The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed that its officers attempted to arrest Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, at the High Court complex premises on Wednesday. The attempted arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into matters related to the MP. According to EOCO, the operation was lawful and in line with their statutory responsibilities.
EOCO stated that the attempted arrest was not completed after officers assessed that further action could have endangered public safety. The situation escalated during the operation, prompting the officers to stop the arrest. The incident was captured on video by journalists present at the scene. The video footage has sparked widespread debate and interest in the case.
The investigation into Baffour Awuah began in February 2026 when he was invited by EOCO to assist with the probe. However, the MP did not honour the invitations. EOCO subsequently took steps to secure his attendance in accordance with the law, which included the attempted arrest on Wednesday. The office described the attempted arrest as part of those steps to ensure the MP's cooperation.
EOCO has identified two persons who allegedly intervened to facilitate the MP's escape during the incident. The agency is assessing the conduct of these individuals based on the circumstances captured in the video. EOCO stated that it would take "such lawful steps as may be appropriate" after its assessment. The identities of the two individuals have not been disclosed.
Following the attempted arrest, Baffour Awuah went to the precincts of Parliament to "seek sanctuary". Although Parliament is currently on recess, EOCO recognised and respected the constitutional privileges and immunities of Members of Parliament. The office stated that it would conduct its operations in accordance with the Constitution and applicable laws.
EOCO emphasised that membership of Parliament did not, by itself, bring an investigation to an end or place an individual "beyond the reach of the law". The office stated that it would not take any action inconsistent with parliamentary privilege or any other protection provided by the Constitution. This suggests that the investigation will continue, despite the MP's status.
The investigation remains active, and EOCO will carefully review the circumstances surrounding Wednesday's incident, including available video evidence, before deciding on its next steps. The office is committed to following due process and ensuring that the law is applied fairly and justly. The outcome of the investigation and any future actions will be closely watched by the public and other stakeholders.
Key points
- The attempted arrest of Baffour Awuah was part of an ongoing investigation into matters related to the MP.
- EOCO officers stopped the arrest after assessing that further action could have endangered public safety.
- The investigation remains active, and EOCO will review the circumstances surrounding the incident before deciding on its next steps.
