Govt to deport 3 Indians, prosecute 3 others under new gold trade law

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has announced the deportation of three Indian nationals. They are also prosecuting three other foreign nationals. This action follows the enforcement of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140). The law aims to regulate gold trade and curb illegal smuggling.

At a press briefing on May 14, spokesperson Prince Minkah explained the situation. The six suspects were arrested in separate operations in Ashanti Region and Anyinam. Their fate depended on when they were arrested relative to the April 30 enforcement date.

The three Indian nationals were arrested before the law took effect. They will be repatriated to India since their actions predated the new law. Minkah clarified that they will not face prosecution for their actions.

In contrast, the three other suspects were arrested after April 30. They will face prosecution under the new legal framework. These individuals had gold counting machines and large sums of U.S. dollars, which have been confiscated as evidence.

Minkah warned that foreigners caught trading gold illegally will face legal consequences. He emphasized that only GoldBod can trade gold locally under this new law.

Act 1140 was passed earlier this year and included a transition period for foreign operators. This grace period ended on April 30. Minkah stated that the law aims to restore integrity to Ghana’s gold sector and benefit Ghanaians from mineral wealth.

Going forward, GoldBod plans to increase surveillance and work closely with national security agencies for compliance. “The rules are clear,” Minkah said, stressing that foreigners cannot operate in local gold trade anymore. There will be no excuses moving forward.