By Our Reporter
In what has been described as the most significant gold smuggling bust in Ghana’s history, the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has cracked a sophisticated syndicate, leading to the arrest and prosecution of key suspects while announcing a massive bounty on others still at large.
The operation, which uncovered the illegal trade of over 100 kilograms of gold valued at more than GH¢100 million in just two months, was spearheaded by GoldBod and its task force.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday at GoldBod’s head office in Accra, CEO Sammy Gyamfi Esq. detailed the extensive investigation that brought down the criminal enterprise. The syndicate, allegedly masterminded by Rafmoh Gold Ltd., operated in concert with NK Bernak Enterprise, a licensed gold buyer in Tarkwa.
The breakthrough came from a tip-off by a patriotic Ghanaian citizen. This led to the arrest of Abdul Razak Seidu at the Winneba junction on August 27, 2025. He was caught with 9.2 kilograms of gold, worth approximately GH¢10.2 million.
This initial arrest unraveled a far-reaching network. Further investigations led to the apprehension of Bernard Nkrumah of NK Bernak Enterprise and Ibrahim Aremeyaw, a key associate of Rafmoh Gold Ltd.
According to GoldBod, the criminal chain was clear: NK Bernak Enterprise illegally purchased the gold, which was then smuggled by Rafmoh Gold Ltd. through its officers and couriers. This elaborate scheme has since been exposed, with all three suspects arraigned before the High Court on charges including facilitating and smuggling gold.
Though the High Court granted the suspects bail after two weeks in NIB custody, they have yet to meet the bail conditions.
Fugitives on the Run
In a dramatic turn, GoldBod and the Ghana Police Service are now in hot pursuit of four other suspects who remain at large. Arrest warrants have been secured for Rafeeq Mohammed Nandoli a.k.a. Salam, Muhammed Afsah Puthalan, Abdul Karim, and Sadique Abubakar.
To fast-track their capture, GoldBod has announced a substantial reward of GH¢1 million for information leading to the arrest of each of the fugitives. The public is urged to report any useful information to the nearest police station or the GoldBod head office.
Businesses Shut Down
As part of the crackdown, GoldBod has suspended the license of NK Bernak Enterprise and shut down its Tarkwa offices. Additionally, the business premises of Rafmoh Jewellery at Palace Mall in Accra have been closed due to its connection to the smuggling operation.
Mr. Gyamfi concluded the briefing with a stern warning, reiterating GoldBod’s unwavering commitment to restoring integrity to Ghana’s gold trade. He vowed to prosecute anyone engaged in illegal gold trading, hoarding, or smuggling, promising to do so “without fear or favour.”
Do you think the bounties will be enough to bring the fugitives to justice? Share your thoughts with us.