Exposé: The AG Marketing Mining License Scandal – A Case of Corporate Fraud and Regulatory Failure
In March 2025, Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources received a damning legal petition from Randolph Forbes Ballard Jr., Esq., a U.S.-based attorney with Simbal Law Group International. The letter exposed a multi-decade fraud scheme involving the unlawful seizure of a gold prospecting license belonging to AG Marketing Company Ltd. (AG Ghana), a legally registered Ghanaian company founded by Ghanaian businessman John Simpson. A Golden Opportunity Stolen: The AG Ghana Saga In the bustling corridors of Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, a storm was brewing in March 2025. A letter arrived from Randolph Forbes Ballard Jr., Esq., a respected U.S. attorney. Its contents were explosive: Ballard detailed a sweeping fraud that had, for decades, denied AG Marketing Company Ltd. (AG Ghana) its lawful gold prospecting license. AG Ghana’s story began in 1988, when John Simpson and Antonio Croom established the company. Their big break came in 1989, when Ghana’s Minerals Commission granted them a coveted gold prospecting license. But what should have been a story of entrepreneurial success quickly turned into a cautionary tale of betrayal and corporate intrigue. The Original License and the Corporate Hijacking Behind the scenes, Antonio Croom allegedly betrayed his partner. In 1995, Croom is alleged to have fraudulently coaxed Minerals Company to reissued AG Ghana’s license under the name of A.G. Marketing Inc. of Maryland, a U.S. company that had been dissolved five years prior. Without Simpson’s knowledge or consent, the Maryland company was then rebranded as Vista Mining Corporation as if it has had a name changed to Vista , setting in motion a tangled web of deception. Reports from Tennessee company registry indicates that Antonio Croom is not a director of Vista Mining Corporation but one William Pettigrew from Surry and Vancouver, Canada a director of Vista Mining Corporation and former director of Ashanti Sankofa is masterminded everything. The Tennessee Deception As investigators dug deeper, more troubling facts emerged. Vista Mining Corporation, which claimed rights to the Ghanaian license as early as 1989, wasn’t even registered in Tennessee until 1992 and in Ghana as an external in 1994. Despite this, Vista presented itself as the successor to the Maryland entity, though records showed the two were entirely separate. Alongside its affiliates, Ashanti Sankofa Inc. and Norcan Mining Corporation, Vista’s was taken over by Ashanti Sankofa Inc formerly known as AMI Resources Inc mounted its signage on AG Marketing Company Ltd’s gold concession at Adumasa without registration as an external company in Ghana and used the report from the gold concession to trade shares on Vancouver Stock Exchange and succeeded in raising millions of dollars as indicated in news releases published by Ashanti Sankofa/AMI Resources while bypassing local laws. Fraud Has No Time Bound And Vitiates everything Vista and Ashanti Sankofa continued to possess the concession for another 27 years, with regulatory bodies turning a blind eye, since several letters written to Vista and Ashanti Sankofa to explain how the licenses were transferred to them has not been answered to date. The Legal Petitions of 2025 The saga gained renewed attention in 2025, when two legal heavyweights intervened alongside police criminal investigations. 1. Randolph Forbes Ballard Jr.’s Petition (March 2025): Ballard’s letter laid out a damning case: fraudulent backdating of documents, a fake resolution issued by an unrelated third party, and fugitive directors, some of whom were hiding in the UK and Canada, who had evaded police summons. Ballard demanded the immediate reinstatement of AG Ghana’s license, a manhunt for the directors, and disciplinary action against corrupt officials. 2. Hensen Kwadwo Kodua’s Follow-Up (July 2025): In July, Hensen Kwadwo Kodua, a Ghanaian Supreme Court solicitor, doubled down on these claims. He highlighted the Minerals Commission’s failure to perform due diligence, noted that Ashanti Sankofa and Norcan Mining had no legal claim to the concession, and revealed that the Ghana Police CID had opened an investigation, though the suspects remained at large. Regulatory Failures The AG Ghana case exposed serious flaws in Ghana’s mining sector oversight: The Minerals Commission approved transfers without proper verification. Unregistered foreign entities were allowed to exploit Ghana’s natural resources with impunity. Where the Fight Stands Now The Ghana Police have now reached out to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, seeking guidance as their investigation continues. Yet, the illegal license transfer remains in place. For John Simpson, the battle isn’t over, he continues his long quest for justice and the restoration of AG Ghana’s rightful mineral rights. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Anti-Galamsey Convenor Demands Arrest of NDC Executives Over Illegal Mining Allegations
Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Convenor of the Anti-Galamsey Coalition, has called for the immediate arrest of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Organiser, Joseph Yamin, and the party’s National Vice Chairman, Yakubu Abanga, citing their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. Dr. Ashigbey voiced his concerns on Accra-based Channel One TV on August 18, stressing the need for law enforcement agencies to act without political bias in the ongoing fight against galamsey. The call for action follows a directive from the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, dated July 15, 2025, instructing the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to conduct a full-scale investigation into Yamin and Abanga after recent reports linked them to unauthorized mining operations. Despite the Attorney-General’s order, Dr. Ashigbey expressed disappointment over EOCO’s lack of visible action, urging them to treat the case with the same urgency as previous investigations, such as that of Akonta Mining involving Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi. “The NDC’s National Organiser, National Vice Chairman, have been pointed out by the AG to investigate them. Unfortunately, EOCO, we have not heard anything from you. Just as they did to Akonta Mining [Chairman Wontumi], they should arrest these two gentlemen and conduct the investigations,” Dr. Ashigbey stated. He emphasized that consistent enforcement of the law, regardless of political affiliation, is essential to effectively combat illegal mining. Dr. Ashigbey also called for prosecution in the case involving Chairman Wontumi, expressing concern over the silence following his arrest by EOCO, and urged that the NDC Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Ofori Larbi, be investigated after local chiefs linked him to illegal mining activities. His comments come in the wake of the tragic August 6 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives. The victims were reportedly en route to a galamsey-related event when the accident occurred. In response, the government has announced a renewed crackdown on illegal mining across the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s High Commissioner-designate Calls for Tough Measures to Tackle Galamsey
Ghana’s High Commissioner-designate to South Africa, Mr. Benjamin Quarshie, painted a vivid picture of the urgent need to curb illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, in Ghana. Mr. Quarshie did not mince words as he proposed bold and controversial steps to deter illegal miners. “The galamseyers must be made to drink water from the contaminated rivers if arrested, so they come to terms with the destruction they have caused,” he stated. His remarks were aimed at driving home the devastating environmental impact galamsey has had on Ghana’s water bodies and communities. Drawing on his observations from South Africa, Mr. Quarshie recounted how a tragic landslide involving illegal miners, known there as Zama Zama, prompted the South African authorities to take a hardline approach. The government’s refusal to show leniency or sympathy, he explained, discouraged others from continuing such environmentally destructive activities. Mr. Quarshie emphasized that Ghana must shift its focus beyond the small-scale operators, whom he referred to as “the small flies.” Instead, he called on the government to go after the real kingpins and financiers who fuel illegal mining operations across the country. To find a sustainable solution, Mr. Quarshie advocated for a national dialogue on galamsey. He urged all stakeholders to come together and address the environmental and socio-economic challenges posed by illegal mining, hoping that such a conversation would pave the way for long-term strategies to combat the menace. With these strong words and practical suggestions, Mr. Quarshie has set the stage for renewed debate on how Ghana can finally put an end to galamsey. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Eco-Conscious Citizens Urge State of Emergency on Galamsey After Tragic Helicopter Crash
The Executive Director of Eco-Conscious Citizens, Awula Serwah, has called on the government to seize the moment of national mourning, following the loss of eight Ghana Armed Forces personnel in a helicopter crash, to declare a targeted state of emergency in the fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey. Serwah’s appeal comes in the wake of the Z-9 Air Force helicopter tragedy in the Ashanti Region, which claimed the lives of all eight officers on board. She emphasized that the sacrifice of the “fallen eight,” as well as others who have died protecting Ghana’s natural resources, must mark a decisive turning point in the country’s efforts to end galamsey. “The deaths of the eight victims, along with others who have lost their lives in the fight against galamsey, should serve as a turning point in combating the menace,” Serwah said. She stressed that the battle against illegal mining could not continue as business as usual, warning that history would judge the current generation harshly if decisive steps were not taken. Serwah urged the government to recognize galamsey as an existential threat, not only to Ghana’s environment but also to its security. She called for the translation of political rhetoric into concrete action, arguing that the moment demands bold, targeted measures to honor the sacrifices made by the fallen and to chart a new course for the nation’s natural heritage. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Asantehene Champions Local Empowerment in Ghana’s Mining Sector
In a thought-provoking address, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, passionately advocated for a pivotal shift in Ghana’s mining industry. Apexnewsgh reports During a recent meeting of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs, he made a compelling case for large-scale mining concessions to be awarded to local investors rather than foreign entities. “Imagine a Ghana where our own people own and operate the mines, reaping the benefits for future generations,” he urged, suggesting that increased local ownership would lead to more meaningful and lasting economic benefits for the nation. The Asantehene pointed to Johannesburg, South Africa, as a prime example, showcasing how indigenous control over mining enterprises can drive national development and create substantial wealth. His words resonated particularly in light of growing apprehension regarding the dominance of foreign companies in Ghana’s mining sector. Critics have voiced concerns that this trend not only limits long-term national gain but also undermines the country’s developmental potential. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stressed that it was time to move beyond the current system, where foreign firms extract resources while local communities receive minimal returns. He advocated for empowering Ghanaian businesses and individuals to take the lead in mining operations, ensuring a more equitable distribution of the country’s vast mineral wealth. In a bold call to action, the Asantehene urged traditional leaders to shift their focus from merely accepting royalty payments to pursuing equity stakes in mining ventures. He argued that such an approach would promote local participation and secure sustained benefits for future generations. His passionate plea aligns with a growing national advocacy for economic empowerment and resource nationalism as Ghana navigates new strategies to maximize the value derived from its abundant natural resources. With the Asantehene’s leadership, there is a hopeful vision for a future where Ghanaians thrive through their rich mineral heritage. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Executives Joseph Yamin and Yakubu Abanga Deny Allegations Tied to Rogue Anti-Galamsey Taskforce
Two national executives of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joseph Yamin, National Organiser, and Yakubu Abanga, have firmly denied allegations linking them to an illegal anti-galamsey taskforce accused of extorting money and harassing small-scale miners across Ghana. The allegations originated from the Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana (CSSMGG), which claimed that a rogue taskforce, allegedly operating under the influence or support of Yamin and Abanga, has been terrorizing miners in various communities. The miners highlighted incidents in Sekondi, Bekwai, Offinso, and Prestea, where heavily armed individuals dressed in military gear purportedly invoked the names of the two political figures while engaging in acts of extortion and intimidation. In separate interviews, both Yamin and Abanga categorically rejected the accusations and called on national security authorities to take action against anyone impersonating them or misusing their names for illicit activities. “I would be the last to sanction the activities of any illegal taskforce or group,” Yamin stated during an interview on Sunday, July 13, 2025. He emphasized, “I have never engaged in mining, and I urge security agencies to act swiftly against any individuals using my name to harass legitimate miners.” Yamin also noted that he has previously reported illegal mining activities to the authorities, with his latest report involving a case in the Eastern Region. He encouraged miners to apprehend anyone claiming to represent him or the NDC in such operations, reinforcing his stance against illegal mining practices. Yakubu Abanga, the party’s 3rd Vice Chairperson, similarly denied any involvement, asserting that he has not authorized anyone to operate on his behalf regarding such matters. “I am a licensed miner with concessions in Ashanti, Western, and even in Côte d’Ivoire,” Abanga said. “I would never undermine the government’s anti-galamsey efforts, especially when I have been a victim myself, having some of my concessions taken from me and currently battling the matter in court.” Both leaders emphasized their commitment to supporting legal mining operations and upholding the rule of law, distancing themselves from any groups engaged in illegal activities in the guise of an anti-galamsey campaign. In a press statement addressing these claims, Yamin clarified: “For the record, I am not part of any galamsey taskforce, nor have I been consulted or invited to contribute ideas on how to address illegal mining activities involving some small-scale miners. If any individual or group is parading as a taskforce using my name, such actions are illegal and must be stopped immediately.” He urged the Concerned Small-Scale Miners to dissociate him from their claims and to address their grievances through appropriate legal and regulatory institutions for a lasting solution. Both Yamin and Abanga’s responses highlight their commitment to legality and transparency in the ongoing fight against illegal mining operations in the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Introduces Whistleblower Incentive to Combat Gold Smuggling
President John Dramani Mahama has announced a financial incentive for whistleblowers who provide credible information leading to the recovery of illegally traded gold or its cash equivalent. Speaking at the official inauguration of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Taskforce, President Mahama said informants will be entitled to 10% of the value of any seized assets. The launch of the GoldBod Taskforce marks a bold step toward safeguarding the country’s natural resources. President Mahama emphasized that the taskforce will play a crucial role in combating gold smuggling and ensuring that Ghana’s gold resources are utilized for the benefit of its citizens. The president’s announcement is aimed at encouraging individuals with information about gold smuggling to come forward. By offering a financial reward, the government hopes to gather intelligence that will lead to the recovery of illegally traded gold and its cash equivalent. This initiative is expected to be a significant deterrent to those involved in illicit gold trading. The Ghana Gold Board Taskforce was inaugurated at the National Security Secretariat in Accra. The taskforce is expected to work tirelessly to identify and prosecute individuals and organizations involved in gold smuggling. President Mahama’s announcement underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources and promoting transparency in the gold industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Ghana’s Finance Minister Reveals Shocking Gold Smuggling Figures
Ghana’s Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has made a startling revelation about the scale of gold smuggling in the country. According to Dr. Forson, 60 tonnes of gold, worth an estimated $1.2 billion, were smuggled out of Ghana at the height of the economic crisis in 2022. This amount is nearly half of the $3 billion bailout Ghana sought from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stabilize the economy. Dr. Forson lamented that smuggling operations have deprived the country of much-needed foreign exchange and development resources. “This nation-wrecking act has gone on for far too long, and the consequences have been very dire,” he stated. He emphasized that the value of the smuggled gold could have made a significant difference in Ghana’s economic situation. The Finance Minister underscored the urgency for bold action, calling for firm and decisive measures against those sabotaging Ghana’s economy. “It is time for us to be decisive and ruthless towards those who are sabotaging the economy of Ghana. Ghanaians deserve better,” he declared. He expressed hope that curbing smuggling would allow the country to regain control over its gold resources and ensure maximum benefit for its citizens. Dr. Forson also pledged his support for the Ghana Gold Board, which he said has shown impressive progress in the first half of the year. “Defeating the gold smuggling syndicate will place our country firmly in control of our gold resources,” he noted. He added that the recent inauguration of a special task force to combat smuggling would enhance efforts to tackle the problem and recover lost revenue. The Finance Minister referenced the estimated 600 tonnes of gold believed to have been smuggled over the past decade, worth around $12 billion. “Imagine $12 billion translating into foreign exchange and supporting Ghana’s reserves position,” he wrote. This staggering amount highlights the severity of the problem and the need for immediate action. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Coalition Calls for Probe into MP, NDC Executives Over Alleged Galamsey Involvement
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has demanded an immediate investigation into Aowin Member of Parliament, Oscar Ofori Larbi, and two National Democratic Congress (NDC) constituency executives over their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. Addressing a press conference in Accra, the Coalition’s Convener, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, urged state authorities to take firm and impartial action. Dr. Ashigbey stressed that political affiliations must not be used as a shield to protect those who flout the law. “This is no longer just an environmental issue. Communities are being poisoned, our water bodies are being destroyed, and the future of this nation is being mortgaged due to inaction on illegal mining,” he declared. Dr. Ashigbey warned that if individuals entrusted with the responsibility of making laws are found to be breaking them, it signals a deeper national crisis. The Coalition is demanding that state investigative bodies immediately look into the allegations and, if evidence is found, pursue prosecution without fear or favour. Dr. Ashigbey renewed calls for the government to declare a nationwide state of emergency in areas most affected by galamsey, noting that the scale of destruction now poses a serious national security risk. “We cannot afford selective justice. Accountability must be upheld regardless of political ties. The law must work for all,” he added. The Coalition’s demands underscore the need for impartial action against individuals accused of engaging in illegal mining activities, regardless of their political affiliations. The call for a nationwide state of emergency highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for urgent action to mitigate the effects of galamsey.
Small-Scale Miners Make Progress in Meeting Gold Trading License Deadline
The Concerned Small Scale Miners Association is confident about meeting the June 21 deadline set by the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) for compliance with the new gold trading license regime. After an initial extension was granted due to documentation delays, the association’s President, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, reports significant progress. According to Peprah, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has streamlined its processes, establishing additional offices at the district level to support existing structures. This development has greatly reduced the time required to obtain necessary clearances for gold trading licenses. Peprah noted that relevant state institutions are now prioritizing the GoldBod licensing process, accelerating the regularisation of small-scale miners nationwide. With these improvements, the association is optimistic about meeting the June 21 deadline. The Ghana Gold Board had warned that June 21 would be the final deadline for compliance, with no further extensions allowed. The association’s progress suggests that its members are well on track to meet the requirements, ensuring their continued participation in the gold trading industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen