OSP names five companies in petroleum import irregularities probe

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has carried out a high-profile, court-approved raid on five fuel depots and their associated Bulk Distribution Company (BDC) facilities, signalling a decisive move against suspected petroleum import irregularities in Ghana.

According to the OSP, the coordinated searches form part of an ongoing probe into alleged under-declaration of petroleum imports, deliberate misrepresentation of fuel types during depot transfers, and systemic tax evasion. Early indications from the operation suggest that some BDCs may have colluded with officials from the National Petroleum Authority, the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the National Security Secretariat to facilitate illicit financial transactions. Intermediaries are said to have played a role in moving funds outside legal channels.

The companies currently under scrutiny include Platon Oil and Gas Ltd, Sentuo Oil, Akwaaba Oil, Sahara Oil and Gas Ltd, and Chase Petroleum Ghana Ltd. During the raids, authorities reportedly seized critical documents and electronic records, and several individuals described as “persons of interest” were taken into custody for questioning.

The OSP has stressed that the investigation remains active, with further updates expected as evidence is analysed.