OSP arrests GRA’s acting Head of Legal over alleged corruption in SML Revenue Assurance deal

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has arrested Freeman Sarbah, the Acting Head of Legal Affairs at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), in connection with alleged corruption and obstruction of justice linked to the controversial GRA–Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) revenue assurance contract.

In a statement released on Monday, November 3, the OSP confirmed that Mr. Sarbah is being investigated for suspected corruption and corruption-related offences, as well as attempts to obstruct justice in relation to the ongoing probe into the GRA–SML agreement.

The SML contract, which sought to provide revenue assurance services in the petroleum downstream sector and other areas, has faced intense public criticism amid allegations of inflated costs, procurement irregularities, and questionable legal validity.

Following widespread scrutiny, the OSP initiated a comprehensive investigation into the contract, focusing on potential breaches of procurement laws, conflicts of interest, and abuse of office.

The ongoing probe has since expanded to include senior figures from both the GRA and the Ministry of Finance, with the OSP indicating that formal charges will be filed by the end of November 2025.

Those expected to be prosecuted include:

Ken Ofori-Atta, former Minister of Finance

Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, former Commissioner-General of GRA

Emmanuel Kofi Nti, former Commissioner-General of GRA

Other senior GRA officials and former Finance Ministry advisors

According to the OSP, preliminary findings point to systemic corruption, abuse of office, and procurement violations in the award and implementation of the SML contracts.

The office reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of public resources, emphasizing that the rule of law will be upheld without fear or favour.