The High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice Dr. Ernest Owusu-Dapaa, has adjourned the ongoing criminal case involving Nana Appiah Mensah, popularly known as NAM1, to July 31, 2025, to allow the embattled Menzgold CEO to open his defense.
During proceedings on Thursday, July 24, NAM1 formally notified the court through a letter submitted by his legal counsel, Kwame Akuffo Boafo, that he would not be submitting witness statements in his defense. Instead, the accused intends to subpoena seven state institutions to testify on his behalf.
The institutions listed for subpoena include the Ghana Police Service, Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Bank of Ghana, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Minerals Commission, Agricultural Development Bank, and Zenith Bank. These entities, NAM1 believes, hold vital information that could support his case.
NAM1, along with two of his companies—Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult—is facing 35 criminal charges. The charges include operating a deposit-taking business without a license, selling gold without authorization, defrauding by false pretenses, inducement to invest, money laundering, and fraudulent breach of trust.
His lawyer, who was once again absent from court due to health issues, raised concerns over prior court directives, describing them in the letter as “worrying and prejudicial.”
The defense team emphasized the need for additional time to prepare adequately, especially in light of the continued absence of lead counsel.
Addressing the court personally, NAM1 reiterated his commitment to defending himself and proving his innocence. He highlighted the toll the prolonged legal battle has taken on him, noting that he has endured nearly seven years of investigations, public scrutiny, and legal proceedings.
In response, Senior State Attorney Watkins Adamah, representing the prosecution, confirmed that the letter from NAM1’s legal team clearly stated they would not be submitting witness statements.
He indicated that the defense intends to rely on oral evidence and testimonies from the subpoenaed institutions.
Mr. Adamah further noted that the defense’s approach should not derail the timeline set by the court, especially given the judicial calendar.
He emphasized that the prosecution remains ready to proceed and expects the defense to open their case as scheduled.
