In a significant development in Ghana’s fight against illegal gold trade and smuggling, six individuals have been brought before Circuit Court 10 in Accra to face charges related to unlawful gold operations. The case, which has drawn considerable attention, underscores Ghana’s commitment to enforcing its gold trade regulations and safeguarding the integrity of its mineral resources.
The accused individuals—Smart Philander (A1), Nina Elfseky (A2), Nana Yaw Sarpong Boateng (A3), Sowa Elisha (A4), Evans Arhin (A5), and Anold Otutey (A6)—were arraigned on Monday, September 29, 2025. They face four counts, including conspiracy to commit a crime, engaging in gold trade without a license, conspiracy to smuggle gold, and unauthorized assaying of gold. All six individuals pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Bail Conditions and Adjournment
Presiding over the case, Her Honour Evelyn Asamoah granted bail to each of the accused in the sum of GH¢900,000 with two sureties. The sureties must be Ghanaian citizens residing within the jurisdiction of the court. The case has been adjourned to October 27, 2025, for further proceedings.
The Allegations
Chief Inspector Simon Nyaho Esq., representing the prosecution, presented the facts of the case during the proceedings. According to the prosecution, the complainants are officers from the Ghana Gold Board Taskforce, who have been investigating the accused for an extended period. Intelligence gathered by the taskforce suggested that the group was part of a larger gold smuggling syndicate operating within Ghana.
Smart Philander, an American citizen residing temporarily in Ghana with his Moroccan wife, Nina Elfseky, is alleged to have been soliciting gold from individuals for illegal purchase and export. The remaining four accused are Ghanaian nationals residing in Accra.
On September 25, 2025, undercover officers from the Ghana Gold Board Taskforce reportedly engaged Philander in a covert operation. During this operation, Philander allegedly expressed interest in purchasing five kilograms of gold for illegal export. The transaction was arranged at his office located at SSNIT Emporium near Marina Mall, Airport.
During the meeting, Philander is said to have assayed the gold using personal equipment before making payment to an undercover officer posing as a seller. Following the transaction, all six suspects were arrested on-site by taskforce officers.
Ongoing Investigations
The Ghana Gold Board has emphasized that investigations into this case are still ongoing. The taskforce has reiterated its commitment to clamping down on illegal gold operations and enforcing the provisions of the Gold Board Act. It has issued a stern warning to violators of the law that they will face severe consequences.
Implications for Ghana’s Gold Industry
This case highlights the challenges faced by Ghana in regulating its gold industry and combating illegal activities that threaten its economy and reputation as a leading gold producer. The Ghana Gold Board’s proactive measures reflect the country’s dedication to preserving its mineral wealth and ensuring compliance with legal frameworks.
As the case progresses, it will serve as a critical test of Ghana’s judicial system and its ability to address crimes related to precious minerals effectively. The outcome of this trial will likely send a strong message to those involved in illegal gold operations, reinforcing Ghana’s zero-tolerance stance on such activities.
Stay tuned for updates as Circuit Court 10 reconvenes on October 27, 2025, to continue hearing this landmark case.
-Thechroniclenewspaper
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
