Two SML executives sue OSP over public photo exposure
Two top figures linked to the Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) investigation have filed a human rights lawsuit against the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), challenging the use of their photographs during the probe.
The individuals, Christian Tetteh Sotie, Managing Director of SML, and Isaac Crentsil, former Customs Commissioner of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and now a Manager at SML, are under investigation over contracts between SML and the GRA for revenue assurance services.
In their legal filing, the two argue that the OSP acted unlawfully by photographing them while they held placards displaying their names, despite not being formally charged with any offence.
They are asking the court to rule that the act, and any potential publication of the images, violates their fundamental rights.
Specifically, they are requesting the court to:
- Declare the photographing unlawful
- Prevent the publication of the images
- Restrain the OSP from using or releasing them
The case comes amid ongoing investigations into possible corruption involving revenue-monitoring contracts awarded to SML across sectors like petroleum and mining.
These contracts have sparked public interest and legal challenges, including a lawsuit by civil society groups seeking the recovery of over GH¢1 billion for alleged procurement breaches.
While the OSP has confirmed arrests and searches as part of its broader probe, no formal charges have yet been brought against the two applicants.