“Former NPA boss, others granted GH¢2 million bail over GH¢280M corruption Scandal”

Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, former head of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has been granted bail in the amount of GH¢2 million amid an ongoing corruption probe spearheaded by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). The investigation centers around a staggering GH¢280 million extortion and money laundering scandal linked to the petroleum sector.

Under the terms of his release, Dr. Abdul-Hamid must present two sureties who each earn a verified monthly net income of at least GH¢5,000. He is also obligated to report to the OSP every two weeks as investigations continue.

The case, which spans alleged offenses between 2022 and 2024, names Dr. Abdul-Hamid as the lead suspect in a broader network involving ten individuals and several corporate organizations. Prosecutors believe the accused played key roles in a scheme that targeted Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and Bulk Oil Distribution Companies (BDCs), illegally generating funds that were allegedly laundered through the acquisition of luxury vehicles, upscale properties, and fuel stations.

Among those facing similar accusations are Jacob Kwamena Amuah, Coordinator of the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund, and Wendy Newman, an NPA employee. Both have also secured GH¢2 million bail and are bound by the same conditions as Dr. Abdul-Hamid. All three have pleaded not guilty to charges, which include conspiracy to extort, extortion by a public official, abuse of office for personal gain, and money laundering.

In addition, four other individuals—Albert Ankrah, Isaac Mensah, Bright Bediako-Mensah, and Kwaku Aboagye Acquah—have also been released on bail of GH¢2 million each. Their terms require them to present three sureties, with at least one backed by landed property. They too must make biweekly appearances before the Special Prosecutor.

The case has drawn national attention due to its scale and the involvement of senior public officials. Court proceedings are scheduled to resume on August 26, 2025, when substantive hearings are expected to begin.