The Economic and Organised Crime Office has re-arrested former Chief Executive Officer of the National Food and Buffer Stock Company, Hanan Abdul-Wahab, and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, shortly after a court discharged them following the withdrawal of charges.
The couple had been standing trial alongside others over their alleged involvement in the procurement and supply of food items under the national school feeding programme, in a case linked to an alleged GH¢78 million loss to the state.
Charges withdrawn in court
At proceedings on Tuesday, May 5, the Attorney-General’s Department discontinued the case, citing the emergence of fresh evidence.
Deputy Attorney-General, Justice Srem-Sai, explained that the move was necessary to ensure a fair and speedy trial in line with constitutional provisions.
Following the withdrawal, the court, presided over by Justice Achibonga, struck out the charges, leading to the discharge of all accused persons.
Moments after leaving court, operatives of EOCO moved in to re-arrest Hanan Abdul-Wahab and his wife. Authorities have yet to officially disclose the basis for the new arrest.
The matter has seen prolonged legal disputes, including disagreements over witness statements and objections by the defence regarding the role of an EOCO officer in the prosecution team.
At a previous hearing, the court had directed the Attorney-General’s Department to justify the officer’s involvement.
The re-arrest introduces a new twist to the case and is likely to raise legal questions about procedure, particularly following the discontinuation of charges. Public attention is expected to intensify as further details emerge on the next steps in the investigation.
