Lawyer Atta Akyea, representing Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has expressed concerns over his client's detention by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). In an interview on TV3's Ghana Tonight, Atta Akyea described the detention as an "embarrassing power play" and argued that investigators have not provided a convincing reason for keeping Baffour Awuah in custody. He questioned the legitimacy of the detention, especially given Baffour Awuah's cooperation with the investigation.
According to Atta Akyea, the legal team sought clarification from EOCO officials on the basis for the detention but did not receive a satisfactory explanation. He stated that the detention is "counterintuitive" and difficult to reconcile with the principles of the rule of law. Atta Akyea further questioned whether there was any legitimate basis to keep the MP in custody, particularly given his cooperation with the investigation.
Baffour Awuah's detention followed a search of his office by EOCO officials, during which items unrelated to the investigation, including CCTV footage, were seized. Atta Akyea also criticized the charges preferred against the MP, suggesting that they do not make sense. At the time of publication, Baffour Awuah remained in EOCO custody and had not been released on bail.
EOCO had urged the public to allow its officers to conduct investigations into allegations against Baffour Awuah without speculation. In a press statement dated October 1, the agency confirmed the arrest of the MP after he surrendered himself to assist with ongoing investigations. EOCO assured the public that its investigations would progress professionally and in accordance with due process.
According to EOCO, Baffour Awuah reported to its Head Office in Accra at approximately 10:00 a.m. to assist with investigations into alleged criminal conspiracy, financial loss to SIC Savings and Loans, money laundering, tax-related offences, and other related matters. The Office said it has commenced applicable investigative and operational procedures and has placed Baffour Awuah under arrest.
Atta Akyea expressed concerns that the detention may be intended to intimidate or hinder Baffour Awuah's ability to participate in the investigation. He emphasized that the detention is not in line with the principles of the rule of law and called for a more transparent and accountable approach to the investigation.
The situation surrounding Baffour Awuah's detention remains unresolved, with the MP still in EOCO custody. The outcome of the investigation and any potential charges against him will likely have significant implications for his role as a Member of Parliament and the broader public's perception of the rule of law in Ghana.
Key points
- - Lawyer Atta Akyea criticizes EOCO's detention of Baffour Awuah as a "power play" rather than a lawful action. - Baffour Awuah's detention followed a search of his office by EOCO officials, during which items unrelated to the investigation were seized. - EOCO's investigation into Baffour Awuah is focused on alleged criminal conspiracy, financial loss to SIC Savings and Loans, money laundering, and tax-related offences.
