OSP Arrests Former GRA Officials Over Controversial SML Contracts

Accra, Ghana – June 23, 2025 — The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has arrested multiple former officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in connection with ongoing investigations into controversial revenue monitoring contracts awarded to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).

The arrests mark a significant escalation in the probe into alleged procurement irregularities and possible corruption linked to multi-million cedi contracts between the GRA and SML.

????️ Background to the Arrests

The OSP has been investigating the GRA-SML contracts following concerns raised by civil society groups and media reports over lack of transparency and possible inflated payments. The contracts, which were aimed at monitoring petroleum downstream revenues and other sectors, have been criticized for bypassing competitive procurement processes.

???? Key Individuals & Charges

While the OSP has yet to release the full list of arrested individuals, sources close to the investigation confirm that former top executives of the GRA’s contracts and procurement units are among those picked up.

The suspects are expected to face charges related to:

• Breach of the Public Procurement Act

• Abuse of office

• Financial loss to the state

• Possible conflict of interest

“We are following the evidence. No one is above accountability,” a senior OSP officer told Top Knowledge Media on condition of anonymity.

???? The SML-GRA Deal Controversy

SML was contracted to monitor and audit fuel deliveries and other revenue streams. Critics argued that the company lacked the capacity for such large-scale monitoring and that its selection process raised red flags.

Previous reports indicated that payments to SML exceeded GH¢1 billion, despite limited verifiable impact on revenue mobilization.

????️ Reactions from Stakeholders

• IMANI Ghana and ASEPA have welcomed the arrests, calling them a bold step toward transparency and justice.

• Former GRA officials have denied wrongdoing and say they acted under directives from higher authorities.

• The Ministry of Finance is also under scrutiny for its role in the approval and implementation of the contracts.

???? What Happens Next?

The arrested officials are expected to be arraigned soon. The OSP has indicated more arrests could follow as it expands its investigation into possible collusion between public servants and private contractors.