The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has launched an investigation into an alleged corruption and tax evasion scheme involving the diversion of fifty 20-foot containers of palm oil, valued at GH₵25.8 million, into the local Ghanaian market.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the OSP revealed that the consignment was originally declared as goods in transit destined for Burkina Faso. However, it was unlawfully diverted and sold locally without the payment of applicable import duties and taxes.
Preliminary findings from the probe indicate the possible involvement of some Customs officers from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), National Security operatives, and clearing agents in the suspected scheme.
The OSP estimates that the diversion resulted in a revenue loss of approximately GH₵10.5 million to the state.
The investigation is intelligence-led and follows an operation conducted in November 2025, which uncovered irregularities in the handling and clearance processes for the shipment.
The OSP reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting public funds, ensuring accountability in the management of imports and transit goods, and upholding integrity in public administration as the probe continues.
In a related development, on February 18, 2026, the Customs Division of the GRA intercepted 18 articulated trucks declared for transit to Niger, suspected of being part of a wider diversion operation.
Post-interception inspections revealed significant discrepancies in the declared unit values, tariff classifications, and weights of the goods. This increased the estimated revenue exposure from an initial GH₵2.6 million to over GH₵85 million.
The trucks were reportedly moving without the mandatory customs human escort, constituting a major violation of established transit procedures.
The OSP emphasised that its ongoing efforts aim to safeguard the public purse and combat corruption in trade and revenue administration. Investigations into both matters remain active.
