GoldBod Taskforce Cracks Down: 10 Chinese Nationals Arrested in Illegal Gold Trade
Asankragua, Western Region, Ghana – In a significant operation, the GoldBod Taskforce has apprehended 10 Chinese nationals in Asankragua, Western Region, on suspicion of engaging in illegal gold trading. This bust comes just 48 hours after the Ghanaian government imposed a nationwide ban on foreign involvement in the local gold trade.
The arrests were made at a private residence where the individuals were allegedly conducting unauthorized gold transactions. The operation, which was based on solid intelligence, also led to the seizure of 1.3kg of gold, valued at nearly GH₵1.4 million, along with over GH₵1.3 million in cash, a pump-action gun, and a substantial quantity of suspected money-laundering casino cards.
GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi, addressing the media, confirmed that the arrested individuals will not be deported but will instead face full prosecution under Ghanaian law. “We mean business, and this time around, you cannot engage in illegal gold trading and gold smuggling and go scot-free,” he asserted.
Mr. Gyamfi stated that the task force’s swift action serves as a clear warning to illegal operators, especially foreigners, that Ghana is committed to cleaning up its gold industry and enforcing the new directive which prohibits foreign nationals from buying or selling gold in the country. “The grace period is over and we have given countless warnings upon warnings. And so when you are arrested now, there will not be anything like deportation,” he emphasized.
The GoldBod CEO further indicated that he has instructed investigators to build a robust case based on the evidence gathered by the field operatives. He expects the suspects to be arraigned before court tomorrow, where the GoldBod will seek their remand into custody for further investigation. “It is our hope that we will get a favourable outcome,” he added.
This decisive action underscores Ghana’s strengthened resolve to combat illegal gold trading and ensure that its valuable mineral resources primarily benefit the nation.
