Tema Port Rice Scandal

The Office of the Special Prosecutor has charged four public officials—Issah Seidu, James Keck Osei, John Abban, and Peter Archibold Hyde—with corruption in relation to an attempted unlawful acquisition of ten containers of imported rice at the Tema Port.

The rice, imported from Thailand in 2022 under lawful procedures and with duties fully paid, was fraudulently claimed by Issah Seidu using an uncertified Bill of Lading and a letter issued without authorisation from the Office of the Vice President, signed by James Keck Osei. The alleged scheme was facilitated by two Customs officials, John Abban and Peter Archibold Hyde, who failed to verify ownership and attempted to process the goods for auction in favour of Seidu.

The plot was uncovered following internal reviews and a civil suit, which confirmed that the goods did not belong to Seidu. The accused are expected to appear before the High Court for plea proceedings.