In a significant enforcement operation, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has officially handed over 17 gold bars, valued at approximately US $1.7 million, to the government‑established Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) during a ceremony held at the Ministry of the Interior in the capital, Accra.
The gold was seized by NACOC officers from its Upper East Regional Command, following the arrest of two Burkinabe nationals at the Paga Border Post, who had attempted to smuggle the bullion out of Ghana. Both individuals are now facing charges for transportation and illegal dealing in gold.
At the handover event, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed‑Mubarak, Ghana’s Minister for the Interior, reaffirmed his Ministry’s commitment to supporting GoldBod in safeguarding the country’s mineral resources. He emphasised that the collaboration with regulatory agencies remains a priority in maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s gold sector.
Mr Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, extended his gratitude to the Director‑General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, for the smooth and secure transfer. He urged continued co‑operation among security agencies to enhance operational effectiveness and protect Ghana’s national wealth.
Present at the ceremony were high‑ranking officials including Mrs Doreen Annan, Chief Director at the Ministry of the Interior, Brigadier General Mantey, and other senior representatives from both NACOC and GoldBod.
KAB