A former senior security official in Ghana has been arrested over allegations of misappropriating millions of dollars from a cybersecurity contract, authorities announced on Monday. The arrest is part of President John Mahama’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign aimed at recovering public funds misused during the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Kwabena Adu-Boahene, who previously served as the Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), is accused of diverting funds from a $7 million contract intended to enhance Ghana’s cybersecurity framework. Officials say the government’s crackdown extends to other former high-ranking officials, including ex-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, as part of efforts to restore public trust in governance.
Cybersecurity Funds Allegedly Redirected to Private Accounts
Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Dominic Ayine stated that Adu-Boahene was taken into custody over allegations of siphoning money from a cybersecurity contract awarded in January 2020 to Israeli firm RLC Holdings Limited. The contract was designed to strengthen Ghana’s defenses against cyber threats and digital espionage.
However, investigations by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) revealed that significant portions of the funds were instead funneled into private accounts linked to Adu-Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei-Boateng. Authorities allege that shortly after the contract was signed, the former NSB chief transferred over 27 million Ghanaian cedis ($1.7 million) from the bureau’s accounts into his private business. Official records show the amount was purportedly allocated for cybersecurity software, but investigators claim it was misappropriated.
Assets Acquired With Diverted Funds
Officials say the couple used additional misappropriated funds to purchase multiple properties both in Ghana and abroad. They remain in custody as authorities widen the investigation to uncover other individuals who may have been involved.
Beyond this case, the government is also scrutinizing financial misconduct in other institutions. Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is under investigation for alleged irregularities in government bond issuance and debt management. Additionally, authorities are reviewing a large-scale payroll fraud scandal at the National Service Secretariat, where over 81,000 fictitious names were allegedly used to siphon funds from state coffers.
Government Pledges Tougher Stance on Corruption
“The days of impunity are over,” Ayine declared, emphasizing the government’s commitment to prosecuting those responsible for financial mismanagement. Legal proceedings are expected to move swiftly as the administration intensifies its anti-corruption measures.
The crackdown comes as Ghana works to reassure international investors and financial institutions amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy. The government is currently in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund for financial assistance, with governance reforms identified as a key requirement.