OSP investigates alleged diversion of GH¢25.8m palm oil

The Office of the Special Prosecutor, Ghana (OSP) has commenced investigations into the alleged diversion of fifty (50) twenty-foot containers of palm oil valued at GH¢25.8 million.

In a statement dated February 24, 2026, the Office disclosed that the consignment had been declared as goods in transit to Burkina Faso but was unlawfully redirected into the local market without the payment of applicable duties and taxes.

“The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) is investigating suspected corruption involving the diversion of fifty (50) twenty-foot containers of palm oil valued at GHS25.8 million,” the statement said.

According to the OSP, the alleged diversion scheme resulted in significant financial losses to the state. “The consignment, declared as in transit to Burkina Faso, was unlawfully diverted into the local market without payment of applicable duties and taxes,” the Office noted.

Preliminary findings, the statement revealed, have identified the involvement of some Customs officers, National Security operatives, and clearing agents. “The Office has identified the involvement of some Customs officers, National Security operatives, and clearing agents in a corrupt scheme that resulted in an estimated loss of GHS10.5 million in taxes,” it added.

The anti-corruption body further indicated that the investigation was triggered by targeted intelligence work. “The Office commenced the investigation on the back of an intelligence-led operation conducted in November 2025,” the statement explained.

The OSP stressed that it remains resolute in carrying out its mandate to safeguard public resources and ensure accountability. “As the process continues, the Office remains committed to protecting the public purse and upholding integrity,” the statement emphasised.

While no arrests or prosecutions have yet been announced, the case is expected to draw public attention given the scale of the alleged diversion and the number of officials implicated. The investigation forms part of ongoing efforts by the OSP to clamp down on corruption and strengthen revenue protection mechanisms within Ghana’s public institutions.