163 NSS staff sacked over "ghost name scam"

The National Service Scheme has dismissed 163 staff of the Scheme with immediate effect over some financial malfeasance.

The staff, including two persons who are on retirement, are also to be prosecuted and made to refund monies they allegedly embezzled using "ghost name scam".

A case against three staff serving as prosecution witnesses has been deferred.

A press statement signed by the Acting Executive Director of the Scheme, Dr. Michael Kpessa-Whyte said the decision was taken on the advice of the Board following receipt of an official report from the Board's Disciplinary Committee about the financial malfeasance identified in the operations of the Personnel Allowances Accounts in the 2013/14 service year.

"The dismissals are without prejudice to criminal prosecutions by the State. This is in line with President John Mahama’s resolve to fight corruption and abuse of public office," the statement quoted Dr. Kpessa-Whyte.