Accra, Ghana – May 20, 2025 – The Court of Appeal has dismissed an application by Nana Appiah Mensah, also known as NAM1, to stop his ongoing criminal trial. The case, tied to the collapse of Menzgold Ghana Limited, remains one of the most high-profile financial cases in recent Ghanaian history.
Why NAM1 Is on Trial
NAM1 is the former CEO of Menzgold Ghana Limited. He is on trial alongside his companies — Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult.
They face 39 criminal charges, which include:
- Selling gold without a license
- Operating an unlicensed deposit-taking business
- Inducing the public to invest
- Defrauding by false pretenses
- Breach of trust
- Money laundering
These charges are linked to investor losses of over GH₵340 million.
What Happened in Court Before
In July 2024, the High Court ruled that there was enough evidence for the trial to continue. The judge said the prosecution had built a strong enough case and ordered NAM1 and his companies to start their defense.
NAM1’s lawyers disagreed. They appealed the decision and asked the Court of Appeal to pause the trial while their appeal was heard.
Court of Appeal’s Latest Ruling
On May 19, 2025, the Court of Appeal rejected that request.
A panel of three justices — Gbiel S. Suurbaareh, Afia Serwaa Asare-Botwe, and Christopher Archer — ruled unanimously that there were no special reasons to delay the trial.
State prosecutors opposed the application, calling it an attempt to stall justice. They argued that the High Court’s ruling was fair and backed by solid evidence.
NAM1 Reacts to the Decision
After the ruling, NAM1 said he respected the court’s decision but would keep defending himself. He hinted at a possible appeal to the Supreme Court and said he was reviewing options with his legal team.
What Happens Next?
The criminal trial will continue on May 28, 2025. Many Ghanaians — especially Menzgold customers who lost money — are watching closely. The case could set a major precedent for how financial crimes are handled in Ghana.
