The ongoing trial of Kwabena Adu-Boahene, former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB, formerly BNC), and his co-accused has taken a new turn following testimony from Madam Edith Ruby Opokua Adumuah, a prosecution witness and Head of Finance at NSB, who was called by the Attorney-General.
Her testimony appears to contradict the key facts presented by the Attorney-General, specifically regarding the autonomy of the security entity.
The case revolves around charges of stealing and conspiracy to steal, related to the alleged transfer of GH¢49 million, which the prosecution claims is equivalent to approximately US$7 million, intended for cybersecurity infrastructure.
Under cross-examination by Adu-Boahene’s Counsel, Atta Akyea, Madam Edith Ruby Opokua Adumuah testified that prior to the NSB’s formation in December 2020, Adu-Boahene could not conduct transactions on the agency’s accounts without the approval of the National Security Coordinator.
This testimony supports Adu-Boahene’s consistent assertion, led by his Counsel, that the Bureau of National Investigations (BNC, later NIB) was a subordinate department controlled by the National Security Coordinator, rather than an autonomous agency operating independently under the former Director-General.
The witness further stated that there was no state-owned company named BNC, as referenced in the charge sheet, and confirmed that there was no US$7 million transaction involving the conversion of the alleged GH¢49 million.
Led by Samuel Atta Akyea, the defense team grilled the witness on her statements and the Bureau’s financial records.
Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, alongside Esi Yankah and Rabiatu Abdulai, represented the State.
Kwabena Adu-Boahene and Adjei-Boateng have been accused of moving GH₵49 million, meant for purchasing software for the state, into their private company through a complex web of companies ultimately owned by ASL.
Adu-Boahene has pleaded not guilty to defrauding by false pretences, one count of wilfully causing financial loss to the state, one count of using public office for personal gain, and one count of obtaining public property by false pretences, while his wife has been charged with collaborating to use public office for personal gain, conspiracy to launder money, and money laundering.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana