ECG missing containers scandal: The main development so far

**ECG Missing Containers Scandal: Key Developments**

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is facing a scandal. Over 1,300 containers have gone missing from Tema port. Energy Minister John Jinapor announced this on March 26.

An investigative report revealed that these containers contained essential items. They included cables and poles needed for power distribution. ECG initially claimed to have 2,491 uncleared containers at the port.

During this time, ECG awarded contracts to two firms for clearing the containers. However, one firm lacked the necessary license, raising procurement concerns.

**Arrests Made in Connection with the Scandal**

After the news broke, the government acted quickly. Authorities traced 40 of the missing containers to a warehouse in Kpone. This warehouse is owned by an Indian national.

National Security made 14 arrests linked to two aluminium smelting companies in Shai Hills. Evidence suggested connections between these companies and the missing containers.

On March 28, Jinapor visited Dangfang Company Ltd and Ponlok Manufacturing Company Ltd. Burnt pellets marked with Energy Ministry labels were found at Ponlok.

Further investigations led to more discoveries at Atlas Dry Port. Some cables were hidden under tyre rims to avoid detection.

On April 2, police seized a truck loaded with electrical cables in Gomoa Central District. Two men associated with the truck were arrested.

**Past Leadership's Response**

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin spoke about past ECG leadership's involvement. He claimed officials connived in selling missing container cables at the port.

In Parliament on March 28, he questioned how containers could vanish despite strict processes at ports. He suggested collusion with customs officials was involved in their disappearance.

Former ECG Managing Director Dubik Mahama has denied any wrongdoing. He has requested clear timelines regarding past management's involvement.

Mahama suggested that containers might have been misplaced or auctioned due to delays in clearance by Ghana Revenue Authority.

**Ongoing Investigations**

On April 2, Jinapor formally asked the Attorney General to lead an investigation into this matter. He also requested that the National Investigation Bureau look into it as well.