Former GPHA boss questions ECG missing containers scandal

Richard Anamoo, the former Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has raised concerns about missing containers. He questioned how over 1,300 containers belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) could go missing. He stated that such an event would be unusual without internal collusion.

In an interview on JoyNews' The Probe on March 30, Mr. Anamoo explained GPHA's procedures for handling goods. Containers cannot leave the port without proper documentation.

He clarified that if containers are missing from the port, GPHA is responsible. However, if they were cleared with all necessary documents, responsibility shifts elsewhere.

Mr. Anamoo emphasized two key requirements for port clearance: a bill of lading and payment of all duties and charges. This includes GPHA handling fees and rent fees.

Reports indicate that 47 containers were cleared without paying duties. This has led to allegations of collusion among some ECG officials, GPHA, or customs officials.

In response to this revelation, Mr. Anamoo stated that accountability lies with internal personnel at GPHA and customs if containers were cleared without duty.

He remarked that it would be strange for goods to leave the port without duty being paid. He insisted that individuals within GPHA and Customs should be questioned in such cases.

Mr. Anamoo noted that customs officers at exit gates also share responsibility for ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

He pointed out that customs officers are present at exit gates to check shipments leaving the port. If evidence shows goods left without proper clearance, both GPHA and customs must be involved in addressing the issue.