The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has presented a cheque for GH¢12.65 million to the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) as a reward for the Commission’s role in the seizure of 17 gold bars from suspected illicit gold traders in 2025.
The amount represents 50 percent of the proceeds from the sale of the confiscated gold and was paid under GoldBod’s reward policy, which seeks to encourage intelligence-led operations and strengthen collaboration between the Board and state security agencies in the fight against illegal gold trading.
Speaking during the presentation, GoldBod Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, said the reward was distributed in accordance with the Board’s approved policy to recognise the contributions of individuals and institutions that made the successful operation possible.
He explained that 10 percent of the proceeds was allocated to the informant whose credible intelligence led to the interception and seizure of the gold. According to him, the Board of Directors also approved an additional 20 percent for the NACOC officers who participated in the operation in recognition of the courage, commitment and risks they undertook while carrying out the assignment.
Mr. Gyamfi added that the remaining 20 percent was awarded to NACOC as an institution for deploying its personnel, expertise and operational resources to ensure the success of the operation.
He noted that GoldBod remains committed to rewarding credible intelligence and recognising the efforts of security agencies in protecting Ghana’s mineral resources from illegal activities.
He stressed that stronger collaboration between state institutions is essential to tackling illicit gold trading and safeguarding the country’s gold industry.
Receiving the cheque on behalf of the Commission, NACOC Director-General, Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, expressed appreciation to GoldBod for honouring its commitment under the reward scheme.
He commended the Board for recognising the sacrifices made by the officers involved in the operation and reaffirmed NACOC’s commitment to deepening its collaboration with GoldBod to combat illegal gold trading and other related offences.
Major General Mantey said the Commission remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at protecting Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring that individuals engaged in illegal gold trading are brought to justice.
GoldBod said the presentation underscores its commitment to promoting responsible gold trade, rewarding credible intelligence and strengthening partnerships with state security agencies to enhance enforcement efforts across the country’s gold sector.
The Board added that it will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to protect Ghana’s gold resources and ensure they contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic development for the benefit of present and future generations.
CREDIT: MAVIS FANTEVI