Ghana's Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has detained Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South. His lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, disclosed this during an interview on October 1. Atta Akyea expressed concern that his client, a law-abiding citizen and not a flight risk, was detained without prior notice. He stated that EOCO could have asked him to bring Baffour Awuah the next day instead of detaining him.
The detention follows a search of Baffour Awuah's office by EOCO officials, where items unrelated to the investigations, including CCTV footage, were seized. Atta Akyea questioned the charges preferred against his client, suggesting that they did not make sense. He compared the situation to potentially charging SIC Life, implying that the allegations may not be relevant.
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 legislator after he surrendered himself to the antigraft agency. EOCO assured the public that its investigations would progress professionally and independently.
According to EOCO, Baffour Awuah reported to its Head Office in Accra at 10:00 a.m. to assist with ongoing investigations. The agency has been trying to secure his attendance for several months in connection with investigations into alleged criminal conspiracy, financial loss to SIC Savings and Loans, money laundering, and tax-related offences.
EOCO stated that it has commenced applicable investigative and operational procedures and has placed Baffour Awuah under arrest. He is currently cooperating with investigators as the process proceeds. The agency assured the public that it would afford all persons involved their rights under the Constitution and applicable laws.
Atta Akyea described the detention as a "pure show of power," emphasizing that Baffour Awuah is a law-abiding citizen and not a flight risk. He expressed concern that the detention was not necessary, especially since his client was willing to cooperate with the investigations.
The case has garnered significant attention, with many awaiting the outcome of the investigations. EOCO's assurance of a professional and independent investigation has helped to calm public concerns. As the process proceeds, Baffour Awuah's cooperation with investigators will likely play a crucial role in determining the validity of the allegations against him.
Key points
- Baffour Awuah was detained by EOCO officials on October 1.
- The detention follows allegations of criminal conspiracy, financial loss to SIC Savings and Loans, money laundering, and tax-related offences.
- Baffour Awuah's lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, described the detention as a "pure show of power."
