American, Moroccan and Ghanaians Arrested over Alleged Illegal Gold Buying

Two foreigners and four Ghanaians are in the grips of the GoldBod Taskforce after they allegedly attempted to buy and assay about 2.1 kilograms of gold valued at approximately GHS 2.2 million, without the requisite licence.

The suspects include an American citizen identified as Smart Philander, a Moroccan national identified as Nina Elfseky, and four Ghanaian accomplices, namely Nana Yaw Sarpong Boateng, Sowa Elisha, Evans Arhin, and Arnold Otutey.

According to the Goldbod, the arrests took place at the SSNIT Emporium, near Marina Mall in Accra, after weeks of surveillance and intelligence operations by the Taskforce.

“During the operation, the Taskforce also discovered gold refining equipment in the possession of the American suspect, confirming their intent to refine gold illegally within Ghana’s jurisdiction.”

Arraignment
The suspects have since been arraigned before Court in Accra.

They are facing multiple counts, including Conspiracy to engage in gold trading without a licence, Engaging in gold trading and assaying without a licence, and Attempting to refine gold illegally, contrary to Sections 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and 26(1) of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

Commitment
The Goldbod said the arrests underscore its unwavering commitment to enforcing the laws governing the gold trade and marketing industry, and to ensuring that only licensed entities operate within the legal framework.

“The Gold Board reminds the public — both local and foreign — that any form of gold trading, assaying, or refining without a licence from the Ghana Gold Board is illegal and punishable by law.”

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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