American, Moroccan and Ghanaian Citizens Apprehended for Alleged Unlawful Gold Acquisition

The GoldBod Taskforce has apprehended two foreign nationals and four Ghanaians for allegedly attempting to buy and assay approximately 2.1 kilograms of gold, valued at GHS 2.2 million, without the required license.

The suspects include American citizen Smart Philander, Moroccan national Nina Elfseky, and four Ghanaian accomplices: Nana Yaw Sarpong Boateng, Sowa Elisha, Evans Arhin, and Arnold Otutey.

The arrests occurred at the SSNIT Emporium, near Marina Mall in Accra, after weeks of surveillance and intelligence operations by the Taskforce.

Additionally, the Taskforce discovered gold refining equipment in the possession of the American suspect, confirming their intent to refine gold illegally within Ghana’s jurisdiction.

Arraignment

The suspects have since been arraigned before Court in Accra. They are facing multiple counts, including Conspiracy to engage in gold trading without a licence, Engaging in gold trading and assaying without a licence, and Attempting to refine gold illegally, contrary to Sections 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and 26(1) of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

Commitment

The Goldbod said the arrests underscore its unwavering commitment to enforcing the laws governing the gold trade and marketing industry, and to ensuring that only licensed entities operate within the legal framework.

“The Gold Board reminds the public — both local and foreign — that any form of gold trading, assaying, or refining without a licence from the Ghana Gold Board is illegal and punishable by law.”