A major case of fuel theft has rocked a local Oil filling station in Kumasi,with losses totaling over GH₵450,000, after a pump mechanic and some station attendants were allegedly caught siphoning fuel and cash over several months.
According to sources close to the station management, the trouble began last year when persistent fuel shortages and discrepancies in meter readings were first noticed.
Despite repeated calibrations by technicians, the shortages continued, raising suspicions of internal theft.
Investigations Reveal Inside Job
The pump mechanic, Nana Opoku Gyampo, who laid the station’s fuel discharge pipes since the company’s inception, had access to the pumps due to his technical role.
Leakages and maintenance calls were usually his responsibility.
Over time, the station noticed growing discrepancies with severe losses recorded in:
October: GH₵20,944.64
November: GH₵14,883.82
December: GH₵25,186.11
January: GH₵20,363.66
February: GHC 8,315.56
Information is that the whistle over their nefarious activities was blown by a tanker driver, who came to park and rest at the station at night to continue his work the following morning, reportedly observed the suspicious activity by the pump mechanic and his cohorts.
The pump mechanic and some pump attendants, Prince Amoabeng and Cosmos Opoku; both residents of Ejisu, were allegedly using jerry cans to siphon fuel and had even disabled the pump board to cover their tracks.
The station’s manager confirmed that cash shortages also matched the fuel losses, with GH₵360,445 in cash missing and underground tank loses amounting to GH₵89,693.78 have been debited, bringing the total losses to GH₵450,448.80.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
During investigations, some staff who were arrested and interrogated admitted to the theft and mentioned Nana Opoku Gyampo, Kyidom Hene of Asuoso in the Eastern Region as the mastermind.
He was also arrested following that revelation.
During interrogation, he reportedly admitted to his role in the theft.
The case has since been sent to court, though proceedings have been adjourned.
Authorities have promised a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future.
This shocking case highlights vulnerabilities in fuel distribution networks and the ongoing need for strict monitoring and transparency in the petroleum sector.
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