In a significant breakthrough in the scandal surrounding missing containers belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), National Security operatives have arrested 13 individuals, including 12 Chinese nationals and one Ghanaian. The arrests were made during a targeted operation on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in Shai Hills.
The detained suspects are allegedly linked to the illegal processing of stolen electrical cables traced to two aluminum smelting companies in the area. Investigators discovered that cables from the missing ECG containers were being melted into aluminum bars for export at a smelter owned by the Chinese nationals, situated opposite the Shai Hills Game Reserve.
Security agencies have launched a manhunt for another key suspect, a Chinese national believed to be connected to the smuggling network, who is currently at large. Authorities have assured the public of their commitment to apprehending all those involved.
40 Containers Retrieved
Energy Minister John Jinapor confirmed that 40 of the missing containers have been recovered. The containers were located in a warehouse in Kpone owned by an Indian national, who has also been arrested. The Indian suspect claims he legally purchased the containers last year, but investigations are ongoing to verify his claims.
“The information I received this morning indicates that 40 containers have been traced to a warehouse in Kpone belonging to an Indian national. These containers have been confiscated and moved to a secured location,” Minister Jinapor
Background and Public Outrage
The ECG container scandal has ignited widespread national outrage after an investigative committee, led by Prof. Innocent Senyo Acquah revealed alarming discrepancies in ECG’s records. While ECG documents indicated that 2,491 containers remained uncleared at Tema Port, an independent audit found only 1,134 containers accounted for—leaving 1,347 missing.
The revelation has sparked concerns about systemic corruption and the lack of accountability in the management of public resources.
Government’s Assurance
Authorities have pledged to recover all the missing containers and dismantle the syndicate responsible for the theft and illegal processing of the cables. Investigators believe the syndicate operates a well-coordinated network involving smuggling, illegal sales, and export activities.
“This operation demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding public assets. We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that all perpetrators are brought to justice,” a National Security spokesperson stated.
As investigations continue, the government has urged the public to remain calm and report any suspicious activities related to the scandal. The case has also reignited calls for stricter oversight of public sector operations and increased transparency at the nation’s ports.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
