Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akurutinga Ayine, has officially commenced investigations into the cases highlighted in the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) report, following a directive from President John Dramani Mahama.
The ORAL report, submitted on Monday to President Mahama by its Chairman, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, detailed widespread allegations of financial misappropriation and corruption.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the committee received a total of 2,417 complaints, comprising 1,493 toll-free calls and 924 emails, all of which have been recorded and preserved for verification.
“This overwhelming response is proof of the necessity and timeliness of President Mahama’s intervention,” Mr. Ablakwa stated.
The report identified 36 high-profile cases that, if successfully prosecuted, could result in the recovery of approximately $20.49 billion for the state. Among the cases cited were alleged financial irregularities related to the National Cathedral project, the Power Distribution Services (PDS) deal, Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Saltpond decommissioning.
Additionally, the ORAL committee revealed that it had prevented the demolition of 50 government-owned bungalows, safeguarding public assets from improper disposal.
The investigative team behind ORAL includes former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo, retired Commissioner of Police Nathaniel Kofi Boakye, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu, and investigative journalist Raymond Archer.
President Mahama’s Commitment to Anti-Corruption
President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to combating corruption and ensuring accountability in public office.
“To those who think they can defraud the state and escape justice, let this serve as a strong warning,” the President declared. “Ghana is no longer a safe haven for corruption.”
He called on citizens, civil society organizations, and the media to join in the fight for transparency and integrity, emphasizing that national progress depends on responsible governance and financial accountability.
Receiving the report, President Mahama praised the ORAL Team for their commitment, noting that they had carried out their duties without compensation or expectation of personal gain.
“This initiative represents an unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, financial malfeasance, and the misappropriation of public resources,” he said.
The Attorney-General’s office is expected to act swiftly on the findings, summoning individuals and organizations named in the report for further investigations and potential prosecution.
As Ghana moves forward in its anti-corruption efforts, the government has assured the public that all cases will be handled transparently, with a firm commitment to recovering lost state resources and ensuring justice.
