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, as part of an ongoing investigation.
The attempted arrest, which was captured on video by journalists at the scene, was not completed after EOCO officials determined that continuing the operation under the circumstances could pose a risk to public safety.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, EOCO said its officers were carrying out their statutory duties in connection with the MP’s failure to respond to invitations extended to him in February 2026 to assist with an investigation.
The anti-corruption agency explained that Baffour Awuah had been invited on two occasions in February to engage with investigators but failed to honour the invitations.
According to EOCO, it subsequently initiated lawful measures to secure his attendance, describing Wednesday’s operation as part of the steps taken to advance the investigation.
The agency said the situation became increasingly tense during the attempted arrest, leading its officers to discontinue the operation after assessing the circumstances.
Two persons identified
EOCO further disclosed that it had identified two individuals who allegedly intervened during the incident and assisted in enabling the MP to leave the scene.
The office said the actions of the two individuals were being examined in light of the circumstances recorded in the video footage of the incident.
EOCO indicated that after completing its assessment, it would take whatever lawful measures it considers appropriate.
MP seeks refuge at Parliament
The agency also 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 and assured the public that its actions would remain within the boundaries of the Constitution and applicable laws.
The office, however, 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 ongoing
EOCO said investigations into the matter remain ongoing and that 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.
Story by Freedom Etsey Lavoe