The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has issued its semi-annual report for the year 2023.

The report indicates that the office has concluded investigations into three significant cases, with four others currently undergoing prosecution.

Dated June 30, 2023, the report further states that the OSP has initiated investigations into 150 fresh cases related to corruption.

This signifies the office's continued efforts in tackling corruption and promoting accountability within the country.

“The Office is also investigating one hundred and fifty (150) other cases at various levels of consideration.

These would be publicised if the Special Prosecutor determines that they are within the mandate of the Office and that they should be moved past the preliminary investigation stage.

This is a policy intended to protect the privacy of individuals and the business operations of institutions and companies, and to avoidunnecessary stigmatization,” the OSP added in its report.

Among the cases concluded by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) are those involving the Secretary to the former Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Charles Bissue, the attempted bribery of some NPP Members of Parliament by a wealthy businessman, and suspected corruption related to the procurement and contract award to Turfsport Ghana Limited by the Gaming Commission of Ghana.

Charles Bissue's case emerged from an investigative documentary titled "Galamsey Fraud" produced by Tiger Eye PI, which brought attention to his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities.

These cases highlight the OSP's commitment to investigating and addressing corruption and related offenses in Ghana, aiming to ensure transparency, accountability, and the fair application of justice.

On his case the OSP in its report said, “Charles Bissue: The Office has concluded investigation into allegations of the use of public office for profit against Charles Bissue, during his tenure as Secretary to the erstwhile Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), arising from an investigative documentary titled Galamsey Fraud”.

On the allegations of an attempt to bribe members of Parliament by a wealthy businessman the OSP said, “The Office has concluded investigation into allegations of an attempt by an unnamed and wealthy businessman to bribe some members of the majority caucus of Parliament. The Office expresses its gratitude to the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament and his staff for their cooperation and assistance during the investigation”.

The final case involves allegations of procurement breaches by officials of the Gaming Commission of Ghana. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has been investigating these claims, which pertain to potential misconduct in the procurement processes carried out by the Gaming Commission.

The OSP's involvement in this case underscores its mandate to tackle corruption and malpractices within various government institutions. By thoroughly investigating these allegations, the OSP aims to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in the operations of the Gaming Commission of Ghana.

“The Office has concluded investigation into suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in respect of the procurement and the award of a contract to Turfsport Ghana Limited by the Gaming Commission of Ghana,” OSP said in the report.

The Special Prosecutor emphasized that directives and further actions regarding the aforementioned cases will be issued in due course. This indicates that the Office is actively working on processing and addressing the matters at hand.

Additionally, the Office of the Special Prosecutor highlighted four ongoing cases in its report. These cases are currently being investigated and will be subject to appropriate action based on the findings and evidence gathered during the investigations. The Office remains committed to pursuing these cases and ensuring that justice is served.

“There has not been any convictions or acquittals in respect of the cases pending before the criminal courts during the period under review. Four (4) criminal cases are being tried before the courts”.

The OSP said it welcomes collaboration and referrals on suspected corruption and corruption related offences from all stakeholders particularly law enforcement agencies.