The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has detained Isaac Crentsil, former Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), in connection with ongoing investigations into the controversial contract awarded to Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).
Sources familiar with the matter confirmed that Mr Crentsil was picked up earlier this week for questioning regarding his role in the award and operationalisation of the SML deal, which has been under intense public scrutiny.
The NIB’s action follows growing concerns over possible irregularities and suspected collusion by top officials in designing and implementing the revenue assurance contract, reportedly worth millions of Ghana cedis. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and other anti-corruption agencies are also believed to be monitoring the case closely.
Mr Crentsil, who served as Commissioner of Customs from 2015 to 2019, is alleged to have played a key role during the initial stages of the SML engagement.
It remains unclear whether formal charges have been filed, but sources within the security services indicate that further interrogations are underway and more former and current officials may be invited for questioning.
The SML contract has attracted widespread criticism from civil society organisations, opposition parties and some Members of Parliament, who argue that it lacked transparency and value for money.
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), which has recently issued statements rebutting the company’s claims, has yet to issue an official statement on Mr Crentsil’s detention.
More updates to follow.