OSP declares Ex-Finance Ministry Advisor wanted over SML corruption probe
Special Prosecutor targets former Technical Advisor Ernest Darko Akore
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has declared Ernest Darko Akore, a former Technical Advisor (Chef de Cabinet) at the Ministry of Finance, a wanted person in connection with an ongoing corruption investigation involving the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML).
Key figure in controversial revenue assurance deal
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the OSP, led by Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, announced that Mr. Akore is being pursued over suspected corruption-related offences linked to the Revenue Assurance Contract between the GRA and SML. The contract has faced scrutiny over transparency, accountability, and value-for-money concerns.
Dual citizenship and international manhunt
Mr. Akore, aged 67, is believed to be a dual Ghanaian-American national. According to records, he has held an American passport in past years. Investigators suspect he may currently be residing in the United States, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, or South Africa.
The OSP has issued an international alert and is actively collaborating with foreign law enforcement partners to trace and apprehend the former advisor.
High Court issues arrest warrant
The High Court’s Criminal Division has issued an arrest warrant for Mr. Akore under the case title Republic v. Ernest D. Akore. The warrant empowers law enforcement to detain him upon sight, pending further legal proceedings.
Public urged to assist with information
In its appeal to the public, the OSP has provided two dedicated WhatsApp hotlines — 0554494499 and 0554484488 — to receive credible information or tips about Mr. Akore’s location. Citizens are urged to cooperate with authorities to ensure accountability and justice.
Background on the SML scandal
The Revenue Assurance Contract between the GRA and SML was intended to improve revenue monitoring in the petroleum downstream sector. However, it has become the subject of significant controversy amid allegations of procurement breaches, inflated costs, and improper political influence.
Mr. Akore, who served as a key technical advisor during the contract’s implementation, has emerged as a person of interest in the probe, prompting the OSP to take swift action to prevent evasion of justice.
