The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has cautioned businesses and members of the public against giving cash to its field officers during inspections or environmental compliance activities, describing such actions as illegal and a form of extortion.
Speaking at the EPA’s Tema Regional Office, the Director, Samuel Oteng, said the authority remains committed to transparency and accountability, warning that any officer found soliciting or accepting cash payments will face strict disciplinary sanctions.
He stressed that all payments related to EPA services must be made strictly through official channels, including designated banks, the Ghana.gov platform, or approved mobile money services.
“Paying officers directly is not permitted under any circumstances,” Mr Oteng said.
The warning comes as the EPA intensifies nationwide monitoring and enforcement exercises aimed at ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while safeguarding public trust.
According to the authority, maintaining clear and transparent payment procedures is essential to fair enforcement and environmental protection. The EPA has therefore urged the public to report any instances of solicitation to its regional offices or through its official communication channels.