Govt deports 3 foreigners, prosecutes 3 others over alleged gold smuggling

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has begun enforcing the newly enacted Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140), drawing a firm line between violations committed before and after the law came into effect.

At a press briefing on Tuesday, May 14, GoldBod spokesperson Prince Minkah revealed that three foreign nationals arrested for attempted gold smuggling before the April 30 deadline will be deported, while another three—detained after the law took effect—will face prosecution.

The six suspects, all foreign nationals, were arrested in two separate operations—one in the Ashanti Region and the other in Anyinam. GoldBod says the timing of the arrests has determined the consequences.

“They will be repatriated to their home country to reunite with their families,” Minkah clarified.

The individuals set for deportation, all Indian nationals, were apprehended prior to the implementation of Act 1140. Though their actions breached existing regulations, they did not fall under the scope of the stricter penalties outlined in the new legislation.

In contrast, the three suspects arrested in Anyinam after April 30 will face full prosecution under the new law, which grants exclusive rights over local gold trading to the Ghana Gold Board.

“If you’re a foreigner and caught trading gold illegally, you will face the law,” Minkah cautioned, pointing to the tough enforcement measures built into the act.

GoldBod officials confirmed the seizure of several items from the latter group, including cash in U.S. dollars and gold counting machines. These materials have been confiscated and will serve as evidence in the upcoming legal proceedings.

The Ghana Gold Board Act was introduced to curb gold smuggling and reinforce state control over the mineral trade. As part of its rollout, a grace period was granted to allow foreign entities to exit the domestic gold market, which expired on April 30.

Mr. Minkah emphasized that the legislation is aimed at restoring integrity to the gold sector and ensuring that the economic benefits of Ghana’s resources remain within the country.

As enforcement efforts intensify, GoldBod says it is scaling up surveillance and working closely with security agencies to prevent future violations.

“The rules are clear. Foreigners can no longer operate in our local gold trade. There will be no excuses moving forward,” he warned.