The National Service Authority (NSA) has taken a bold step to tackle payroll fraud and ghost names in the 2025/2026 National Service database, arresting 10 individuals involved in the scandal.

The announcement was made by NSA Director-General, Ms Ruth Dela Sedoh, at a press briefing in Accra on December 15, 2025.

According to Ms Sedoh, the investigation revealed that the suspects created fake profiles and colluded with insiders to claim allowances without performing any service duties, undermining the integrity of the scheme.

The NSA's new centralised management system, which enables real-time verification and traceable banking records, was instrumental in detecting the irregularities.

The investigation involved cross-checking student lists with records from the National Identification Authority (NIA) and the NSA's online registration portal, identifying discrepancies in names, dates of birth, and Ghana Card verification details.

Ms Sedoh emphasised that the NSA is committed to eliminating ghost names and payroll fraud, and will continue to monitor the system, prosecute offenders, and implement reforms to prevent future irregularities.

She urged service personnel to report suspicious activity and reminded stakeholders that participation in the National Service Scheme is a civic obligation and legal responsibility.

The NSA has also written to the Office of the Presidency to ensure institutions adhere to their allocated service quotas, warning that organisations rejecting personnel without valid reasons may face sanctions, including exclusion from future postings.