A former Goldman Sachs Group Inc. banker, Berko, went on trial Tuesday for allegedly paying government officials in Ghana a "holy rain" of bribes to secure a lucrative power plant deal for a client.

Prosecutors allege that Berko orchestrated a systematic bribery scheme targeting high-ranking Ghanaian officials. The "holy rain" characterization reflects what authorities describe as an extensive and sustained pattern of corrupt payments designed to ensure favorable treatment for the power project.

The case centers on a significant energy infrastructure contract that would have provided substantial revenue for Goldman Sachs and its client. Berko's role as a senior banker placed him in a position to influence the deal's trajectory through illicit means.

The trial marks a significant enforcement action by U.S. authorities against foreign bribery involving a major Wall Street institution. The outcome could have implications for how financial institutions monitor and prevent corruption in emerging market transactions.