An Accra High Court has granted bail to a staff member of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) facing allegations linked to the unlawful removal of a GPHA tugboat. The bail order was delivered on January 29, 2026, as part of judicial proceedings relating to the high-profile case.
The accused, whose identity has been withheld in court records, is alleged to have conspired in the transport and unauthorised use of a GPHA-owned tugboat. The matter came to light in late 2025 when the tugboat was discovered to be missing from its designated berth, prompting internal and police investigations.
During the bail hearing before the High Court, the prosecution opposed bail, arguing that the offences in the case were serious and carried significant public interest implications. The prosecution also cited concerns about ensuring the accused’s availability for trial and the need to protect evidence.
However, the court granted bail in the sum of GH¢2,500,000, with conditions tailored to secure the accused’s appearance for subsequent hearings. Among the conditions are the provision of two sureties, one of whom must be justified with landed property in the Accra area. The accused is also required to surrender their passport to the court registrar and report to the registrar every Monday.
In granting bail, the court emphasised that bail is not a declaration of innocence but a constitutional right available to an accused person unless specific legal exceptions apply. The judge noted that the prosecution had not demonstrated sufficient grounds to justify continued detention in this particular instance.
The alleged offence involves the unauthorised removal of a GPHA vessel, which the prosecution says was taken without proper documentation or clearance from relevant authorities. The case has attracted public attention due to its links with a critical state asset and the involvement of public institutional staff.