to strike out the charge sheet. The case is currently moving toward a case management conference as the court prepares for trial.
Update (18:10 GMT): The Ghana Report also reported on this story under the headline "High Court rejects Mustapha Hamid’s bid to travel abroad during OSP trial". Read the The Ghana Report report.
Update (18:10 GMT): Rainbow Radio also reported on this story under the headline "High Court blocks Mustapha Hamid's request to travel overseas". Read the Rainbow Radio report.
Update (18:11 GMT): MyJoy News also reported on this story under the headline "High Court dismisses Mustapha Hamid’s application to travel abroad amid OSP trial". Read the MyJoy News report.
Update (05:10 GMT): The High Street Journal also reported on this story under the headline "Court Rejects Mustapha Hamid’s Bid to Travel While on Trial". Read the The High Street Journal report.