The Ghanaian oil and gas business Springfield Exploration
and Production Limited (SEP) has categorically refuted Petraco Oil Business
SA's allegations of fraud. Springfield referred to the accusations as
"false and unfounded" in a statement issued Monday. Petraco allegedly
filed a petition with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), which is
the source of the allegations.
According to Springfield, these charges are a
misrepresentation of a business disagreement that is currently being
arbitrated. A $100 million facility deal signed on February 7, 2023, is at the
heart of the dispute. Petraco gave Springfield an initial $50 million as part
of this agreement. Springfield offered to charge 10% of its issued shares as
security. Despite only partially disbursing the stipulated funds, Petraco
registered its interest over the whole 10%. Springfield contends that this
behaviour is in violation of their contract.
Springfield stressed that before executing the contract,
Petraco carried out extensive due diligence. In-depth legal and technical
analyses of Springfield's business practices and assets—particularly its
ownership of Ghana's West Cape Three Points Block 2—were part of this process.
Springfield gave all the information that was required and cooperated
completely. The transaction was not consummated until Petraco was completely
satisfied with the results. Springfield maintains that the statements being
made at this time are not accurate in light of their business partnership.
The business thinks that Petraco's petition and the press
attention that followed are attempts to harm its brand. "The accusations
are completely without merit and should not be regarded as evidence of criminal
conduct," Springfield said. It threatened to file a defamation suit if the
untrue allegations persisted. The business is concerned with preserving its
reputation and making sure the general public is aware of the actual nature of
the conflict. This instance demonstrates the intricacies of business contracts
in the oil and gas sector. Springfield is still optimistic that a fair
resolution will be reached through the arbitration process.
The business is defending itself for the time being,
denouncing Petraco's charges and advising the public to ignore false
information. Springfield's answer demonstrates its dedication to openness and
its resolve to protect its brand from what it perceives to be unfounded
criticism.
SOURCE: https://citinewsroom.com/