The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has issued a statement clarifying its position on a circulating video showing an incident involving its officers and the attempted arrest of Hon. Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, Member of Parliament for Manhyia South.
According to the Office, its officers, acting in the lawful discharge of their statutory responsibilities, attempted to arrest Hon. Baffour Awuah on 23 September 2026 in connection with an ongoing investigation.
EOCO stated that it had previously invited the MP to assist with the investigation on two occasions in February 2026. The invitations were not honoured. The Office said it subsequently took steps to secure his attendance in accordance with the law, and the attempted arrest represented one of those lawful steps.
During the attempted arrest, the situation escalated and the arrest was not successfully completed. Officers assessed that a counter action would have endangered public safety. EOCO said it has identified two persons who, based on the circumstances captured on video, are alleged to have actively intervened to facilitate the escape of the MP. The conduct of these individuals is being assessed and the Office will take such lawful steps as may be appropriate.
EOCO noted that Hon. Baffour Awuah subsequently proceeded to the precincts of Parliament to seek sanctuary, although Parliament is on recess. The Office said it recognises and respects the constitutional privileges and immunities of Members of Parliament and will conduct its operations strictly within the Constitution and applicable laws.
For the avoidance of doubt, EOCO emphasised that membership of Parliament does not by itself bring an investigation to an end or place an individual beyond the reach of the law. At the same time, the Office will not take any step that is inconsistent with parliamentary privilege or any other protection provided by the Constitution.
The Office further assured the public that the investigation remains active. EOCO said it will carefully review the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the available video evidence, to guide the next steps.
EOCO stated that it remains determined to discharge its statutory responsibilities while respecting the Constitution, the rule of law and the institutional privileges of Parliament.
The statement was signed by the Head of Corporate Affairs and Public Education for the Executive Director and dated 23 September 2026.
