The former Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, says he would have been one of the richest in the country if he were a thief.

However, that is not the case since he has been selfless in his service to the country.

According to him, he has the best interest of the country at heart in everything he has done for Ghana.

He spoke about how he single-handedly contributed significantly to the health sector of the country.

“Since I came from Germany, I planned the National Cardiothoracic Centre at the age of 39 and built this centre without one cedi contribution from the government. I am talking about the block, and I have done many things and all in the interest of this country. Never thought about myself. If I were a thief, I would have been one of the richest people in this country,” he stressed.  

Speaking in an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express, Prof Frimpong-Boateng said that if there are no selfish motives behind what is done in the country, it will definitely improve.

His comments come after reports that he was arrested and granted a ¢2 million bail by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

According to JoyNews sources, Mr Frimpong-Boateng’s arrest related to an alleged 320 million spent by the now-defunct Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) that has yet to be accounted for.

The renowned surgeon is to account for drones and other equipment bought and used for the fight against illegal mining, as well as his alleged involvement in the disappearance of some 500 excavators.

When asked if he finds it legitimate that the missing excavators and some other expenditures are being probed by the Special Prosecutor, he replied in the affirmative.

“These are monies belonging to the people, therefore we should all account for our stewardship wherever we are. If I have done anything wrong, I stand to go before the court and answer these questions and this should apply to everyone,” he added.

He cautioned people occupying public positions in the country to be wary since the tables could turn on them someday.

“As we go along in life in this country, others who have the power or influence now should know that at some point, they would also be held accountable for what they are doing.”

Meanwhile, the renowned heart surgeon says he feels victimised over his invitation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor which later became an arrest for which he was granted a GHS 2 million cedi bail.

According to him, he was surprised by the treatment meted out to him, given his selfless contributions to the country.