Accra, Ghana – In a significant crackdown on illicit gold trading, the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD) has declared a GH¢1 million bounty on each of four suspects believed to be behind a major gold smuggling syndicate. The suspects, identified as Rafeeq Mohammed Nandoli, Muhammed Afsah Puthalan, Abdul Karim, and Sadique Abubakar, are currently at large, with arrest warrants issued for their capture.
According to the GOLDBOD, the syndicate, involving RAFMOH Gold Ltd and NK Benak Enterprise, illegally purchased and attempted to smuggle gold worth over GH¢100 million in just two months. The elaborate operation was uncovered following a tip-off from a whistleblower, which led to the arrest of Abdul Razak Seidu on August 27, 2025, with 8.5 kilograms of gold valued at GH¢10.2 million.
The Suspects:
– Rafeeq Mohammed Nandoli (alias Salam): Owner of Rafmoh Gold Limited, suspected to be the mastermind behind the smuggling network
– Muhammed Afsah Puthalan: Indian national and alleged key player in the syndicate
– Abdul Karim: Suspected recruiter and handler of couriers
– Sadique Abubakar: Ghanaian suspect involved in the smuggling operation
The GOLDBOD has shut down the offices of NK Benak Enterprise in Tarkwa and Rafmoh Jewelry at Palace Mall in Accra, suspending their licenses. Three suspects are currently in custody, facing charges including gold smuggling, transporting gold without authorization, and engaging in illegal gold trade.
Reward Information:
The GH¢1 million bounty is being offered for information leading to the capture of each suspect. Citizens are urged to report any credible information to the nearest police station or the GOLDBOD head office.
In a statement, GOLDBOD CEO Sammy Gyamfi emphasized the agency’s commitment to restoring integrity to Ghana’s gold trade, warning that anyone involved in illegal gold trading, hoarding, or smuggling will face the full force of the law without fear or favor.