NSB scandal: ‘Delay in filing charges was due to discovery of new corruption scheme’ — AG

Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, has revealed that the delay in filing charges in the National Signals Bureau (NSB) scandal was due to the uncovering of an additional corruption scheme involving the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL).

Addressing the media at a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, April 30, Dr Ayine explained that fresh findings by investigators revealed another criminal enterprise allegedly orchestrated by former NSB director, Kwabena Adu Boahene, and his associates.

In March, Dr Ayine first announced the arrest and detention of Mr. Adu Boahene and others linked to what he described as a “criminal enterprise” that led to the loss of over GH¢49.1 million from state accounts — equivalent to $7 million at the time.

The funds were allegedly siphoned through fraudulent contracts and payments channelled via companies owned by Adu Boahene and his wife, including Advantage Solutions Ltd, Vertex Properties Ltd, Vertex Solutions, and BNC Communications Bureau Ltd.

But speaking on Wednesday, the Attorney General revealed the scope of the scandal had widened.

“Our diligent investigation team came across yet another scheme… involving Ghana Water Company Limited,” he said.

Dr Ayine explained that between 2020 and 2022, GWCL paid GH¢1.3 million monthly for secure internet services purportedly rendered by the National Signals Bureau.

However, investigations showed the payments were being redirected to the private company, BNC Communications, owned by the accused.

“Every two weeks, GH¢650,000 left Ghana Water’s account, not to NSB, but to BNC Communications,” he stated.

He confirmed that upon conclusion of investigations, charges had been filed against Adu Boahene, his wife Angela Adjei Boateng, Mildred Donkor (a former UNB Bank staff), and Advantage Solutions Ltd.

The charges include stealing, defrauding by false pretences, causing financial loss to the state, money laundering, and use of public office for profit.

Meanwhile, the new one involving the Ghana Water Company, according to the Attorney General, will be pursued separately.