The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed that its investigators attempted to arrest the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, at the High Court complex on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. The attempted arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into the MP's failure to respond to invitations extended to him in February 2026. EOCO officials determined that continuing the operation under the circumstances could pose a risk to public safety, and the arrest was not completed.
According to EOCO, Baffour Awuah had been invited on two occasions in February to engage with investigators but failed to honour the invitations. The anti-corruption agency explained that it subsequently initiated lawful measures to secure his attendance, describing Wednesday's operation as part of the steps taken to advance the investigation. EOCO said its officers were carrying out their statutory duties in connection with the MP's alleged offences.
The situation became increasingly tense during the attempted arrest, leading EOCO officers to discontinue the operation after assessing the circumstances. Two persons were identified as having intervened during the incident and assisted in enabling the MP to leave the scene. EOCO disclosed that the actions of the two individuals were being examined in light of the circumstances recorded in the video footage of the incident.
EOCO further indicated that after completing its assessment, it would take whatever lawful measures it considers appropriate. The agency confirmed that Baffour Awuah later proceeded to the precincts of Parliament, where he reportedly sought sanctuary. Parliament is currently on recess. EOCO said it was mindful of the constitutional privileges and immunities enjoyed by Members of Parliament.
The agency assured the public that its actions would remain within the boundaries of the Constitution and applicable laws. EOCO stressed that being a Member of Parliament does not automatically terminate an investigation or place an individual outside the scope of the law. At the same time, EOCO said it would not undertake any action that conflicts with parliamentary privilege or other constitutional protections applicable to lawmakers.
Investigation into the matter remains ongoing, and EOCO said it would carefully examine the circumstances surrounding Wednesday's incident before determining its next course of action. The agency said available video recordings and other relevant information would form part of its assessment as it considers the appropriate legal steps to take.
The development adds a new dimension to the ongoing investigation involving the Manhyia South MP, with EOCO reiterating that its officers acted in the discharge of their statutory mandate while also acknowledging the constitutional protections applicable to Members of Parliament. EOCO's actions are being closely watched, given the sensitive nature of the case and the MP's status.
Key points
- EOCO attempted to arrest Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah at the High Court complex on September 23, 2026.
- The attempted arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into the MP's failure to respond to invitations extended to him in February 2026.
- EOCO's actions are being closely watched, given the sensitive nature of the case and the MP's status.
