Latest news with #OSP
Scoop
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Altared States Concert Series Coming Up At Old St Paul's
Wellington's iconic Old St Paul's (OSP) is partnering with Pyramid Club to present Altared States - a transcendent new series of concerts featuring electronic music by some of Wellington's leading artists. Inspired by Brian Sweeney's New York-founded Ambient Church, Altared States promises an immersive sonic experience that invites audiences to explore sound in a deeply personal and transformative way. Set within the chancel of the venue's altar, the historic building - cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga - will host a series of 60-minute immersive sound experiences, with each artist redefining ritual in a contemporary light. The four Friday night concerts will feature different artists beginning with Ludus on August 1, followed by Stephen Gallagher with David Long and Jules Desmond (August 8); Oghum (August 15); and Dream Chambers (August 22). Altared States marks a milestone in the property's story according to Old St Paul's Event Coordinator Jane Nye. "We're weaving OSP's heritage with the progressive energy of Pōneke's Pyramid Club together with leading producers and composers to create an event that reflects both venerable architecture and iconography, as well as contemporary vision," she says. Versatility is one of OSP's outstanding virtues, according to Jane, where events range from funeral services, weddings and incredible drag shows through to film and photography shoots, themed Gothic film nights, and now electronic music. "The Altared States series reaffirms that Old St Paul's isn't stuck in history - it's defined by ongoing rejuvenation," she says. "I want to surprise audiences with versatile programming that breaks down stereotypes about what's 'appropriate' in a heritage building - especially one with so many pews!" For more information about Altared States including artists, concert times and tickets:
Business Insider
5 days ago
- Politics
- Business Insider
Ghana's OSP charges former NPA boss over GH₵280m extortion and money laundering scheme
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has formally charged the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, along with nine others, over their alleged involvement in a wide-ranging extortion and money laundering operation valued at over GH₵280 million. The Office of the Special Prosecutor charged Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid and nine others with corruption-related crimes. The allegations involve extortion and money laundering activities valued at over GH₵280 million. Investigations revealed illicit financial dealings and abuse of official authority between 2022 and 2024. According to a statement issued on Thursday, 17 July 2025, the charges stem from investigations launched in late 2024 into the unlawful diversion of public funds and alleged collusion with oil marketing and bulk distribution firms. A total of seven individuals and three companies face 25 charges, including extortion by a public officer and money laundering. List of accused individuals and entities The individuals and corporate bodies charged are as follows: Details of the Alleged Scheme The OSP revealed that between 2022 and December 2024, Dr Abdul-Hamid, Amuah, and Newman , leveraging their official positions, allegedly orchestrated a criminal enterprise that extorted GH₵280,516,127.19 from petroleum transporters and oil marketing companies. The scheme, according to investigators, was initiated by Dr Abdul-Hamid and operationalised by Amuah and Newman. It was described as having 'no legal basis' and constituted a blatant abuse of office. The OSP further stated that 'from the proceeds of this unlawful scheme, Jacob Amuah delivered GH₵24 million in cash directly to Dr Abdul-Hamid between January and December 2024.' In addition, 'GH₵227.2 million was reportedly transferred through Wendy Newman, acting under Amuah's direction, for further disbursement.' Use of shell companies and money laundering allegations The investigation also uncovered that the remaining accused individuals , Ankrah, Mensah, Bediako-Mensah, and Acquaah , allegedly collaborated with a fugitive director of Kel Logistics Limited to establish three shell entities: Propnest Limited, Kel Logistics Limited, and Kings Energy Limited. These companies were used to launder the illicit proceeds. The OSP's statement noted: 'The laundered funds were used to acquire and construct residential properties, purchase trucks for petroleum haulage, and establish fuel stations , all with the aim of concealing the criminal origins of the funds.' Charges and court proceedings All ten accused parties face the following 25 charges: Extortion by a Public Officer, contrary to Section 151 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, contrary to Section 23 of Act 29 and Sections 1(1), 1(2), and 4 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020 (Act 1044) Money Laundering, contrary to Sections 1(1), 1(2), and 4 of Act 1044 One Osei Tutu Adjei, a director of one of the implicated companies, is currently on the run and being pursued by authorities. The arrested individuals are expected to appear before the court on a date yet to be determined, at which point their pleas will be heard.
GMA Network
6 days ago
- Politics
- GMA Network
Senators question 'delayed' start of Sara Duterte impeachment trial
Majority of senator-judges vote on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in favor of returning the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the House of Representatives. Courtesy: Joseph B. Vidal/OSP Several senators on Friday raised questions regarding the plan to begin the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on August 4, a week after the 20th Congress begins its first regular session. According to Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson, such a proposition may need to be discussed in the plenary to determine the justification for the "delayed" reconvening of the impeachment court to August 4, then senators could vote on it. "Whatever the majorly of the 24 senators will decide, we should follow, but not without manifesting or explaining our votes, if some of us would choose to," Lacson said in a statement. "As a senator-judge, I want to hear or participate in the discussion of any major issue involved in the impeachment process before making a decision because it is a constitutional duty," he added. Meanwhile, Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan said that he would ask for a clarification regarding the proposed schedule. "In keeping with the Constitutional mandate, dapat walang delay sa [there should be no delay in the] trial proper. The earliest possible time we can convene the better because the Constitution is quite clear that upon receipt of the complaint trial by the Senate shall forthwith proceed," he said. Article XI Section 3(4) of the 1987 Constitution states that: "In case the verified complaint or resolution of impeachment is filed by at least one-third of all the Members of the House, the same shall constitute the Articles of Impeachment, and trial by the Senate shall forthwith proceed." Senator Vicente "Tito" Sotto III, also called for the start of the impeachment trial "at the soonest possible time," believing that it has been delayed "considerably." Senator Bam Aquino, for his part, expressed readiness should the trial proper begin in August. "Handa na tayong gampanan ang tungkulin at responsibilidad bilang senator-judge," Aquino said. Sa prosesong ito, titiyakin nating mananaig ang ating mga batas at kapakanan ng ating mamamayan." (We are ready to fulfill our duty and responsibility as a senator-judge. In this process, we will ensure that our laws and the welfare of our people will prevail.) The returning senator also disclosed that he has already consulted with lawyers and experts as part of his preparation for the upcoming trial. "Bubusisiing mabuti ang mga ebidensyang ipepresenta, magiging mapanuri, at bukas ang mata at isip sa proseso. Sundin ang Konstitusyon — tuloy ang trial sa August 4," he added. (We will scrutinize the evidence presented, be critical, and be open-minded in the process. We will follow the Constitution—the trial will push through on August 4.) It was Senator Joel Villanueva who revealed that the Day 1 of Duterte's impeachment trial may be on August 4—a week after the fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on July 28. The SONA will be delivered hours after the Senate and the House of Representatives open their first regular session. The House of Representatives impeached Duterte on February 5, with over 200 lawmakers endorsing the complaint. The Vice President is accused of betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the constitution, graft and corruption, and other high crimes. The Senate impeachment court first convened on June 10, with the senator-judges under the 19th Congress voting to return the Articles of Impeachment without dismissing or terminating the case. Duterte had entered a "not guilty" plea in the verified impeachment complaint filed against her, which she called a mere "scrap of paper." — VDV, GMA Integrated News
Business Insider
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
FBI clears Ghana's extradition request for most wanted former finance minister
The United States Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have reportedly expressed support for the Government of Ghana's request to extradite former Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, who has been declared wanted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and listed on INTERPOL's Red Notice database. The United States Department of Justice and FBI support Ghana's request to extradite former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. Ofori-Atta has been declared wanted by Ghana's Office of the Special Prosecutor and listed on INTERPOL's Red Notice database. The U.S. authorities do not view the charges against Ofori-Atta as political persecution. According to a report by sources at the U.S. Embassy in Accra confirmed that both agencies have determined that the legal processes initiated against Ofori-Atta are valid and do not constitute political persecution. No grounds for witch-hunt claims, U.S. authorities reportedly say The report indicates that the U.S. Department of Justice and FBI found no basis to classify the extradition request as a witch-hunt. It was also noted that any foreign national in the U.S. who believes they are being unfairly targeted by their home government may seek protection under U.S. immigration law. Ken Ofori-Atta, believed to be currently residing in the United States, was re-declared wanted by the OSP on 12 February 2025, with an INTERPOL Red Notice subsequently issued against him. OSP investigating multiple high-profile cases involving Ofori-Atta The Office of the Special Prosecutor is probing Ofori-Atta in relation to several significant public sector contracts and financial decisions during his tenure. These include: 1. Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd Contract - Alleged irregularities in contracts between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the GRA for revenue assurance in key sectors. 2. ECG-BXC Contract Termination - Investigation into the cancellation of a distribution and loss reduction contract between ECG and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology. 3. National Cathedral Project - Scrutiny over procurement practices, payments, and contractor selection for the controversial National Cathedral. 4. Ambulance Procurement - Probing the Ministry of Health's contract with Service Ghana Auto Group Limited for the acquisition and servicing of over 300 ambulances. 5. GRA Tax Refund Account - Investigation into the management and use of funds from the Ghana Revenue Authority's tax refund account. EOCO and NIB Also on the Case Ghana's Deputy Attorney General has confirmed that in addition to the OSP's investigations, Ken Ofori-Atta is also under scrutiny by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) for related corruption and procurement infractions.
Business Insider
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
FBI clears Ghana's extradition request for Ghana's most wanted former Finance Minister
The United States Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have reportedly expressed support for the Government of Ghana's request to extradite former Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, who has been declared wanted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and listed on INTERPOL's Red Notice database. The United States Department of Justice and FBI support Ghana's request to extradite former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. Ofori-Atta has been declared wanted by Ghana's Office of the Special Prosecutor and listed on INTERPOL's Red Notice database. The U.S. authorities do not view the charges against Ofori-Atta as political persecution. According to a report by sources at the U.S. Embassy in Accra confirmed that both agencies have determined that the legal processes initiated against Ofori-Atta are valid and do not constitute political persecution. No grounds for witch-hunt claims, U.S. authorities reportedly say The report indicates that the U.S. Department of Justice and FBI found no basis to classify the extradition request as a witch-hunt. It was also noted that any foreign national in the U.S. who believes they are being unfairly targeted by their home government may seek protection under U.S. immigration law. Ken Ofori-Atta, believed to be currently residing in the United States, was re-declared wanted by the OSP on 12 February 2025, with an INTERPOL Red Notice subsequently issued against him. OSP investigating multiple high-profile cases involving Ofori-Atta The Office of the Special Prosecutor is probing Ofori-Atta in relation to several significant public sector contracts and financial decisions during his tenure. These include: 1. Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd Contract - Alleged irregularities in contracts between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the GRA for revenue assurance in key sectors. 2. ECG-BXC Contract Termination - Investigation into the cancellation of a distribution and loss reduction contract between ECG and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology. 3. National Cathedral Project - Scrutiny over procurement practices, payments, and contractor selection for the controversial National Cathedral. 4. Ambulance Procurement - Probing the Ministry of Health's contract with Service Ghana Auto Group Limited for the acquisition and servicing of over 300 ambulances. 5. GRA Tax Refund Account - Investigation into the management and use of funds from the Ghana Revenue Authority's tax refund account. EOCO and NIB Also on the Case Ghana's Deputy Attorney General has confirmed that in addition to the OSP's investigations, Ken Ofori-Atta is also under scrutiny by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) for related corruption and procurement infractions.
