Former NSS Deputy Boss Gifty Oware Detained by NIB Over Payroll Fraud Investigation

Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Gifty Oware-Mensah, has reportedly been detained by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) in connection with an ongoing payroll fraud investigation that has rocked the agency. Her detention marks a significant development in the probe into alleged financial irregularities within the NSS during her tenure.

Circumstances Leading to Detention

According to reports, Gifty Oware-Mensah was taken into custody on Friday, March 7, 2025, upon her arrival in Ghana earlier in the week. She had been out of the country for several months, sparking speculation about her possible evasion of investigation. Her sudden return, followed by her immediate detention, has intensified discussions about the depth of the ongoing probe into fraudulent activities at the NSS.

Sources indicate that she was not given prior notice of any warrant for her arrest or investigation. Legal representatives working on her behalf have expressed frustration over the lack of transparency surrounding her detention, stating that efforts to secure her release or determine her exact location have proven futile.

Allegations Against Gifty Oware-Mensah

Her detention is linked to an alleged payroll fraud scheme within the NSS, which is currently under investigation by state authorities. The scheme reportedly involved:

  • Inflating the payroll with ‘ghost names’ to siphon funds from the state.
  • Manipulation of records to divert allowances meant for national service personnel.
  • Unauthorized payments made to individuals with no active service at the scheme.

These fraudulent activities allegedly led to millions of Ghana Cedis in financial losses to the government. The investigation seeks to unravel the full extent of the financial mismanagement and identify all individuals involved in the scheme.

Connection to Earlier Arrests

Gifty Oware-Mensah’s detention comes just weeks after the arrest of Kwaku Ohene Gyan, the former Deputy Director of Operations at the NSS, who was also picked up by the NIB for questioning in relation to the same fraud case.

It is believed that both individuals played key roles in the operational and administrative activities of the scheme, making them central figures in the investigation. The NIB is expected to intensify interrogations to uncover the masterminds behind the payroll manipulations and ensure accountability for mismanaged funds.

Legal Battle & Calls for Justice

Oware-Mensah’s legal team, led by lawyer Nana Agyei-Baffour, has called for her immediate release, citing procedural violations in the manner in which she was detained. They argue that she had not been officially invited by the NIB for questioning prior to her arrest and should have been given the chance to cooperate with investigations rather than being detained.

Public opinion on the matter remains divided. While some argue that her detention is politically motivated, others believe that the NIB’s actions are necessary in ensuring accountability within public institutions. The case has drawn attention from anti-corruption activists, who insist that all individuals involved in financial mismanagement should be held accountable, regardless of their political affiliations or past contributions to public service.

NIB’s Response & Investigation Outlook

The NIB has remained tight-lipped regarding the specifics of the investigation, but sources within the bureau confirm that more high-profile arrests could follow as evidence is reviewed. Investigators are said to be working with the Attorney General’s office to build a strong case against those implicated in the scandal.

With increasing pressure from the public and civil society organizations, the government may soon issue an official statement regarding the next steps in the case. Analysts predict that if found guilty, those involved could face severe legal consequences, including prosecution for financial crimes, embezzlement, and abuse of public office.

Political Implications & Public Reaction

Gifty Oware-Mensah is known for her strong political affiliations and was considered a rising star within the political landscape. Her detention, coupled with the recent NSS scandal, has sent shockwaves through Ghana’s political space, with many wondering how far-reaching the investigations will go.

Some members of her party have accused the government of selective justice, claiming that similar cases of financial mismanagement under previous administrations have been ignored. Others, however, insist that corruption must be dealt with decisively, no matter which political party is involved.

As the case unfolds, Ghanaians are keenly following developments, eager to see whether the authorities will take firm action against corruption or if this will become another high-profile case that fades away without consequence.

Conclusion

The detention of Gifty Oware-Mensah marks a significant turning point in the fight against financial misconduct within the NSS. With mounting evidence and increased scrutiny from the public, the NIB’s actions in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the credibility of the investigation.

As investigations continue, one thing is clear: Ghanaians are demanding justice and accountability. Whether this case will lead to genuine reforms within the National Service Scheme or devolve into a politically charged legal battle remains to be seen.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

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