SML Scandal Trial Kicks Off: Ofori-Atta and Seven Others Face 78 Corruption Charges
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has commenced its high-profile prosecution of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and seven others in connection with the controversial Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)-Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) deal, with proceedings starting Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Criminal Court 5.
In a post on its official X account, the OSP confirmed: “The trial of Kenneth Ofori-Atta and 7 others expected to start today at Criminal Court 5.”
The accused face a combined 78 counts of corruption and related offenses, stemming from an investigation that uncovered alleged financial irregularities causing significant losses to the state.
Named defendants include:
Ernest Darko Akore, former Chef de Cabinet to Ofori-Atta;
Emmanuel Kofi Nti, ex-Commissioner-General of GRA;
Rev. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, former Commissioner-General of GRA;
Isaac Crenstil, former Customs Commissioner at GRA and SML General Manager;
Kwadwo Damoah, former Customs Commissioner and Jaman South MP;
Evans Adusei, former Deputy Finance Minister;
Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).
Ofori-Atta, currently abroad in the United States citing health issues, will be tried in absentia.
The OSP had pledged to file charges by late November 2025 after a probe launched in October revealed misconduct involving top Ministry of Finance and GRA officials, plus SML affiliates.
Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, at an October 30 press conference, detailed evidence of graft in the SML contract, which involved revenue assurance services.
The OSP is collaborating with international partners to ensure absconding defendants return, while upholding constitutional rights.
