Accra: Dr Dominic Akurutinga Ayine, the Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Justice, has hinted at plans to file civil charges against those involved in the National Service Authority (NSA) looting scandal. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series Press Conference at the Presidency, the AG stated that discussions with the Auditor-General had led to the disallowance of the sums of money involved in the scandal, which were subsequently surcharged on the public officers involved.
According to Ghana News Agency, the notices of disallowance and surcharge have been issued and served on the implicated public officers. Dr Ayine emphasized that if, after 14 days, the officers fail to show cause why the sums should not be disallowed and surcharged, the money would become a debt owed to the state, prompting civil action to recover the involved sums.
Dr Ayine further elaborated that once a judgment is obtained, it will be executed using civil procedure mechanisms, including the attachment of properties owned by the officers, irrespective of whether these properties were acquired through the proceeds of crime. He also mentioned his intention to formally request confirmation of the notices from the Auditor-General.
The AG's office continues to collaborate with other state institutions to bring charges based on the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) investigative reports from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB). Dr Ayine assured that the ORAL investigations are progressing well, with efforts underway to enhance initial reports to file charges that meet criminal trial standards.