A dramatic twist has erupted at the Criminal Court Three of the Accra High Court, where the Office of the Special Prosecutor has withdrawn all charges against two individuals in the high-profile alleged extortion case tied to former National Petroleum Authority boss Mustapha Abdul-Hamid.
The fourth and fifth accused persons—Albert Ankrah and Isaac Mensah—have now been transformed from defendants into key prosecution witnesses after striking a deal to testify for the state.
Prosecutors revealed that both men, through their legal representatives, voluntarily reached out to the OSP, signaling their willingness to cooperate fully with investigators and provide crucial testimony in court. This move triggered the immediate withdrawal of all charges against them.
The case, which has gripped public attention, revolves around a sweeping alleged extortion operation involving figures linked to the NPA. Presiding judge, Justice Francis Apangar Achibonga, acknowledged the prosecution’s request, as the court now braces to assess the impact of the newly secured witnesses on the trial.
Meanwhile, the central figure, Dr. Abdul-Hamid, remains before the court, firmly contesting all allegations. He appeared composed during proceedings as arguments unfolded.
Moments after the announcement, the two former accused persons exited the courtroom visibly relieved—an emotional scene that underscored the sudden shift in the case.
Dr. Abdul-Hamid is being tried alongside nine others, including senior NPA officials and affiliated companies, facing a staggering 54 criminal counts—ranging from extortion and abuse of public office to money laundering.
According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly orchestrated a scheme between December 2022 and December 2024 to unlawfully extract over GH¢291 million and US$332,000 from bulk oil transporters and oil marketing firms, despite lacking any legal mandate.
Among those still facing charges are Jacob Kwamina Amuah, Wendy Newman, Bright Bediako-Mensah, and Kwaku Aboagye Acquah.
With insiders now turning witnesses, the case has entered a critical new phase—one that could significantly reshape the outcome of this high-stakes trial.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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