AG Slams 11 Charges on Ex-NSB Boss Kwabena Adu-Boahene & Family Member, Company, and Banker

Alleged Misappropriation of Funds by Former National Signals Bureau Director-General

Background of the Case

According to Dr Ayine, Adu-Boahene allegedly transferred GH¢49 million (approximately $7 million) from the NSB’s account to his personal account. The funds were meant for a cybersecurity defence system. Investigations revealed suspicious transactions, including the transfer of GH¢27,100,000 to a private account.

Charges Against the Accused

The charges against Adu-Boahene and the other accused persons include:

1. Stealing, contrary to Section 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29)
2. Conspiracy to steal, contrary to Sections 23(1) and 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960
3. Defrauding by false pretences, contrary to Section 131(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29)
4. Wilfully causing financial loss to the state, contrary to Section 179A(3)(a) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29)
5. Using public office for profit, contrary to Section 179C(a) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29)

Investigation and Evidence

The Attorney General revealed that Adu-Boahene signed a contract with an Israeli company, RLC Holdings Limited, for the purchase of a cyber defence system software at a price of $7 million. However, just days after signing the agreement, Adu-Boahene initiated a suspicious transaction, transferring GH¢27,100,000 from the NSB account to a private account.

Investigations further uncovered that Adu-Boahene allegedly funnelled the funds not only into his personal account but also into accounts belonging to his wife. The accused persons include Adu-Boahene’s wife, Angela Adjei Boateng; his company, Advantage Solutions Limited; and banker Mildred Donkor.

The case against Kwabena Adu-Boahene and the other accused persons highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in public office. The alleged misappropriation of funds meant for a cybersecurity defence system is a serious offence that undermines the country’s efforts to protect its national security.

The Attorney General’s office has taken swift action to investigate and prosecute the accused persons. The outcome of the case will be closely watched, and it remains to be seen how the accused persons will respond to the charges.

Implications of the Case

The case has significant implications for public officeholders and individuals entrusted with managing public funds. It highlights the need for strict adherence to financial regulations and protocols to prevent the misappropriation of funds.

The case also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in government contracting and procurement processes. The alleged corrupt practices in this case are a reminder of the need for robust mechanisms to prevent and detect corruption.

Court Proceedings

The case is currently before the High Court in Accra. The accused persons will have the opportunity to defend themselves against the charges. The court will determine the guilt or innocence of the accused persons based on the evidence presented.

The outcome of the case will have significant implications for the accused persons and for the country’s efforts to combat corruption and promote accountability in public office.