A circuit court sitting in Accra has remanded a Customs Division officer and three other individuals in connection with an alleged attempt to smuggle gold through the Kotoka International Airport. According to a Ghana News Agency report the gold is estimated to be worth over two million United States dollars. The suspects faced multiple charges including conspiracy to commit a crime and attempting to export minerals without a license during their initial court appearance.
The prosecution led by security agencies informed the court that the Customs official allegedly assisted three other persons in bypassing security protocols at the airport. A MyJoyOnline report indicates that the gold weighed approximately 42 kilograms and was concealed in hand luggage. Security personnel intercepted the group at the departure terminal before they could board an international flight.
Official court records show that the suspects pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against them by the state. The defense counsel argued for bail stating that the accused persons have fixed places of abode and would cooperate with investigators. However the presiding judge denied the application for bail citing the gravity of the offense and the ongoing nature of the investigation by the National Intelligence Bureau.
Information provided by Citi Newsroom states that the gold has been seized and remains in the custody of the Bank of Ghana for safekeeping and verification. The court has adjourned the case to a later date to allow the prosecution to complete its evidence gathering process. Legal representatives for the Customs Division have not yet issued a public statement regarding the administrative status of the officer involved in the case.