GoldBod nabs 10 Chinese nationals in major gold smuggling bust at Asankragwa

Ten Chinese nationals were arrested in Ghana for allegedly smuggling gold, according to recent reports. The suspects, identified as Wu Cheng Wei, Tang Da Tien, Wang Chun Ling, Wei Dong, Li Fu Shou, Wei Sheng Xin, He Shi Long, Li Ren Neng, Fang Zhun Sheng, and Zheng Xi Chuang, were denied bail by the Accra Circuit Court Nine.

Key Details of the Arrest:

- Seized Items: 1.3 kilograms of gold worth approximately GHS 1.4 million ($200,000), GHS 1.3 million in cash, 12 pump-action guns, and casino cards.

- Charges: Conspiring to smuggle gold, trading in gold without authority, hoarding gold, tax evasion, money laundering, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

- Investigation: The Ghana Gold Board Taskforce received intelligence about the group's activities and conducted a sting operation in Asankragua, Western Region.

- Government Stance: The GoldBod CEO, Sammy Gyamfi, emphasized that foreigners engaging in local gold trading without authorization will face prosecution and potential prison sentences of 15-20 years

The operation is part of Ghana's efforts to crack down on illegal gold trading and protect its mineral resources. The government has been working to strengthen regulations and enforcement, including the GoldBod Act 2025, which mandates nationwide licensing for all gold trading activities