Former Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene and his wife allegedly pre-signed cheque books. These cheques were later used to withdraw GHS49 million. Mildred Donkor, a former director at Advantage Solutions Limited, testified in court. She told the Accra High Court that the cheques were signed long before the money was taken out.
The investigation centres on the National Signals Bureau (NSB). Twelve cheque books were shown to the witness in court. Donkor identified them as belonging to Advantage Solutions and other related companies. These accounts were held with Universal Merchant Bank (UMB). The witness confirmed account numbers. She also pointed to cheque books for BNC Communications Bureau Ltd and Vertex Solutions Ltd. Donkor stated that both Kwabena Adu-Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, were the signatories on these cheques. She confirmed they were pre-signed when asked by the court.
Donkor explained her role in the fund withdrawals. This happened after the cheques were already signed. She received verbal instructions from Adu-Boahene or his wife. Donkor then wrote the specific amounts on the cheque leaflets. She then went ahead to carry out the withdrawals. The money was withdrawn personally or through associates. The withdrawn funds were distributed in various ways. Some were given directly to Adu-Boahene and his wife. Other funds passed through Donkor before delivery. Some money was also paid to third parties, including Margaret Aba Donkor, Adu-Boahene's mother. These funds were for construction materials for a project in Asokore, Kumasi. Payments were also made to suppliers of construction materials like iron rods and cement.
The witness maintained personal records of these transactions. She used a notebook and an Excel spreadsheet. Donkor created these records independently for reconciliation. She intended to present these documents as evidence. However, the defence team objected. They argued they had only just received the materials. They needed time for proper review. The prosecution agreed to delay this part of the hearing. This ensures a fair trial for everyone involved. Adu-Boahene faces charges of defrauding by false pretences. He is also accused of wilfully causing financial loss to the state. Other charges include using public office for personal gain. His wife faces charges of conspiracy and money laundering.