Energy Ministry Seeks Attorney General’s Probe and Possible Legal Action Over ECG’s Missing Containers

The Minister of Energy, John Jinapor, has disclosed that his ministry is intensifying efforts to locate the missing containers belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and to hold those responsible accountable. The minister revealed that the Energy Ministry has formally requested the Attorney General’s office to conduct further investigations and explore the possibility of legal action against individuals implicated in the disappearance of these containers.

This development comes in response to the disappearance of over 1,300 ECG containers from the Tema Port, a situation that has raised serious concerns about accountability and security within the country’s energy sector. The missing containers, reportedly containing vital electrical equipment and infrastructure components intended to improve the nation’s power distribution system, have led to widespread public outcry and calls for urgent action to resolve the matter.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, April 2, Minister Jinapor stated, “We have officially written to the Attorney General to conduct a thorough investigation, with the aim of prosecuting those found culpable. This matter is of national importance, and we will ensure that justice is served.” The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing that no stone will be left unturned in the pursuit of the truth.

As part of broader investigative measures, the minister also revealed that the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has been tasked with conducting a forensic probe to trace the missing containers and establish responsibility for their disappearance. This effort is aimed at uncovering the full extent of the issue and ensuring that such incidents do not recur in the future. He noted that the investigation would involve a detailed review of port records, customs documentation, and possible collusion between port officials and external actors.

To mitigate further losses and prevent additional security lapses, Minister Jinapor noted that he has personally reached out to the National Security Secretariat, seeking their intervention in safeguarding the remaining containers. This move is intended to facilitate a proper reconciliation process, ensuring that any recoverable assets are accounted for and put to good use. He added that an inter-agency task force comprising representatives from the Energy Ministry, ECG, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and security agencies has been established to oversee the recovery efforts.

“Some containers are still scattered in various locations, and it is crucial that we secure them to prevent further losses. We are committed to pursuing the whereabouts of those that remain unaccounted for while ensuring that the recovered ones serve their intended purpose,” he emphasized. He further stated that enhanced security measures, including the use of surveillance technology and stricter port monitoring, would be implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Authorities have already made some progress in the case, with several of the missing containers being located and a number of arrests made. Those apprehended include both Ghanaian and Chinese nationals, who are suspected to have played roles in the disappearance of the containers. The minister assured the public that further arrests would follow as investigations continue and that any public officials found complicit in the scandal would face the full rigors of the law.

The ongoing investigations are expected to provide further clarity on how the containers went missing, who was involved, and the potential legal ramifications for those found guilty. The Energy Ministry, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, remains determined to recover all missing assets and bring all perpetrators to book.

This case continues to unfold, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The Minister also urged the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting any information related to the case and assured whistleblowers of protection under the law. He reaffirmed that this issue is not just about financial losses but about maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s energy infrastructure and ensuring that resources meant for national development are safeguarded.